Windshields 101: Understand Your Windshield Before You Get a Repair
You usually do not need to know much about your car’s windshield until it needs to be repaired. Educate yourself on the features of your windshield so you will be equipped with the information you need when it does come time for a repair or replacement of the windshield.
What Materials Make Up Your Windshield?
All of the windows in your car are made of a safety glass to reduce the risk of injury in a car accident. Your windshield is made with even more caution. It consists of two pieces of glass that are separated by a layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB). The PVB works to adhere the two pieces of glass together. This layer makes it difficult for objects from the outside to penetrate the window. It is used for added UV protection and to reduce the amount of sound that is transferred through the window. Your windshield is laminated to increase its strength before being installed on your car. This makes the windshield rigid and helps maintain the structure of your vehicle.
Safety Features Provided by Your Windshield
The rigidity and strength of your windshield contributes to many of the safety features of the car. If your car rolls over, your windshield helps the roof of your car maintain its shape and keeps it from caving in. The proper placement of your windshield ensures that all the airbags in your car will function properly. Lastly, the windshield helps prevent a driver or passenger from being repelled from the car in an accident.
Factors to Consider Before Repair
Before you repair or replace your windshield, have an auto glass professional like Glass Works in Tulsa take inventory of the damage. They will help determine the best course of action for your situation. Here are some important factors to consider about your windshield before you schedule any repairs:
Who Will Make the Replacement Windshield?
Most auto glass shops will replace your windshield with whatever glass is compatible with your vehicle. You have the option to replace the windshield with an OEM windshield, which is made from the same manufacturer as your original windshield.
Make Sure the Repair Shop Meets Standards
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards require auto glass repair shops to give you quality and safe repairs. Do your research to determine if the repair shop you are considering is meeting those standards.
Find Out What Your Insurance Covers
Many auto insurance companies will cover minor cracks and repairs in your windshield. Find out if you have any deductibles that need to be met to help determine the cost of repairs.
Repair Time and Convenience
After speaking with a specialist, you will know how long the repairs will take. Professionals like Glass Works in Tulsa can complete chip repairs in as little as 30 minutes. They also offer mobile services that will come to your location, allowing you to fit repairs into your busy schedule.
Sources:
https://www.safelite.com/windshield-auto-glass-technology/windshield
