The windshield on your car is a vital part of keeping you and your passengers safe. But what should you do when a rock chip or crack damages it? Should you repair it or replace it? Getting an expert opinion will help you decide what the best course of action is. A professional auto glass technician will be able to determine whether your damaged front windshield can be repaired or should be replaced.
Generally speaking, most chips and cracks can be repaired as long as they are smaller than an inch in diameter. These cracks or chips can be resurfaced with a resin and a smooth surface that will restore the original clarity and strength of the auto glass.
The location of the damage is another factor that can affect whether your windshield can be repaired or needs to be replaced. Any crack or chip that is close to the edge of the Auto glass repair & replacement can worsen rapidly because of the vibrations caused by road debris, speed bumps and dips as well as stress on the windshield from driving over rough terrain. Cracks and chips that are near the frame of your vehicle may also be a safety hazard because they can cause the glass to weaken or become cracked and fragmented.
In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the entire windshield if the damage is severe. This is especially true for any cracks or chips that are located within the driver’s line of vision. Visibility is a major concern for many drivers, and driving a car with a compromised windshield can be extremely dangerous. In fact, driving with a cracked or damaged windshield is illegal in some states.
Auto Glass Repair & Replacement
Luckily, in most cases you will be able to file an insurance claim and pay your deductible for the cost of a new windshield. This is because most auto glass shops are in the network of your car’s insurer and can work directly with them to cover the expense. However, this is not always the case, and there are a number of factors that must be taken into account before filing an insurance claim for a damaged auto glass.
For example, the type of coverage you have on your car and whether you have a full or comprehensive policy will have an impact on how your insurance works in the event that your windshield is damaged. If you have a full coverage policy, this means that the damage will likely be covered by your insurance company even if you are at fault for an accident that led to the breakage.
When you’re ready to repair or replace your windshield, choose a company that uses OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) quality glass. This ensures that the new windshield will be a perfect fit and will offer all of the same safety features as your original windshield. They will also be backed by a lifetime warranty.