The damage to a windshield determines whether it needs to be repaired or replaced. Generally speaking, a chip smaller than a dollar bill can be fixed, while a crack that extends into the driver’s vision will require replacement.
The pinch weld must be cleaned before a new windshield can be installed. Then, a bead of urethane is applied to the perimeter. Contact Windshield Replacement Ocala now!
Small chips and pits on your windshield can be repaired rather than replaced, saving you time and money. However, it is important to repair them quickly. If not addressed promptly, these chips can grow and create cracks that may be unrepairable. In addition, delaying chip repair allows dirt to enter the crack and can cause discoloration of your windshield glass.
Windshield chips result from impact from gravel or other debris that is kicked up by the tires of cars ahead of you while you drive. These chips can be very annoying and sometimes dangerous. If left untreated, they can crack your windshield, reducing your visibility while driving and making you more likely to crash your vehicle.
A windshield has two glass pieces with a plastic interlayer sandwiched in between. The impact causes a small divot in the outer layer of glass, which then expands into the interlayer when it hits the air. This creates an air pocket visible as a dark area in the windshield. Over time, temperature changes and pressure on the glass can cause the crack to spread.
When a windshield is repaired, technicians clean the affected area to remove trapped dirt and moisture. Then, they inject a resin into the chipped area to seal it up. The resin is manipulated into the cracks and dried using UV rays. It is important to note that if the cracks are long, they cannot be repaired with a resin injection, and a replacement would need to be considered.
Some pits can be buffed out of the windshield if they are less than an inch in diameter and not in the driver’s primary view area (PDVA). However, delaying these repairs can allow dirt to get into the damaged areas, which makes it harder for the technician to repair them properly. Driving carefully and keeping your car away from harsh environments is a good way to prevent this. Also, do not visit automatic car washes, as the pressure from the washer can exacerbate damage to your windshield.
The main function of a windshield is to protect you from flying debris while driving. But the glass does a lot more than that: It acts as a backboard for airbags, provides structural support in the case of a rollover accident, and supports the mounting area for advanced driver safety features such as lane departure warnings and adaptive cruise control. For these reasons, a crack in your windshield is never good and may make the vehicle unsafe.
It’s not impossible to repair a crack, but it will take a while and can be more expensive than a replacement. The size and placement of the crack is a huge factor in whether or not it can be repaired. In general, if the damage is less than the size of a dollar bill, it can be fixed. Any larger replacement option is likely warranted.
Another important consideration is whether or not the crack is in the line of vision for the driver. This type of damage can impair driving, and in many states, it’s illegal to drive with a cracked windshield.
A third major determinant is whether an impact or a manufacturing defect caused the crack. The latter may result from poor-quality glass, poor bonding, or even defects in the molding process. These defects are often called stress cracks and can be hard to detect without a professional inspection.
If you need clarification on whether or not your crack can be repaired, start by cleaning the area around the break to remove any loose shards of glass and prevent dirt from entering the break. Next, clean the crack with alcohol or solvent to prepare it for the resin. Most repair kits come with a pedestal, a molded plastic piece with an angled tube for easy resin application. Place the pedestal over the crack and apply the adhesive, following the instructions included in the kit. After using the adhesive, squeeze any air bubbles and let them rest for the recommended time before scraping them off with a razor blade for a clean finish.
If you own a classic vehicle, keeping it in mint condition is part of the pride of ownership. This also includes getting any damaged glass repaired or replaced as soon as possible, especially since a windshield can shatter in the event of an accident and trap your passengers inside the car. However, these vehicles’ repair and replacement process can be more complicated than a regular, modern vehicle.
First, there’s the cost of the glass itself. Flat-pane windshields through the ’40s may be easy enough to find in junkyards or at classic car clubs, but a curved windshield for your ’59 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham might only be available from one of three guys in the country willing to take on the job. To be safe, these pieces are expensive and must meet AGRSS (Automobile Glass Research and Standards) specifications.
It’s also important to consider the value of your vehicle. A broken windshield is not only an eyesore; it can detract from your vehicle’s resale value and make it harder to sell or trade-in for a newer model. Even if you plan to sell your classic vehicle before the end of its life, it’s still worth getting any damage fixed so you can keep it looking like new.
Finally, suppose your older car has ADAS (Advanced Driver Assist System) features like a head-up display, rain-sensing wipers, and more. In that case, you must get the right type of windshield to make these safety systems work properly. The sensors that enable these technologies to operate must be housed in a windshield that meets the strict optical clarity and distortion standards set by GM, Mercedes, or whoever manufactures your specific ADAS feature.
Getting your classic or vintage car’s windshield repaired or replaced by an experienced professional is the best way to ensure these expensive and important safety systems continue to work as designed. It’s also a great way to keep your classic car in tip-top shape and add curb appeal when selling or trading it in.
Several newer vehicles come with windshields equipped with technology that can enhance the driver experience. These include windshields that repel water, fog, and dust by utilizing a polarized surface that creates an invisible force field. This function allows drivers to use their air conditioner less, which saves money and reduces carbon emissions.
Another feature of some modern windshields is a heated windshield, which can help prevent the annoying fog that often develops in the winter. This function uses wiring sandwiched between the layers of glass and works much like a rear window heater. The windshield can also be defogged by simply using the recirculation button on your climate system.
Windshield technology is also advancing in terms of its ability to provide drivers with additional information and entertainment options. Many automobile manufacturers now offer head-up displays that project important driving information in a small rectangular area on the windshield. These displays are polarized and are designed to work with the windshield IR-reflective coating.
Other advanced windshield features include electrochromic panels that automatically dim the areas of your windshield most susceptible to blinding glare while driving. This helps to reduce eyestrain and fatigue.
Some modern windshields also incorporate electronic display screens that show important information and warnings to the driver. These electronic screens can also show navigation maps, audio information, and a heads-up image of the vehicle’s dashboard. These screens are a great way for drivers to keep their eyes on the road and away from their smartphones while on the go.
As windshields advance, ensuring that your car’s glass is fully functional and free from damage becomes more important than ever. Fortunately, auto glass specialists are certified by the National Windshield Repairers Association (NWRA) and adhere to the AGRSS (Automotive Glass Replacement Safety Standard). You can rest assured that any windshield installed or replaced by one of these specialists will meet all applicable safety requirements and provide maximum protection while on the road.
