Top Reasons to Replace Your Auto Glass the Right Way

November 9, 2019

Your windshield is your first line of defense against a number of harmful things, so it’s natural that eventually it is bound to suffer some chips or even cracks. When your windshield suffers damage, it’s crucial to repair or replace it as soon as possible—getting into a serious accident with a cracked windshield could cause it to shatter or pop out, allowing the roof to cave in on you. It’s a frightening thought, but you can avoid it. If your windshield needs to be replaced, don’t wait—come to Tom’s Glass Co. for a new windshield installation in Vacaville, CA.

What your windshield does

Your windshield is actually a key structural component of your car. Windshields are made of two layers of strong glass with a layer of vinyl in the middle. The reason they’re constructed like this is so that if the windshield shatters, the vinyl will hold the glass shards in place, instead of spraying them over the occupants. They also help hold the roof up, which is why a cracked windshield can lead to a cave-in. Deployed airbags use a significant amount of force that can blow out the glass, too. With over 30 percent of collision fatalities happening due to ejection, windshields are incredibly important for your safety. In short, this is not the place to cut corners or costs.

Should you repair or replace?

Not sure whether windshield repair or replacement is going to be the best option in your situation? Here’s how to make the right choice:

Repair: If the chip is small or the crack can be covered by a dollar bill, then it’s probably safe to repair instead of replacing. Don’t delay, though—even a tiny crack or chip can spread and become bigger when you do something as innocuous as drive over a pothole.
Replace: Obviously if the cracks are larger than a dollar bill, you’ll need to get the windshield replaced. However, if the small cracks or chips are directly in the driver’s line of sight, on the edge of the windshield or number greater than three, it’s also time to replace the entire pane.
Questions to ask: Don’t just settle for any auto shop or dealership. Go straight to a glass shop to get the best results, and ask a few questions. For example, you’ll want to know if the shop uses original equipment glass (it’s stronger), and if you can take the car right away (the windshield needs to sit for one to 12 hours before being driven). Of course, you should ask about price, too—most glass shops are up to 30 percent less expensive than dealerships, who often subcontract to them anyway.

Windshield installation in Vacaville, CA

Is it time to replace your windshield? Tom’s Glass Co. is a family-owned glass shop. We specialize in auto glass repair and residential glass services, including chip and crack repair and windshield installation in Vacaville, CA. Count on us for timely glass services, backed by superior workmanship and great prices. We take auto safety seriously and treat our customers as if they were members of our own family. Contact us today for a free estimate.