Jim's Articles

Windshield auto glass rock chip repair recommendations

Auto glass chip repair recommendations: Auto glass replacement involves removing and replacing your damaged glass with new glass that has been thoroughly tested for safety. In most cases, replacement is the safest way to ensure the structural integrity of the auto glass. When you replace the glass, you’ll typically have to wait a few hours before driving your car to let the urethane used to bond the glass to cure. An auto glass replacement is usually more expensive than an auto glass repair. Many times, if the damage is in the line of sight of the driver shops will recommend that a full replacement take place. Likewise, if a crack is deep enough to penetrate the clear layer of plastic that prevents windshield glass from shattering.

You’re driving down the highway when suddenly – BANG – a rock smacks into the windshield, chipping the glass. You instantly start thinking about repairing or replacing your windshield. Before having either service performed, you must understand what aftercare is required for your safety and positive long-term results. If your windshield is chipped, you may be able to repair it rather than replace it. In general, chips smaller than 3/8 inch and cracks less than three inches long qualify for a repair. The damaged area must also not reach the edge of the windshield or land directly in the driver’s line of sight to be eligible. Read additional details at Automotive Glass Colorado Springs.

If you mess up filling in your windshield chip or crack, it can’t be re-done. There are simple albeit important steps to take during the repair process, and if not followed to a T, you may notice blemishes or opaque spots near the repaired section. At that point, you could be on the hook to buy a new windshield in addition to the repair kit. Only minor window damage like bullseye chips can be corrected with windshield repair kits. Most auto body centers are equipped with professional tools to repair more significant damage, including long windshield cracks, starburst chips, and spiderweb cracks. Cracks and chips near windshield wipers are usually not repairable. These areas, under constant pressure from windshield wipers, are prone to re-crack.

Auto Glass Replacement: No matter your vehicle’s age, we can help you with a complete windshield replacement. Fix Rock Chips: We can fix your rock chip repair within hours and deliver best output possible for better customer satisfaction. Free Mobile Service: We can dispatch a mobile unit or you can visit our main facility and have your repairs done while you wait. Our standards of excellence in customer service, products, and commitment to safety.

“There are a lot of schlock operators” installing windshields, says Debra Levy, president of the Auto Glass Safety Council, which offers certification for installers. She says using original manufacturer’s glass is a plus, but choosing a good installer is even more important. To find a certified shop, visit Safewindshields.org and type your ZIP code into the box at the top of the page. Certification is valuable because it keeps installers up to date on advances in adhesives and changing automotive designs.