What to do when your Windshield is Damaged
Windshieldstake a lot of punishment. They are all that is between the occupants of the vehicle and the wind, rain, snow, dirt, and anything else that comes down the road. They can be damaged in a split second from a rock kicked up by a passing truck, a chunk of ice, or even a bird or a baseball. Even the smallest crack or flaw in the glass should be repaired immediately since these can spread quickly making the windshield unusable and unsafe.Of course if the windshield is damaged severely, the car should not be driven at all. Driving with shattered or crazed glass is not a good idea under any circumstances. However, even the smallest, almost microscopic flaw can quickly turn into a major problem so it is important to get it fixed before driving the vehicle any distance. Small pits or even cracks can sometimes be repaired using a special resin, and there are many services that will perform this right at the home. Usually these kinds of repairs will provide the strength and durability that will save the glass for years to come and eliminate the need for an expensive replacement.While there may be products available for the handyman in the family, this isn’t usually recommended. The results are sometimes less than expected and can actually affect the color of the glass. It may also only prolong the inevitable and actually increase the chances of a more expensive fix down the road. In fact, it is recommended that the damage be left untouched entirely. The chipped are or crack should not be touched with the exception of possibly applying a small piece of tape to prevent dirt from entering the ding until a permanent repair can be made. Windshield repair is a specialized field and one that should be handled by a professional. The good news is that many insurance companies cover this charge, if you have comprehensive. If the windshield is severely damaged or has a crack that extends all the way across, it will need to be replaced and this can be very pricey. Glass companies specializing in replacement can perform this task in a relatively short time either in the shop or at home.Damaged windshields are not to be taken lightly. Even the smallest damage can escalate into a major safety risk and a very expensive repair or replacement. They definitely need to be taken care of professionally and as soon as possible.
