The front of any vehicle takes a lot of abuse, the body and the windshield is subject to being peppered with grit, stones and other debris found on the road surface. It can be maddening when a stone bounces off the body work, leaving a chip out of the paint, it can be downright dangerous when a stone impacts the windshield and causes a crack or chip. A crack or chip in a windshield can not only obstruct your view; but it can also quickly enlarge to the point where it impacts the integrity of the vehicle structure. Many people are unaware that Chicago auto glass is far more than just protection from the elements; it is an integral part of what gives the occupants protection in the even o a rollover accident.
A chip does not mean automatic glass replacement:
Chicago auto glass has not always been laminated; there was a time when any damage to the windshield meant automatic replacement. Today, windshields can be repaired, as long as the circumstances are right, this can save time and money.
Replace or repair?
Whether the windshield can be repaired or whether it will have to be replaced depends on the extent of the damage and the location. Chicago auto glass repair shops can comfortably deal with chips about the size of a quarter and cracks no longer than three inches.
Even if the damage is in that range, where it also plays a big part in determining the next step. If the crack is right at the edge of the windshield, it can spread quickly, in a case like this the best and safest approach is to replace it.
If the chip is in the driver’s line of vision, most windshield repair shops recommend complete replacement. It is not that the chip cannot be repaired it is because even the best repair leaves minor distortions in the glass which will impair the driver’s vision.
Chicago auto glass, when damaged must be either repaired or replaced for the sake of safety. For either windshield repair or replacement, you are invited to visit Frank’s Auto Glass.
