A cracked windshield isn't a mere nuisance – it's a potential danger to your safety. From a tiny chip from road debris to a spreading crack triggered by extreme temps, windshield repair in London needs to be done as soon as possible so as not to compromise your vehicle's safety.
Neglecting minor windshield damage can lead to expensive replacements, or you may put your safety at risk while on the road. In this article, we cover the significance of windshield repair, the causes of windshield damage, and how to prevent further issues.
The importance of windshield repair
The windshield is about more than just blocking wind, rain, and debris. It is vital for vehicle safety, as it assists in:
- Structural integrity – the windshield is part of the load bearing of your vehicle. A weak or damaged windshield may also collapse during a rollover.
- Airbag functionality — the windshield helps the airbags deploy correctly. If this is cracked or weakened, airbags might fail to deploy correctly in a collision.
- Clear visibility — even the smallest chip can block your view of the road and other vehicles, creating unsafe driving conditions. Cracks can reflect sunlight or streetlights, creating distractions.
Taking care of minor damage early on could also spare you from a full replacement down the road.
Top causes of windshield damage
While windshield damage is a relatively common occurrence, understanding its causes can help you prevent it. Here are a few of the most common causes of cracks and chips:
- Road debris — small rocks and gravel kicked up by other vehicles can cause your windshield to chip.
- Temperature change – using hot water on a cold, frozen windshield can cause existing cracks to expand.
- Harsh weather – heavy wind or hailstorms can result in damage to the windshield.
- Poor installation – not doing a windshield properly can leave it more vulnerable to damage.
- Accidents and impact – even a tiny fender bender can cause windshield cracks if your glass is already compromised.
When before you repair the windshield
Just because your windshield is damaged does not mean it needs to be replaced. In many cases, repairs are a quick and inexpensive solution.
If so, you should look for windshield repair:
- Chips are smaller than a quarter — smaller chips can often be filled and sealed before they spread.
- It is a small crack – the smaller the crack, the more chance there is for you to have it repaired if it has not spread throughout the glass.
- The damage is not in the driver's direct line of sight — repairs may obscure things a little, and if the damage is right in front of the driver, a replacement is probably in their best interest.
Putting off repairs can cause cracks to widen, making them pricier to fix later.
The windshield repair process
Marble windshield is a speedy and smart process. Here's what to know when repairing your windshield:
- Assessment – A technician will examine the damage and determine if it can be repaired or if it needs to be replaced.
- Cleaning the area – dirt and debris are cleaned out of the area to provide a proper seal.
- Resin injection – a special resin is injected into the crack or chip, filling the damaged area.
- Hardening and curing – UV light is used to harden the resin, allowing it to adhere to the windshield glass.
- Polish and finish – Polishing is done to smooth the surface, achieving a transparent and strong finish.
From start to finish, this takes just under an hour and is a portable, instant solution.
How to prospective windshield win condition
Although some windshield damage is beyond your control, you can take precautions to cut down the risk:
- Stay back – don't drive too closely behind large trucks or vehicles hauling loose gravel.
- Park under cover — if you can, park in a garage (if you have one) or under a carport to avoid hail or falling debris.
- No extreme temperature fluctuations – use gradual thawing methods, not boiling water on the iced window.
- Fix chips asap — small chips can be fixed before they develop into larger cracks, saving you money in the long run.
The trusted place to get your windshield repaired in London
If you've spotted a chip or crack in your windshield, do not wait for it to get worse. Windshield repair, when done properly, can help restore your windshield's strength, prevent reduced visibility, and keep your vehicle on the road with the safety it needs.
So, if you want to drive with total confidence, you must opt for reliable windshield repair services in London. Do not wait until everything gets worse; call us now!
This article's author is Heny Shwan. For additional information regarding Windshield Repair London please continue browsing our website at clearviewautoglasslondon.ca.