What You Should Know About Windshield Repair and Replacement

What You Should Know About Windshield Repair and Replacement

In today’s vehicles, a lot of attention is being paid to lightweight glass so that improved fuel mileage can be achieved. While this purpose is fulfilled, the employed glass is more prone to damages.

If your windshield is also damaged, here is what you need to know before you decide between a repair and replacement. Once you do, you can easily contact any reputed company that offers auto glass replacement in Van Nuys.

Reasons for Treating Damaged Windshields

A chipped windshield can incur many problems, which is why you should deal with it at the earliest. According to studies, 90% of chipped windshields crack within a time span of three years. In most cases, this happens when you do not expect, which becomes even more problematic, especially if you are driving at that time.

A windshield also makes your driving safer by ensuring that all airbags are properly deployed. It also helps you in maintaining the structural integrity of your vehicle. All these factors make it all the more important to repair damaged windshields.

Deciding between Repair and Replacement

Deciding between a windshield repair and replacement depends on the extent of damage and the site where the crack has occurred. For small cracks that are the size of a pebble and three inches in length, a repair is a fairly good option. If the crack is any bigger or longer, you should go for a replacement. There are many companies which offer auto glass replacement in Van Nuys and you can avail their services at an affordable rate, provided you opt for an OEE glass.

The Procedure

The first step in windshield repair is to create a vacuum over the cracked area so that air can be eliminated. Then moisture is extracted from the damaged area. A special tool is used to inject a resin into the crack, which penetrates it and fills up the spaces. The vacuum is then removed and ultraviolet light is applied to the treated area so that the resin is hardened in place. The windshield is then polished for clarity and strength.

In a replacement process, the windshield is completely taken off along with the seal. A new windshield is installed in place.

Average Duration

Generally, a windshield repair lasts for around thirty to forty five minutes. However, you will not be able to use the car for longer periods of time because you may not instantly get an appointment with an auto dealer.

As for replacement, the process itself takes about an hour. However, the adhesive takes some time to dry until which you will not be able to use the car.