Replacing cracked or chipped windshields is essential. If you are in need of windshield replacement there are a few things you should know. This will help you to get the results you are looking for.
The Windshield Replacement Process
The first thing you should know is how the process works. While it may seem like an all day affair, it can generally be completed in under an hour. This is because the company will simply have to remove the plastic holding the windshield in and then cut the urethane. From there the company simply needs to prime the vehicle for the new windshield to go in. Once the car and glass have been primed, the new one can be put in and glued in place with urethane.
One of the biggest issues people make with this is assuming that they can do this entire process on their own. The problem with this is that it is very detailed work. Getting the windshield in perfect alignment with the vehicle alone can be hard, but is essential for a good seal. With this, you should keep in mind that the glass can get heavy and is easily broken if it is not handled properly. There are many things that can go wrong when you try to do the windshield on your own.
The best thing you can do with windshield replacement is leave it to the professionals. These people have the right tools and are experts at installing windshields. They can usually complete the process in anywhere from half an hour to an hour. You will have the peace of mind to know that the job is completed properly as well. When you compare the thought of having to buy a second windshield to replace one that breaks while trying to do your own windshield, it is easy to see why a windshield replacement company is worth it.
Windshield Chip Repair- An Option to Keep in Mind
A common misconception with people is that when the windshield is cracked, it needs to be replaced. The truth of the matter is that sometimes this can simply be filled. This will be dependent on how large and deep the chip is as well as if it has started to crack.
With these services all the technician does is uses a special epoxy material to fill the hole. When completed it is very difficult, if not impossible, to tell where the chip had been in the first place. This will give the structural support in the glass that is needed and not disrupt the driver’s view of the road.
You do not want to try to do this on your own either. There are products that you can buy for do it yourself windshield crack repair. The problem with these products is that they do not have the same strength as what the professional products have. This means they will not give the same structural integrity that a professional sealer will. With this, it is also still possible to see the original crack as it usually leaves the windshield with a discoloration or beveled appearance, which is not desirable. You also have to make sure you use it properly, which can be tricky.
Why You Need Windshield and Auto Door Glass Replacement
Another thing that you should know with this is why it is important to get your windshield and auto door glass replacement done right away. There are a few things to keep in mind about the windshield.
The most important thing to realize is that the windshield is essential to the structure of the vehicle. Just as you are not safe driving in a vehicle with a damaged frame, a damaged windshield can be just as dangerous. You want to make sure that all the structural aspects in any vehicle are as safe as possible.
You should also know that it is illegal to drive around with a cracked windshield. In some states you can get cited simply for having a chip in the windshield. There are two reasons for this. One it is unsafe in the event of an accident. The other is that it can interfere with your ability to see properly while driving. The cost of this ticket will vary depending on where you live. However, this is not something you want to pay since this money can go to the windshield or auto door glass replacement.
The longer you put off getting the repair done, the worse the problem will be. You may start out with a chip that can be filled without any issues. If you put this off, then this can turn into a crack and become large enough that it cannot be fixed with repair, but will need a complete replacement. This is not something you want to have happen and is the main reason to get the problem taken care of right away.
As a final thought, depending on where you live and the type of auto insurance you have, the replacement or repair can cost you little or nothing out of your pocket. Some states require that insurance companies offer windshield repair and replacement in their policies. You may find that the policy you have can be used for this as well. However, you will need to speak with your insurer to see if this is an option.
Whether you are in need of windshield or auto door glass replacement, this is not something that can wait. You do not want to put your family in danger driving in the vehicle. This can be done quickly and easily by a professional and is worth the investment.
