The windshield of a vehicle plays an important role in the structural integrity, fuel economy, and aerodynamics of the vehicle. When damaged, it is essential to quickly and correctly complete a windshield repair in order to maintain the performance of the car and the safety of the passengers. Understanding all of the necessary information regarding windshield repair can help car owners make informed decisions before doing any repairs.
First and foremost, it is vital to determine the extent of the damage before beginning a repair job. If the damage includes cracks or stars of the size one has to insert a quarter into the crack, it is best left to a skilled professional. Furthermore, if the crack or star affects the driver’s line of sight, only a professional should do the repair. The glue used for larger damages must have time to set and cure. Therefore, it is best to let a professional determine the severity of the damage by conducting a professional inspection.
Once it has been determined that a repair can be conducted, the best option is to replace the windshield. Windshield replacement or repair should always be done with OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) glass. Aftermarket glass may fit and look the same, but does not have the same chemical and safety properties as OEM glass. Once the correct glass is selected, the sealant between the glass and the car must be clean in order to minimize the chances of a leak. An alcohol-based cleaner will remove any contaminants on the molding before the installation.
Best way to get your windshield repaired
A cracked or chipped windshield requires repair as soon as possible to avoid the need for a full replacement. Repairing a windshield not only serves the driver’s safety but also reduces the chance of further damage and more costly results. There are several different ways to repair a windshield, from do-it-yourself kits to professional services, and the best way to get your windshield repaired properly is to choose the most suitable option for your vehicle and the severity of the damage.
The first option for repairing a windshield is to use an at-home kit. Many windshield chip or crack kits are widely available and come with instructions. This type of repair requires an ability to follow instructions in order to achieve satisfactory results, especially as the kits often provide limited supplies. Kits may be a suitable choice for minor cracks, chips, and bulls-eye damage, though they may not be sufficient to repair larger or more severe damage.
The second, more reliable choice for windshield replacement is to take your car to a professional repair shop. These shops specialize in automotive glass repair and can use advanced techniques and equipment to fix or repair any damage. Many services advertise same-day repairs that don’t require the vehicle to be towed off the premises.
Finally, it is possible to contact the automobile dealership or insurance provider to repair the windshield. If a vehicle is part of an insurance plan, some providers may cover the cost of the repair, depending on the level of coverage. Also, many car dealerships will cover any repair costs related to windshields with a limited warranty.
Conclusion
Having a good understanding of windshield repair is of the utmost importance to any vehicle owner. If a windshield replacement is necessary, it is best to use OEM glass and adhere to the specific specifications of the car. Furthermore, it is essential to use the right tools and a qualified technician in order to ensure that the repair job is done correctly. In doing so, a car will have a structurally sound, safe, and fuel-efficient windshield.
Windshield Repairs 