Auto Glass Replacement and Repair
Fix or Replace a Cracked or Damaged Car Windshield?
A cracked windshield is by far the most common problem related to car glass damage. One of the main functions of the windshield is to protect the driver and passengers from road debris that could otherwise cause serious harm. When a vehicle is moving at a high rate of speed, even the smallest of rocks can cause the glass to chip or fracture.
Repairing a Cracked Car Windshield
Chipped glass will often turn into a crack. Even the smallest of cracks will usually continue to grow overtime as the vehicle is driven. As the car is driven the glass will continue to flex along with every bump in the road, causing the fracture to worsen. Extreme weather driving conditions and fluctuations in temperatures will also increase the chances of windshield damage.
Once a chip or crack is detected, it’s important to have it repaired before it gets to large to repair. Once the fracture gets to a certain size, it can no longer be repaired and the glass must be replaced. Replacing a windshield is considerably more expensive than repairing it. The insurance company may pay for a replacement but there could be a deductible involved, as well as a chance of increased insurance rates.
Most auto glass companies that replace glass will also fix chips and small cracks. There are also glass repair kits that can be found on the Internet or some local auto parts stores. Performing a self-repair by purchasing a kit on the Internet could result in savings of 50% or better.
Auto Glass Replacement – Getting the Best Deal
The auto glass business is very competitive. If the windshield or window glass needs to be replaced, it’s best to contact at least three local auto class companies to get the best price. Since auto glass is very competitive, some may be willing to negotiate. Before contacting an auto glass company, the following information will be required.
- Vehicle year
- Vehicle make (i.e. Ford)
- Vehicle model (i.e. Fusion 4-door sedan)
- Glass section (i.e. windshield, left rear door)
- Color of tint if tinted
Most new car dealerships do not install glass. If a new car dealer needs glass replaced they usually sublet the work to an auto glass company.
Methods to Help Preventive Auto Glass Damage
Most car glass damage, other than a windshield, is usually caused by an accident or an act of vandalism. To help avoid windshield damage while driving, don’t drive directly behind large trucks, especially construction trucks and cement trucks. These types of trucks often have loose debris fall off from the truck body that could fly up and hit the windshield.
A wind deflector or bug shield that’s mounted on the hood of the vehicle can help deflect road debris. As the vehicle is driven, the airflow is directed upwards. A wind deflector will help push road debris upwards and over the top of the vehicle roof. Using the best type of wiper blades for the seasons is also an important consideration for safety and windshield maintenance.
The car’s windshield actually helps support the roof of the vehicle. By allowing a crack to enlarge, it could compromise the strength of the roof. This could be a serious safety concern during a vehicle rollover. For safety reason and for the sake of the pocket book, make sure that even the smallest of chips or cracks are repaired ASAP.
Windshield Replacement or Repair
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Auto Glass - Repair Cracks and Chips
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