A damaged windshield is a major safety issue and must be addressed. Driving with a chipped or cracked windshield puts the life of the driver and passengers at risk. The windshield in modern vehicles does more than keeping the Chicago wind out of the driver’s face; it provides structural support for the roof in the event the vehicle should roll over in an accident. If the windshield is severely damaged, new auto glass must be installed, and it must be installed right. Windshields that have not been installed right can pop out during a collision.
When to Install New Auto Glass
Knowledgeable auto glass technicians can easily repair small chips and cracks. However, if the crack is too long, the only solution is to have a new auto glass installed. If the crack exceeds the length of a dollar bill, chances are it must be replaced.
Although an auto windshield may look like it is a single piece of glass, it is not. A windshield is a complex “sandwich.” Two pieces of glass are bonded to a vinyl core. In the event of a collision, the vinyl material helps to keep the glass from shattering into small shards.
If the chip or crack is of such magnitude that the vinyl binder is damaged, the windshield will not be able to withstand any substantial impact and therefore need replacement.
Auto Glass Replacement
Small chips and cracks can quite easily, and inexpensively, be repaired. However, if the damage is beyond practical repair, the only solution is to install new auto glass.
The replacement process does not take long. Make sure to hire the right professionals that have the skills and the tools to do the job right. If the windshield is not installed properly, the occupants of the vehicle are at risk.
For the best in new auto glass and installation in Chicago, rely on Frank’s Auto Glass. For more information, visit their website.