Your vehicle’s windshield plays a crucial role in ensuring your safety on the road. A damaged or compromised windshield not only impairs visibility but also poses a serious risk to the structural integrity of your vehicle. Therefore, it’s important to fix a damaged windshield as soon as possible.
When you need windshield replacement, it’s important to entrust the work to an experienced expert. At Northeast Auto Glass, we provide top-quality windshield replacement in the greater Wilkes-Barre, PA area.
Here’s a comprehensive look at the most common causes of windshield replacement and why timely action is essential.
1. Cracks and Chips
One of the primary reasons for windshield replacement is the presence of cracks and chips. What may start as a small chip can quickly escalate into a more significant crack, compromising the windshield’s integrity. Our rock chip repair uses a special resin that can seal up chips and get you back on the road in less than an hour at a very low cost.
Generally, cracks longer than five inches mean you’ll have to replace your windshield rather than repair it. Also, rock chips that are larger than a quarter often necessitate windshield replacement. Ignoring these minor damages can lead to more extensive issues, especially when subjected to further stress from road vibrations and temperature changes.
2. Extreme Weather Conditions
Extreme weather conditions can take a toll on your windshield. Severe temperature changes, especially during winter, can cause the glass to contract and expand, leading to cracks. Hailstorms are notorious for causing extensive damage to windshields, leaving large dents and cracks that compromise the glass.
Additionally, exposure to intense sunlight can weaken the windshield over time, making it more susceptible to damage. In Northeast Pennsylvania, where weather conditions can be harsh and unpredictable, it’s crucial to monitor your windshield regularly and address any damage immediately.
3. Collisions and Accidents
Auto accidents, even minor ones, can cause windshield damage. The force of impact can cause cracks, chips, or even shattering the glass.
In such cases, it’s crucial to assess the extent of the damage and replace the windshield if necessary. A damaged windshield compromises the vehicle’s structural integrity and poses a safety risk. The windshield helps support the roof and airbags during a collision, so a compromised windshield can lead to more severe injuries in the event of an accident.
4. Improper Installation
Improper windshield installation can lead to long-term issues. If the windshield is not correctly fitted or sealed during installation, it may be prone to leaks and cracks.
Choosing a reputable auto glass service for installation is crucial to ensure that the windshield is installed according to manufacturer specifications. An improperly installed windshield can pop out during a collision, which can be extremely dangerous.
At Northeast Auto Glass, our technicians are highly trained to install windshields with precision, ensuring a secure and lasting fit.
5. Road Debris and Objects
Flying debris from the road, such as rocks, gravel, and other objects, can strike your windshield and cause significant damage. High-speed impacts from these objects can result in chips and cracks that spread quickly. It’s essential to repair even the smallest chips as soon as possible to prevent them from expanding and compromising the windshield’s integrity.
6. Manufacturing Defects
Occasionally, manufacturing defects can cause windshield issues. These defects might not be immediately apparent but can become problematic over time.
Stress cracks, for instance, can develop without any apparent cause due to imperfections in the glass. If you notice any unusual patterns or cracks in your windshield that weren’t caused by an impact, it’s important to have it inspected and replaced if necessary.
Repair vs. Replacement Decision
The decision to repair or replace a windshield depends on the extent and location of the damage. Generally, minor chips and cracks can be repaired if they are smaller than a quarter and not in the driver’s line of sight.
However, larger or more extensive damage, such as long cracks or chips that affect the structural integrity of the windshield, often requires replacement. At Northeast Auto Glass, our expert technicians assess the damage and recommend the best course of action to ensure your safety.
Cost Implications
Repairing a minor chip or crack is significantly more cost-effective than replacing an entire windshield. Early repair can save you from the higher costs associated with more extensive damage.
For example, a small repair might be fully covered by insurance, whereas a full replacement might involve a deductible and higher out-of-pocket expenses. Our team at Northeast Auto Glass can help you navigate your insurance coverage to minimize your costs.
Environmental Benefits
By choosing to repair your windshield instead of replacing it, you’re also making an environmentally conscious decision. Repairing glass reduces waste and conserves the resources required to produce a new windshield. This small action can have a positive impact on the environment by reducing the demand for raw materials and minimizing landfill waste.
Preventive Tips
To help prevent windshield damage, consider the following tips:
- Avoid driving behind large trucks on gravel roads to reduce the risk of rock chips.
- Park in shaded areas to protect your windshield from intense sunlight and temperature fluctuations.
- Regularly inspect your windshield for minor chips and cracks, and address any damage promptly.
- Use a windshield sunshade to minimize heat build-up and reduce the risk of cracks during hot weather.
Windshield Replacement in Wilkes-Barre, PA and Surrounding Areas
For windshield replacement in Wilkes-Barre and the surrounding area, contact Northeast Auto Glass at 570-822-0100. Our local auto glass shop offers mobile windshield repair and replacement services throughout greater Wilkes-Barre, including Scranton, Tunkhannock, and Hazleton. Our technicians are trained to handle all makes and models, ensuring your windshield is replaced with the utmost care and precision. We provide a low-price guarantee and a great warranty to protect your new auto glass against defects, leaks, and cracks.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. A damaged windshield is a safety hazard that needs immediate attention. Call Northeast Auto Glass today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services. Experience the peace of mind that comes with driving a vehicle with a safe, clear, and professionally installed windshield.
