Complete Windshield Replacement:
There is a big difference between windshield repair and windshield replacement. These differences dictate what kind of car windshield work you need and how the technician will complete the job. For example, a tiny chip in the windshield does not warrant a total windshield replacement (although some consumers may request it). The following should help clarify these differences and how they affect your choices with regards to windshield replacement.
Chips and Small Cracks
Chips and small cracks in your windshield are easily repaired by using a couple of different techniques, the most common of which is the utilization of glass crack filler. The filler not only fills the crack or chipped area, but also acts as a powerful adhesive and preventive to keep the windshield from further damage. After the filler is used, the technician uses a glass sanding/buffing machine to make the glass very smooth and the repaired area almost unrecognizable.
Large Cracks and Total Replacement
This is where total windshield replacement is necessary. The cracks in your windshield spread at least a quarter of the way across the height or width of the windshield. Because of the potential for these cracks to continue splitting your windshield into two or more pieces, the windshield needs to go.
The technician removes the windshield entirely, either by fracturing it completely and then vacuuming up all the bits of glass, or by pulling away the seal from around the edges of the windshield and lifting it up and away. If the crack has reach all the way across in any one direction, the technician will just shatter the windshield and clean it up, since the other method of removal will only cause the glass to shatter anyway.
A Special Note on Rear Windshields with Defrost
Rear windshields with defrost bars need to be replaced in a very different fashion because of the way in which the rear defrost feature works. Most technicians will shatter it completely, even though the defrost bars may hold the windshield together in places. Every attempt is made to replace the rear windshield with another defrosting piece of glass, but if you are in a hurry and the glass is not in stock, you have the option of just replacing the rear windshield with a standard glass windshield.
Regardless of the type of windshield replacement you need, Grace Auto Glass, Inc. in Escondido can do the job for you. Be sure to call ahead with your auto glass repair needs. Additionally, if you want a technician to bring the glass to your location and do the repairs there, that can be done, but for an added fee.
