It all starts with the sound: Ping! Crack! Thwack! Then you see the impact of the sound: Something struck your windshield and left its imprint.
When you finally inspect the cracked windshield, one question arises: Can I get this repaired, or do I need to replace it with a new one? The answer may not be as apparent as you might think! That’s why, In this blog, we’ll address these and other questions as we discuss whether you need windshield repair or windshield replacement. Keep reading!
However, before we get into the meat of the matter, you must understand the difference between Windshield Replacement and Windshield Repair.
What is Windshield Repair?
When the damage to a windshield is minor, it is typically a replacement necessity. Repairing a chip or minor crack restores the windshield or auto glass’s structural stability while restoring the original visibility. A cracked windshield is easy to fix using a variety of techniques. Most professionals, however, prefer to use the windshield resin technique.
Firstly, the auto glass technicians must clean up the area where the damage occurred and remove all the debris that could have clung to it. After cleaning the site, the technician will inject a clear resin into the chip or crack. This process involves applying pressure on the surface of the windshield’s outer layer. The professionals heat the area to help the resin harden quickly. When heat comes into contact with the resin, it expands slightly and fills the crack’s gaps. Proper resin filling is critical because it prevents the damage from spreading to other areas in the future.
When done correctly according to your safety concerns, a repair can eliminate the faulty appearance of the windshield and restore the glass to its original smoothness.
What is Windshield Replacement?
A windshield replacement entails completely removing the damaged windshield and installing a new one.
A windshield replacement is a much more detailed procedure with many steps than a repair. A glass technician carefully moves from one stage to the next, eventually installing a brand-new windshield in the proper position. Professionals must remove several pieces of hardware, old adhesive gaskets, and so on before installing the car’s windshield. After trimming and cleaning, the technician applies the new bonding agent, replaces the gasket, and then carefully and precisely installs the new auto glass.
Like a repair, a windshield replacement necessitates skills and expertise to complete the task. A qualified technician has experience installing window glass and windshields on all vehicle makes and models. Professionals ensure that the new auto glass does not leak.
To install a new windshield properly, the technician must use the proper equipment and tools and complete each step correctly. For example, an expert technician is proficient in utilizing a urethane glue gun to apply the new bonding agent at the proper temperature. If the process gets done correctly and the materials and tools are of better quality, the windshield replacement will be flawless.
However, problems will start to arise as soon as you get back on the road. Improper or poor glass installation could endanger drivers’ and passengers’ lives. That is why it is critical to have the replacement done by a professional so it never spoils your vehicle’s resale value.
How to Determine Whether You Need a Repair or Replacement
Even though a repair is less expensive, according to cost comparison, it is not always the best option for the structural integrity of your vehicle and the safety concerns of its passengers. That is why it is best to rely on the expertise of a professional to decide if a repair will be adequate or replacement will be necessary.
A technician closely examines the chipped or cracked car window glass to determine the best action.
- Size of the Damage Area
The size of the damage or crack is the one that requires the most attention during the inspection. The extent of the damage usually assists the technician in determining whether a repair or a complete replacement is the best option. If the crack is large, it will be challenging to repair. If the damage is more minor than that, the technician can fix it.
- Location of the Damage
Where on the windshield is the crack or chip? The location of the damage is essential in determining whether it is better to repair it or replace the windshield entirely.
Repairing the damage is not better if the crack is small but directly in the line of sight. In many cases, the crack in the windshield occurs at the corner of the glass. If this is the case, a repair will not restore the structural stability of the windscreen, necessitating a replacement. Likewise, the best solution will depend on what is causing the problem.
- Depth
Another factor in determining whether to repair or replace is the extent of the damage. Even if a chip is less than an inch wide, it can leave a crater in your windshield. Your windshield has three layers. If the object makes it through them all, a replacement windshield is essential. The same goes for a hole that measures more than 3/8 inch.
- Amount of Damage
Depending on the severity of the impact, the windshield may crack or chip in a single location or multiple locations simultaneously. It is repairable if the damage is minor and limited to a single area. When the windshield has more than one chip, a repair is out of the question. Even if repaired, two or three chips will reduce the glass’s original stability. A lack of structural strength can cause auto glass to shatter during a crash or collision. To stay safe on the road, never settle for a repair when a complete glass replacement is necessary.
Safety Comes First And Foremost.
When repairing or replacing a broken windshield, always consider safety concerns. Whether you want auto glass services or a windshield replacement and repair service, no matter what service you want. Always seek the services of skilled auto glass technicians to repair or replace your broken windshield.
Never compromise your safety on the road just to save a few dollars.