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Glaring you right in the face is a crack in your windshield that has spidered from a pit caused by the tiniest pebble you ever saw, hurled at your car by the wheels of the 18-wheeler on the interstate in front of you. That little rock caused cracks to spread in three different directions, one of which is now effectively blocking your vision, and the other two are reminders of such a mundane incident that is now a big deal. This is when you take notice and decide to intervene. This is when you begin thinking about what you should do, and not do. You have a few options — you can ignore it and move on with your life, looking through broken glass and sporting an eyesore that makes passersby do a double take for all the wrong reasons. Or, you could find the nearest auto glass repair shop and make an appointment before things get worse. Not to worry; in this two-part series, our glass experts offer a few dos and don’ts of windshield repair. Today’s post features the things you should do; let’s jump in.
Windshield replacement seems simple enough — call the glass guys and have them swap it out, right? It is that easy. However, there are several things you’ll want to avoid and a list of things you’ll need to ensure. Here’s a solid list of things you’ll want to do for windshield repair.
All windshield damage is not created equally. Before any decisions are made as to what to do or which interventions make the most sense, the full extent of the damage should be determined. Minor scratches and pits may only require a repair, whereas most extensive damage will require a full windshield replacement. Since damage can significantly change and intensify rather quickly, it’s important to get a professional assessment right away. What may look like a hairline crack today may quickly leave you with an edge-to-edge canyon if intervention isn’t established now.
Generally, a crack that is less than the size of a dollar bill and more shallow than the top one-third of your glass, can be repaired. If the crack is larger in size or deeper, the window will need to be replaced and a new windshield installed. Verification of the extent of damage is an absolute must.
Once the damage in the windshield of your car has been fixed, whether, with the repair or complete windshield replacement, you should drive the vehicle carefully for the first 24 hours after leaving the glass repair shop.
The initial 24 hours after window damage repair are crucial to the success of long-term glass condition. To optimize the outcome, you should remain vigilant and protect your car’s windshield during the curing period. To help promote glass support, you should avoid bumpy or gravel roads, avoid slamming doors and prevent external trauma to the best of your ability. Parking in a garage or a covered area is advisable.
After the chip or crack in your car’s auto glass has been repaired, you should take some steps to avoid similar damages in the future. One of these ways to promote prevention is to change your driving routes. We don’t want to go as far as to say “once a glass breaker, always a glass breaker,” but if the route you normally take leads to window damage — i.e. there is construction in the area, it’s a gravel road, etc. — it may be a good idea to avoid the route for a bit and find a smoother, less dangerous way. We suggest trying routes that have slower speed limits and are well-lit to prevent intentional damage in the first few days. If you want to resume your regular route once the glass has settled, that’s up to you, but take note of debris being hurled at your window and do your best to avoid it when you can.
Successful windshield repair must include the use of high-quality resin and allows time for the resin to properly cure. Windshield resin requires approximately 15 to 20 minutes to thoroughly cure. During this time, it is extremely important not to expose the windshield to high temperatures, cold, or moisture. If the resin does not completely cure, it can cause swelling and a poor seal, which may allow wind and moisture in or lead to molding or dislodging of the window.
Proper resin cure is not the responsibility of the average driver but is something to be aware of as far as expectations of timeline are concerned. While most windshield replacements can be completed in about an hour, the resin cure should not be rushed. You’ll also want to take the curing resin into consideration over the next 24 to 48 hours to prevent damage.
Fixing broken auto glass is not something that you can deal with on your own, nor do you want to trust just any auto repair shop in your neighborhood. Whether it is glass repair or windshield replacement, skill and precision are paramount. Your technician needs to know the latest techniques and how to use the tools of the trade to fix the problem and prevent further damage.
Jet Black Tint and Glass is the Bay Area’s top-rated local auto glass repair shop and the number-one choice for new windshield installation. Our certified glass technicians have loads of experience in windshield repair and replacement. With the expert help of our auto glass team, you’ll drive off with a window you can see through safely, at a price that won’t break the bank. We have the most current model windshields in stock and can usually fit our windshield replacement customers in with same-day appointments. Your safety matters to us!
As long as you follow this simple guide and stick to these “dos,” of windshield repair, you can count on a windshield that will last for years.
To help further support your new windshield, stay tuned for part two as we discuss some things you should avoid during new windshield installation. For any immediate concerns or to schedule your windshield repair, find the Jet Black Tint location nearest you and book your appointment today!