5 Things About Windshield Repair You May Not Know

Windshield care is just as important as oil changes and tire rotations, yet it often goes overlooked by many car owners. The windshield sits front and center, is crucial for visibility, and plays a significant role in the structural integrity of your vehicle. In this blog, we'll go over five things about windshield repair that every driver needs to know. Our hope is the content below will put a spotlight on the significance of this vital automotive service. 

1. Not All Damage is the Same: Repair vs Replacement

Some drivers believe that any damage to the windshield requires a full replacement. This is false information. Many minor damages can be repaired effectively. The best way to know the difference is by consulting a professional auto glass repair service. The trained technicians there will know by the size, type, and location of the damage whether it can be repaired or if you need a full replacement. 

In most cases, chips that are smaller than a quarter and cracks that reach less than six inches can be repaired. But, if the damage obstructs the driver’s view you’ll likely need to replace the windshield because it’s too dangerous. Also, if the damage is on the edge of the windshield then you’ll probably need a full replacement because that compromises the structural integrity. 

2. Time is Ticking

When you discover any damage to your windshield, no matter how small, timely action is crucial. Unattended damage can worsen due to several reasons including temperature changes, exposure to moisture, and vibrations from driving. Not only will your repair costs increase, the damage may become bigger, requiring a replacement for a situation where a less costly repair would have sufficed. 

Many reputable auto glass services suggest getting the damage looked at within 24 hours of it happening, or discovery. Some shops offer in-shop and mobile services, which quickens the entire process. Mobile auto glass services are convenient and time-saving. 

3. Structural Integrity is Restored

We keep mentioning structural integrity but what does that mean in regards to windshields? Your windshield does much more than allow you to see in front of you without having wind and dirt fly into your face. Windshields also prevent the top of the vehicle from caving in when there’s an accident. A single chip in the windshield compromises the structural integrity of the entire vehicle. 

When you think about that it makes sense why professionals encourage drivers to not wait long before having a damaged windshield inspected. You are putting yourself and your passengers at risk every day you drive your vehicle with a damaged windshield. 

4. Repair Processes Are Eco Friendly

Because today’s auto glass repair services use advanced methods, they are eco-friendly. The techniques involve sophisticated technology and materials like a resin that is injected into the damaged area. After it hardens and bonds with the glass, they polish it down. The windshield repair process is less wasteful when compared to a full windshield replacement. 

In addition, many repair shops recycle any leftover materials in an attempt to minimize waste. Repairs restore the strength and clarity of your windshield without contributing to the landfill.

5. Mobile Services Can Come Wherever You Are

The nice thing about mobile auto glass repair service is that the technician will come no matter where your vehicle is located. You can be at home, at work, or on vacation. A mobile auto service will come to you so you don’t have to hunt them down in areas you don’t know.

If you’re traveling through somewhere unfamiliar, mobile auto glass services can come to your hotel, campground, AirBnB, and even the side of the road. You won’t have to leave your hotel to sit in a waiting room and your vacation doesn’t need to be disrupted. 

Do YOU NEED A WINDSHIELD Repair in Clearwater or St. Petersburg Areas of FL?

If you need a windshield repair in Clearwater Beach, Holiday, or Madeira Beach areas of Florida, contact us at Tarpon Auto Glass. We’re local, family-owned, and have a slew of certified technicians ready to repair your windshield. As Florida residents we love tourists that come through our state. We want you to feel safe driving the roads and Tarpon Auto Glass can get you back to what matters; your vacation.