Windshield Replacement A Few Points to Consider
Does your windshield have a few pits or small cracks? Have you been suspecting that the last time you had a windshield replacement that it was poorly done? If you’re not sure when to replace your windshield, you may be interested in the following windshield replacement tips.
Windshields and Structural Integrity
Were you aware that your car’s windshield provides structural integrity? If someone is in a head-on collision, for example, 45% of the cabin’s structural integrity relies on that windshield being able to withstand the force of the collision. Furthermore, if a car is involved in a rollover crash, 60% of the cabin’s structural integrity depends on that windshield.
Tempered Automobile Glass
In 2015, there was a high demand for tempered glass. This is because it is about four times stronger than the traditional glass used for car windows. When tempered glass shatters, the pieces aren’t sharp or jagged. In other words, this glass is much safer to have in a vehicle. If your windshield isn’t made of tempered glass, then you may want to consider replacing it with a new tempered glass windshield.
Tinted Versus Untinted Automobile Glass
Untinted glass allows ultraviolet light to pass through the windows. When automobile glass is tinted, however, 3.8 times less ultraviolet light will enter a vehicle. In addition to providing more protection from the sun, this can also reduce glare. If you currently have untinted windows, you may want to consider replacing them with tinted ones.
The Unpredictability of Glass
Since glass is unpredictable, even small imperfections can potentially spread at any time. In these instances, the windshield may not be repairable. Furthermore, since the windshield provides approximately 35% of a car’s structural integrity, it’s important to replace it in order to maintain this integrity.
Even though a small imperfection may spread at any time, it’s not unusual to have a rock chip for ten years. However, you could sustain another rock chip that could become a two foot long crack in less than an hour.
The Repair of Laminated Automotive Glass Standard recommends replacing windshields when the damage is within the driver’s line of sight. This is taking into consideration that the damaged area is over an inch in diameter. When the damaged area is three inches or more wide, then it would be a good idea to replace the windshield.
Visit Your Auto Glass Repair Service
When in doubt, it’s a good idea to visit your local windshield repair service. At this time, you will be able to learn more about your windshield replacement options. Given that a 2007 report indicated that nearly 80% of auto glass replacements weren’t handled correctly, it’s important to visit a reputable auto glass repair service.