Even with more and more people working out of the home, many of us still rely on our vehicles to get us where we want to go. Whether for travel, business, or simply enjoying a ride on a beautiful day, our vehicles are still a very important part of our daily lives. So when they’re damaged, it can be frustrating, annoying, and a little confusing when it comes to dealing with the repairs—especially when the damage involves glass.
Deciding whether you should repair or replace damaged auto glass can be a little tricky. Check out the options below so you can determine which one is best, and least expensive, for you.
What To Do About a Damaged Windshield
If your windshield is damaged, the first step is to assess the damage. Is the windshield chipped, cracked, or worse? Cracks that are more than three inches long and chips that are close to a half-inch wide usually require windshield replacement to protect the structural integrity of the glass and the safety of the car’s occupants. Contact a local glass professional like Glass Doctor.
—they can answer any questions you have and file all the necessary paperwork with your insurance company to get your windshield replacement claim processed correctly.
Chips less than a half-inch should be repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage. It doesn’t take long for a relatively small crack or chip to worsen and turn into a bigger problem. Even if you think the damage is minor, it’s best to get it checked and repaired by an auto glass professional quickly.
A windshield replacement will most likely be needed if the damaged area obstructs the driver’s view. Although the obstruction may seem minor at first glance, it can be a lot more problematic when you’re driving in rainy weather, at night, or both. A chipped windshield can also damage your windshield wipers if left unrepaired for an extended period.
Related Topic: Dangers of a Cracked Windshield
When deciding if you need to have your windshield repaired or replaced, consider these three factors:
- Size: There are a few exceptions, but chips larger than 3/8 inch and cracks longer than three inches generally require windshield replacement.
- Location: Cracks that splinter all the way to the edge of the windshield typically require replacement, due to their tendency to spread quickly. Chips or cracks directly in the driver’s line of vision require replacement as well, since a repaired crack often doesn’t cure clearly, leaving a slight outline in the repair area which could impair the driver’s vision.
- Timespan: The longer you leave chips and cracks unaddressed, the more likely dirt will build up. Dirt accumulation inside a crack or chip makes it difficult to perform a successful repair, which makes windshield replacement the better option.
Related Topic: Can You Install a Windshield Yourself?
What To Do About a Broken Window
When a window in your vehicle is broken, it can leave you feeling very vulnerable. A broken window can expose the inside of your vehicle to the elements and leave you feeling less secure about where you park. So you should schedule a window replacement as quickly as possible to avoid any further damage.
- Driver Side Windows: Driver side windows are vital to the safe operation of your vehicle. Without an uninhibited driver side window, your vehicle is unsafe to drive. A break to this window can allow debris and weather to enter your vehicle and impair your ability to operate the vehicle safely.
- Passenger Windows: Passenger windows aren’t just important for the comfort of your passenger, but also for safety. For example, the clarity of your front passenger window is vital when it comes to using your passenger side mirror to change lanes or turn. If your ability to see clearly is obstructed in any way, it can be dangerous.
- Sunroofs and Moonroofs: A shattered or damaged sunroof or moonroof can cause further damage to your vehicle by allowing water, dirt, or debris to enter the vehicle. This can lead to even more expensive repairs to the interior of your vehicle.
- Quarter Glass: You know that small piece of glass found behind the doors and above the rear wheel of your vehicle? It's actually called quarter glass, or a valance window. It might not seem like a big deal, but if the quarter glass in your vehicle is broken it could lead to bigger, more expensive problems. So, it’s best to get the repair or replacement done as soon as possible.
- Power Window Regulators: Modern vehicle windows are controlled by a mechanism called a “power window regulator.” Unfortunately, power window regulators do fail from time to time. A power window that’s stuck in a partially open or down position presents the same problems as a broken window and should be repaired as soon as possible. The good news? Your local Glass Doctor professionals can replace the power window regulators in your car doors.
Leave the Final Decision to the Experts
Our vehicles are still a very important part of our daily lives. We rely on them to get us where we want to go, and get us there safely. When the glass in our vehicle is broken it can be annoying, inconvenient, and dangerous if left unrepaired. Deciding whether you should repair or replace damaged auto glass is a decision you should leave to experts. The professionals at Glass Doctor are expert glass specialists trained and experienced to access, repair, and replace, if needed, your damaged or broken auto glass.
All work is guaranteed and, with the windshield protection plan, you’re covered for unlimited repairs and one replacement for up to 12 months. Call, or schedule an appointment with the auto glass pros at Glass Doctor today.