Guide To Windshield Replacement — Understanding Damage and Passenger Safety
A Chip or a Crack Won’t Ruin Your Day at Max Auto Glass
Discovering a chip or crack in your windshield can be alarming, especially if you don’t know what to do next. At Max Auto Glass, we handle all your auto glass replacement needs easily and professionally. We offer transparent, friendly service and high-quality windshield replacements that meet or exceed industry standards. If you have windshield damage, let’s explore how easy it is to get a quote for windshield replacement at Max Auto Glass.
We’re a Prestige Windshield Replacement Facility
We take pride in being a top-tier windshield replacement facility at Max Auto Glass. We utilize precise and accurate installation methods to ensure every replacement is done with the utmost care and attention to detail. Our certified technicians are experienced in replacing windshields on all makes and models; we have the skills and expertise to do the job right the first time. We use only high-quality glass that meets or exceeds your vehicle’s manufacturer requirements. No matter the type or severity of damage your windshield has sustained, you can trust Max Auto Glass to get you back on the road safely.
Not All Windshield Damage is the Same
While windshield damage might seem like a significant inconvenience, it doesn’t always have to ruin your day. Here’s a breakdown of the common types of windshield damage and how we approach repairs versus replacements.
Unpacking Repairable and Non-Repairable Windshield Cracks
Cracks can appear in your windshield for various reasons, from road debris hitting your windshield to sudden temperature fluctuations. Whether or not a crack is repairable depends on its size, location, and type.
Types of Repairable Cracks:
- Small surface cracks that are shorter than three inches
- Cracks that are not in the driver’s line of sight
- Cracks away from the windshield’s edges
Types of Irreparable Cracks:
- Long cracks over six inches
- Cracks that compromise the structural integrity of your windshield
- Cracks near or along the edges of the windshield
Repairing windshield cracks can be tricky, mainly because they can easily spread with a single bump in the road. At Max Auto Glass, we know how to handle cracks in your windshield best. If we discover that your windshield crack requires a windshield replacement, our expert technicians can perform that too.
Let’s Talk Windshield Chips
Chips can form in your windshield due to small rocks or debris striking the glass while driving. Like cracks, not all chips are the same, and their repairability depends on the size and type of chip.
Types of Repairable Chips:
- Bullseye chips that are less than one inch in diameter
- Chips that haven’t spread cracks across the glass
- Chips away from the windshield’s edge
- Chips less than one inch in diameter
- Chips that have not penetrated the glass’s laminated layer
Types of Irreparable Chips:
- Starburst chips where cracks radiate outward
- Chips larger than one inch in diameter
- Chips in the driver’s line of sight or close to the windshield’s edge
Because no two chips or cracks are alike, whether your vehicle’s unique windshield damage can be repaired will require expert inspection by one of our auto glass technicians. Each is highly trained to determine which windshield damage can be safely repaired and which damage will require replacement. Max Auto Glass has you covered, no matter the size or location of the damage.
The Impact of Weather Conditions on Auto Glass Damage
Weather plays a critical role in the development and progression of windshield damage. Changes in temperature cause auto glass to expand and contract, which can worsen existing damage such as cracks or chips.
In cold weather, a small crack can suddenly grow larger as the glass contracts, while in hot weather, expansion can cause a tiny chip to spread. That’s why addressing even minor windshield damage before it worsens is essential. If your windshield is already damaged, the stress of temperature changes can weaken the glass further, reducing its effectiveness in protecting you.
Because Arizona has a desert climate, we have extreme heat during the summer, where temperatures can reach triple digits. We experience cold nights in the winter when temps can drop to the mid-40s. While we don’t experience below-freezing temperatures, our changing climate is enough to worsen glass damage.
At Max Auto Glass, we recommend scheduling an appointment at the first sign of damage to avoid having to replace a windshield that could have been repaired.
Consequences of Ignoring Small Auto Glass Damage
We’ve already mentioned that weather can worsen windshield damage, but there are other risks to consider if you ignore chips or cracks. Your windshield isn’t just a window — it’s a crucial structural element. Your windshield flexes with the car’s movement, absorbing the stress from road bumps and twists.
When a crack or chip compromises the glass, these stresses can cause the damage to spread, turning a small, repairable problem into a much larger and potentially dangerous issue. A weakened windshield can fail to protect you during an accident, jeopardizing your safety. You can prevent costly windshield replacement and maintain your vehicle’s integrity by addressing even minor auto glass replacement issues early.
It’s also important to note that there’s no timeframe in which minor glass damage may worsen. Some drivers can drive for weeks or months without their chip or crack worsening, while others’ windshield damage may worsen before they even arrive at their windshield repair appointment.
Regardless of what type of windshield damage you have, no matter how small, we recommend scheduling service at Max Auto Glass as soon as possible.
Essential Steps To Take After Your Windshield Replacement
After your windshield is replaced at Max Auto Glass, following a few simple steps is essential to ensure the new glass is secure and properly bonded to your vehicle. The windshield adhesive requires time to fully cure and create a watertight seal. Here are a few essential steps that we recommend taking to ensure the most secure windshield replacement:
- Wait before driving: Your technician will provide specific instructions on how long to wait before driving your car, usually between two and 24 hours, depending on the adhesive used.
- Leave retention tape in place: Retention tape is applied to your windshield to keep it in place while the adhesive sets. It’s crucial not to remove this tape for at least 24 hours.
- Avoid car washes: It’s best to avoid high-pressure car washes for a few days after auto glass replacement to allow the adhesive time to fully cure.
- Drive carefully: Avoid slamming doors or driving over rough terrain for the first few days after your replacement, as these actions could stress the windshield before the adhesive has fully set.
Following these steps will ensure your windshield remains securely in place, protecting you and your passengers.
Schedule an Appointment at Max Auto Glass Today
Windshield replacement is a delicate process that requires expert precision and care. Whether you’re dealing with a small chip, a significant crack, or complete windshield damage, Max Auto Glass can handle it all with ease and professionalism. Our technicians are highly trained and equipped to replace windshields on all makes and models, ensuring your vehicle meets all safety standards.
We also work directly with insurance companies to streamline the auto glass replacement process, guiding you through the claims process to make everything as smooth as possible. With transparent service and high-quality materials, we’re proud to be trusted Tucson and Phoenix windshield replacement facilities.
Don’t wait until minor damage becomes a big problem. Schedule an appointment with Max Auto Glass today and let our experts take care of all your windshield replacement and auto glass repair needs.