What You Need to Consider Before Getting Your Damaged Windscreen Fixed

A lot of things can go wrong with a vehicle. So, when a crack or chip in a windscreen appears, some people don’t consider this much of a problem, considering there are other things that instantly demand attention and are very serious. However, windscreen cracks and chips should not be taken lightly, they are a serious issue that needs to be taken care of as soon as you notice it. Even though it might not seem like a big concern, a chip or crack in a windscreen can be a safety hazard. This type of vehicle damage is very common and can be attributed to newer lightweight glass that is being used to help with better fuel mileage. Our team at Manchester Car Glass Repair wants to go over a few things you need to consider before repairing or replacing your windscreen.  

How Serious Is a Chipped Windscreen? 

Any chip in your windscreen, whether it’s big or small, is serious and something you shouldn’t ignore. It has been shown in studies that 90% of chips turn into cracks within 3 years at any time. Usually when it’s least expected and can cause a major distraction if it happens while a person is driving. A windscreen also has a major role for the vehicle’s safety. It makes sure the airbags deploy properly, and maintains the structural integrity if the vehicle rolls over in an accident. If your windscreen is damaged in any way, from a chip or crack, no matter how big or small, it makes it 60-70% weaker. This makes it very risky and unsafe to drive around with a damaged windscreen. You can easily avoid this unnecessary risk by getting it fixed right away.  

Is Repairing a Chipped Windscreen as Safe as a Replacement? 

The short answer, yes. A repair is just as good as a replacement, as long as the original factory seal is not damaged, and the chip or crack is not big and extensive. You can repair a small crack or chip in about 30 minutes. Getting a repair will also save you money. The process to repair a chip is as follows: the damaged area will have a vacuum created over it. All moisture and air is removed and resin is injected into the chip. The vacuum is then taken off and sets the resin with a UV light to harden it.  

When is a Crack Considered Too Big to Repair? 

When there is extensive damage to a windscreen, a repair might not be possible and it will need to be replaced. There is a varying cost to replace an entire windscreen and the variables depend on the make and model of your vehicle. There are certain standards that need to be met from the glass in order for it to be installed. This is why it’s important to go to a reputable windscreen replacement company in order to get the work done properly.  

How Long Does a Replacement Take? 

There are different factors that contribute to how long the downtime is for a windscreen replacement. Some include how soon you can be scheduled in for the replacement, how far the service location is, and the mobile technician availability. For non-emergency repairs or replacements, you can make a service appointment. If it’s an emergency repair or replacement, our technicians are available 24/7. Once the replacement starts, you can expect it to take about a maximum 2 hours to do. There’s about an hour for the actual work, then it’s just a matter of waiting for the adhesive to properly dry, which can take anywhere between 45 minutes to an hour. You will then be advised by the technician about safe drive-away times.  

What Are the Risks of Damaging the Vehicle During Replacement?  

Due to enhanced technician training and advancements in technology, the risk of vehicles being damaged during a windscreen replacement is significantly low. Several months of intensive training are required for technicians. After, they need to apprentice a more advanced service technician for their hands-on experience and practical knowledge. A technician is only able to work on their own after their training is done and they receive their certification.  

Let Our Team Help  

We pride ourselves on trying to complete repairs before jumping into a replacement. Our team at Manchester Car Glass Repair is here to help our customers save money. All of our skilled and trained technicians are here and available 24/7, to help you whenever you need it. We understand that accidents, repairs, and replacements can happen at any time, not just between business hours. Which is why we are here with our mobile auto glass replacement services! Call us any time at 07856689008!