Factors To Consider Before Replacing Your Windshield
Posted on: 16 February 2021
Windshields are made of high-quality plastic or glass to offer protection against dust, debris, and insects. They also come with UV coatings to protect drivers against ultraviolet radiation and other weather elements. If your windshield has sustained a crack or any other form of damage, you may have to replace it. Here are some factors you need to consider before replacing your windshield.
Repair Versus Replacement
Sometimes the damage to your windshield may only require repair and not a replacement. To determine whether you need to replace your windshield, the first thing you need to consider is the size or depth of the damage.
A repair can fix a small chip or crack; however, you should note that ninety percent of small chips can become large cracks without any warning. For extensive damage, you may have to replace your windshield. For example, a breakage will require a replacement.
The other thing you need to consider is the location of the damage. You have to determine whether the affected area will obscure your view. If it is in an area of the windshield that is vulnerable, you may have to replace instead of repair the windshield.
The Type of Car
The type of car you own will be a crucial factor when replacing your windshield. For example, if you own a Mercedes, you will need to find the same kind of glass from the car manufacturer. This is why replacing the windshield for luxury cars costs more than when doing the same for non-luxury vehicles.
Similarly, if your car is an SUV or an oversized vehicle, the windscreen is bigger when compared to other vehicles. Therefore, the replacement will require more precision. The windshield replacement for these cars is also costly.
How Long Will the Replacement Take Your Vehicle Out of Service?
You need to think about how long you can last without your vehicle. The downtime for replacing your vehicle depends on several variables, including how soon the service can be scheduled and the service provider's location. You can schedule an appointment on the same day or the next day.
You should make an allowance of three hours for a windshield replacement service. This includes an hour for the work and an hour after the replacement for the adhesive to dry. And an hour for any inconveniences in between. Your windshield repair technician will advise you on the appropriate time to drive your vehicle.
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