Ask drivers about the glass that surrounds their vehicles. Most would probably say they rarely think about it, even on the windshield, one of the most essential exterior pieces. Up to 20 million chips, cracks and shattering incidents are reported annually in the USA. When minimal damage occurs, many drivers brush it off and ignore these aesthetic blemishes. However, the experts have sound advice on when to repair or replace your auto glass.

It’s Your Vehicle’s Protective Layer

If the windshield of your car or truck has ever been damaged, then you know how crucial the glass is for your safety and your vehicle’s performance. Auto glass professionals call the windshield a protective component. Not only does it safeguard the driver and passengers from the elements, but it also provides a protective layer against harm for the occupants during an accident.

The windshield holds up the roof, and even a small chip from a pebble on the road can eventually turn into a larger problem. To check it, run your fingernail along the damage. If your nail doesn’t catch, it’s probably a surface chip and may not need repairs. However, if your nail catches, even slightly, that small windshield chip has likely penetrated the glass. It should be professionally evaluated.

Cases Where Repairs Are a Good Solution

Auto glass experts can repair your windshield if the damage developed as a small rock chip, the crack or damage is smaller than a 50-cent piece (a half-dollar), or the damaged glass chip has not been contaminated for months. You can also repair the glass if the glass around the damaged area is stable.

Professional auto glass repair is quick, affordable, usually covered by auto insurance and can be completed in about 10 minutes. The technicians will clean the impact point, inject a specialized clear resin into the crack under vacuum pressure and then cure it with UV light.

Not Every Chip or Crack Can Be Saved

Auto glass replacement is sometimes the only “fix” to maintain a safe vehicle, especially if a crack runs across the vehicle’s windshield. Other times, you’ll need to replace your auto glass if the windshield displays multiple points of failed impact, several cracks are running from the rock chip, and the chip or chips are in the line of sight, especially when sunlight hits them just right. Also, you’ll probably need a replacement if damage along the edges of the windshield is more likely to shatter.

Don’t Delay Repairs

It all starts with a small chip or crack, but once dirt gets into the “depression,” it’s hard to repair it with resin, as it may not bond. This can lead to the crack widening. If you see your crack widening, don’t delay; have the glass evaluated. When you need auto glass repair and replacement services in Oakland, CA, contact Auto Glass On The Move.