A cracked or chipped vehicle windshield is certain to be unsafe, annoying, and impair the driver’s visibility. The most effective repair method helps with restoring the windshields structural integrity and costs less than a full replacement. And since the specialized glass technicians are highly skilled, the repair work is completed with a short timeframe, often within half an hour.
Prior to the emergence of the latest repair techniques and modern technology, damage to the windshield meant almost certain replacement. But that is no longer necessary, it is now possible to save a chipped or cracked windshield without much expense. However, even the latest techniques for glass repair have its limits, so significant damage is still likely to need replacement.
Is it possible to repair the windshield of have it replaced?
Cracked windshield repair or complete replacement is entirely dependent on the severity, location, and size of damage. Most of the repair shops are equipped to repair cracks or chips in the region of three to six inches in length. A larger sized crack might be recommended for full replacement.
However, the more qualified automotive glass specialists using the latest repair techniques are often able to repair the cracks up to 24 inches. Since the repair shops vary significantly, it often helps to shop around the local facilities to make sure you’re able to get the windshield repairs completed at the most cost-effective price possible.
An aspect that determines the ability to save the windshield relates to the actual location of the chip or crack. A crack close to the outer edge of the windshield is more likely to spread within a short period which is certain to have a negative impact of the structural integrity of windshield. If repairs are completed quickly, it might be possible to complete the repairs; otherwise it is often advised to have the glass replaced in full.
A further issue with the location of damage concerns those chips in direct line of the driver’s vision. Since the repair technique often leaves a slight distortion in the windshield, a lot of repair facilities prefer to have the glass replaced and not risk compromising the driver’s field of vision.
Irrespective of the location or size of the damage to the windshield, it will certainly help to have it repaired as soon as possible. Besides the potential for the crack to get worse with time, there is also the chance of dirt working its way into the damage which can impact the clarity and effectiveness of any future repairs.
What is involved in windshield repair work?
Repairing the glass is a process of injecting a specialized resin into the chip or crack using a specific type of tool that fixes to the windshield. After the resin is injected, it is cured and polished to help with restoring the strength and clarity of the windshield.
In most situations the repair work is likely to look perfect, while in certain situations with the larger or deeper cracks there might be a slight blemish left. Each chip or crack is unique, so certain chips or cracks are sure to respond to the repair techniques better than others. But with the right auto glass repair completed, it is possible to stop the damage from getting any worse and spreading.
Use the right auto glass repair facility to get the work done
If it has become necessary to have the windshield inspected for possible replacement or repair there is a variety of different options available, including:
Auto Glass Specialist – A facility of this type specializes in the replacement or repair of vehicle glass. They are able to assist with working on the rear and side windows, as well as the windshields. Because the automotive glass specialist relies of the latest techniques they often attempt to have the glass repaired before suggesting its replacement.
Windshield Repair Facilities – Most of these national and independent franchised shops are likely to specialize in conducting repairs to the windshield. These shops are highly skilled at fixing the minor cracks and chips, but aren’t likely to offer a replacement windshield service.
New Vehicle Dealership – A local vehicle dealership is likely to offer a service to replace the damaged windshield with the equivalent OEM stock. Most of the dealerships sub-contract this type of service to the local cracked windshield repair companies who arrange to complete any repairs on-site.
Mobile Glass Repair Service – Instead of driving to the repair facility for the required work to be completed, a mobile service is able to travel to the exact location of the vehicle – at work or at home – which offers greater convenience.
