When I noticed a few chips in the windows of my home, I didn't worry too much about how it would affect anything. Instead, I mainly focused on how it made my home look, and I secretly cursed the unsightly damage. However, those small chips began to grow until there were large cracks. After having that experience, I decided to dedicate myself to spreading the word about the problems associated damaged glass. Read this blog to find out how damaged glass could affect you and your family members.
Understanding The Dangers of Damaged Glass
Repairing Damage To The Glass In Your Car Or Truck
Maëlyne Fleury
The glass in your car or truck is susceptible to damage from an of things. Rocks, road debris, or falling tree limbs are are hazards that could cause a crack or chip in the glass that you will need to have repaired. Over the last decade, repairing front or rear windows has become more common. Today a chipped windshield is more likely to be repaired than it is to be replaced.
Repair Or Replace?
There are a few things to consider when you decide to repair the windshield or rear window. The first is the size of the crack. Chips are easily repaired, but once a crack has started, there is a limit to the size that can be successfully repaired. While there are companies offering a large crack repair in windshields and rear windows, the general rule of thumb is a crack that is 6-inches or smaller can be repaired quickly and easily. Most Auto glass companies recommend that you replace the glass if the crack is larger than that. Chips that are in the driver's line of site, total more than three on the same glass, or are on the edge of the glass are not recommended for repair.
Scheduling A Repair
If you have determined that the chip is small and outside your line of site, you can call your local auto glass company and ask if they offer glass repair. Not all companies do but most are doing it these days. Many glass companies even offer mobile repair so they will come to you. The advantage is that they can repair the glass while you are working or at home. The weather may influence the repair schedule but in most cases, if you can bring the car to them, they can working inside a warm, dry garage.
Consider the Installer's Recommendations
If the glass installer arrives and inspects the glass, he may make a recommendation that the glass is replaced because of the size, location, or quantity of chips in the glass. If you are unsure, consider what he says then get a second opinion from another glass shop. It is okay to question what you are being told but get a few people to look at the glass before you spend the money on an entirely new piece of glass. On a windshield that can be hundreds of dollars that you will have to spend.
Side Window Glass
The side window glass can only be replaced, not repaired. The glass is safety glass, but it is not lamination the same way as the front and rear. In fact, it is designed to break into a bunch of small balls that are less likely to injure you or anyone it. You will need to replace that glass manually. If you don't know how to replace it, get the car into the glass shop for a repair.
Contact a company like Becky's Glass Works for more information and assistance.
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