Auto glass is a crucial vehicle component, providing drivers visibility and protection from external elements. However, it can be vulnerable to damage from various sources, including road debris, weather conditions, and accidents. About 30% of a vehicle’s structural integrity depends on auto glass, yet many drivers underestimate the possible effects of auto glass damage.
Some insurance companies don’t cover auto glass damage, so knowing the different types of auto glass damage and how you can fix them can help you become a more responsible vehicle owner and save money from doing extensive repairs.
Common Auto Glass Damages and Ways to Fix Them
1. Chips and Cracks
Chips and cracks are the most common types of auto glass damage. They can be caused by flying debris, rocks, or hail, among other things. Small chips (less than the size of a nickel) can often be repaired without requiring a complete windshield replacement, while cracks require a total windshield replacement.
Repairing chips in the windshield involves injecting a clear resin into the damaged area. The resin fills the gap and hardens, creating a smooth surface that prevents the damage from spreading. While the resin may not result in the chip disappearing, the goal is to keep it from spreading.
2. Scratches
Scratches on auto glass can occur for various reasons, such as using abrasive cleaners or wiping the glass with a dirty cloth. Scratches can be minor or deep, and the severity will determine the appropriate repair method. Minor scratches can often be buffed with a polishing compound or a windshield scratch repair kit. Deeper scratches may require a glass polishing tool, which can remove the damaged layer of glass and restore the surface to its original state. Another simple method for scratch removal is rubbing toothpaste with baking soda on the affected area.
3. Shattered Glass
Shattered glass is the result of a severe impact, such as a car accident or break-in. In these cases, you must replace the entire windshield. It is essential to seek professional assistance when dealing with shattered glass, as attempting replacements without the proper tools and expertise can be dangerous.
A certified auto glass technician can remove and replace the damaged glass with a new windshield, ensuring the vehicle is safe to drive.
4. Foggy Glass
Foggy glass is a car dilemma that can lead to severe accidents as it can obscure vision while driving. The most common reason for foggy glass is the difference in temperature between the inside and outside of your car, but it can also result from an incorrect seal on the windshield.
Investing in a heated windshield while driving in cold weather is one good way to avoid fogging the windows. Using the air conditioner or rolling down your windows for air circulation can also help. Clearing the fog in a car will depend on the weather conditions outside, but regular cleaning and air system maintenance are important to prevent moisture buildup.
In some cases, foggy glass can be repaired by removing the seal and resealing the windshield. In other cases, the entire windshield may need to be replaced to fix the issue.
5. Tinted Window Bubbles
Tinted windows can be an excellent way to add privacy and style to a vehicle, but the tint can develop bubbles over time. These bubbles can be caused by exposure to heat or UV rays, among other factors. Bubbles can be a cosmetic issue or a sign of a more severe problem with the tinting.
If the bubbles are tiny, they can be repaired by simply pricking them with a pin or sewing needle and smoothing the remaining bubbles with a credit card. However, if the bubbles are extensive or indicate a more severe problem, the tint may need to be redone or replaced.
Getting the Best Auto Glass Repair and Replacement in Fishers, IN, and Throughout Indiana
Sentry Glass Inc. is a leading auto and semi-truck glass repair and replacement company in Carmel, Indiana. Our woman-owned company has been offering superior windshield and window glass repairs and replacements for cars and semi-trucks throughout Indiana since 1991. Contact us for a free quote or to learn more about our services at 317-577-8147 or admin@sentryglassinc.com today!