Why Choose a Professional Windshield Repair
A stray rock on the highway can damage your windshield. While such damage might seem minor initially, its severity often becomes apparent as it worsens over time. This deterioration not only leads to costly repairs, especially when a full replacement is needed, but it also may pose a significant safety concern that demands urgent attention. The automotive glass replacement market is not just growing; it's booming.
Expected to reach an astounding $50.33 billion by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.4 percent, this surge has been fueled by new technology using the windshield to attach sensors and cameras requiring calibrations. The calibration of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) have added cost but also underlines a critical truth: Windshields are an essential, yet often overlooked, component of vehicle safety and maintenance.
With increasing awareness and technological advancements, the cost effectiveness and the importance of windshield glass repair has never been more evident. As we delve into the world of windshield repair, understanding how the process works and why training and experience is critical to success of the repair process.
Windshield Basics
Your windshield is two pieces of glass bonded together with a plastic inner layer. The damage most common is when objects strike and damage the outermost layer. This damage causes cracks and fractures that cause light to reflect on the new edges created and distort the clarity when looking through causing them to be very noticeable. This two-layer manufacturing is why chips or cracks do not leak water into the vehicle interior. However, if damage extends into the innermost layer of the windshield then replacement is the only option for owners.
When are repairs not possible
When damage occurs it is important to know there are some areas where repairs are not recommended and when the windshield needs to be replaced.
- Damage in drivers direct line of vision
- In front of ADAS cameras or sensors
- When damage reaches edge of windshield
- Cracks extending from chip that are longer than the length of a dollar bill.
- Deep damage extending into plastic inner layer
Methods of Windshield Repair
The Pre-resin Repair Method, or PRISM, represents a leap forward in windshield repair technology. This approach utilizes a more sophisticated system, where the damaged area is first prepared using a unique tool that removes air and moisture.
Then, a high-quality resin is injected under pressure, ensuring deeper penetration and a stronger bond. This method is excellent for medium-sized cracks and chips, where conventional resin injection might not suffice. The PRISM method not only restores the windshield’s appearance but also its strength, offering a repair that’s almost as robust as the original glass.
Windshield Repair Expectations
It is important to note that the repair process will restore much of the glass integrity and keep the damage from spreading. Although the repair may still be visible, it will be much less noticeable than before the repairs were completed. In the case of severe damage the repair is used to extend the life of the windshield until a replacement is absolutely necessary.
Severe Windshield Damage
The drilling and sealing technique is typically reserved for deeper and more severe windshield damage. This process involves carefully drilling into the damaged area to create a smooth path for the resin.
After the drilling, a high-strength resin is injected, filling the entirety of the crack. This technique is particularly effective for longer or deeper cracks that can't be addressed with simpler methods. It's a meticulous process that requires skilled technicians to ensure that the drill does not cause further damage. Once the resin cures, the crack is sealed and the windshield's structural integrity is significantly improved. The goal is to prevent damage from spreading requiring the replacement of the windshield. However, the more severe the damage, the more noticeable the completed repair may be.
What is the Value of using a Certified Auto Glass Technician?
The most common reason anyone might want to DIY anything is to save money, as DIY kits cost a fraction of professional repairs. Moreover, many people might not deem professional repair necessary, especially because most consumers don’t realize how a windshield is made and how glass reacts to temperature and stress from vehicle motion and vehicle flexing. These inherent characteristics are why professionals are needed to perform repairs correctly.
The previously mentioned risks should be enough to choose professional repair over DIY kits, considering the need for a thorough and reliable repair. As with most safety-related repairs, paying more for professional services goes a long way, especially when you factor in the peace of mind you gain from a proper repair.
Expert Help
Working with professionals guarantees that you get results you can trust.
State-of-the-Art Equipment
Our technicians have access to industry-leading equipment and are highly trained in glass repair techniques. When a windshield is repairable, our technicians use a special windshield resin to match the tint and color of your windshield.
Our technicians are also equipped to perform ADAS calibrations when a windshield replacement is required. We perform ADAS calibrations in the same session as the replacement to ensure you get your vehicle back on the road as soon as possible.
Repair Warranties
Reputable repair shops typically include a warranty guaranteeing that a repaired chip or crack will not worsen. For example, Caliber Auto Glass stands behind the quality of its materials and workmanship through its Limited Lifetime Nationwide Warranty. Under the warranty, Caliber Auto Glass will replace any glass that (i) is damaged during installation due to Caliber’s error or (ii) if there is a defect in the materials or installation. Furthermore, the warranty includes calibration of ADAS (Advanced Driving Assistance System) components where applicable.
In contrast, a DIY repair does not provide a warranty, so if your repair fails, there’s no second chance to repair the damage, meaning an auto glass replacement would be your option.
Cost and Time-Efficiency
A professional repair service isn’t just convenient; it can also save you time and money over the long term. DIY repair kits can fail, often leading to additional time and money required for the same repair. In contrast, your first trip to a professional repair shop will often be the only one you need to take. Some service providers also offer mobile auto glass repair when your vehicle is deemed undriveable because of windshield damage.
Choose Caliber
If you’re needing a glass repair, replacement and calibration, click here for a free estimate and our team will be ready to answer any additional questions.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Method for Your Vehicle
Selecting the appropriate repair method for your windshield is not just about fixing a crack or chip; it's about ensuring your safety on the road. Each repair technique has its unique advantages and is suited for different types of damage. It's essential to have a professional assessment to determine the best course of action for your windshield.
At Caliber Auto Glass, we understand the importance of a properly repaired windshield. Don't let a small crack turn into a big problem. Contact us today for a professional evaluation and expert repair services. Trust us to provide you with the best solution for your windshield replacement or repair needs.