30% of all auto insurance claims in the United States are windshield-related, according to an Insurance Journal report. Seeing as damage to windshields is so common, it’s important to know when your windshield needs work.  It’s important to maintain and replace them when needed so your safety on the road isn’t compromised.

As a trusted auto glass replacement company in Indianapolis, IN,  we’ve had extensive experience in dealing with windshield repair and replacement. Here are 5 telltale signs your windshields need replacing:

Deteriorating Visibility

Any minor chips, cracks, and scratches that impair your ability to see are an urgent reason to replace your windshield. Indiana, along with most other states, have laws that require a certain amount of visibility. Federal laws specify only cracks or chips of up to 3/4s of an inch in diameter are allowed, unless they are within 3 inches of another crack, and are not in a critical vision area– in the middle of the driver’s field of view, for example.

Breaking this law could get you in trouble, with at the very least being pulled over for a class A traffic citation.

Imperfections in your windshields can also distort what you see and often cause blind spots that can impair driver performance. This could prove dangerous especially during adverse weather conditions. It could also prove dangerous at night, where 49% of fatal crashes happen, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Small chips and scratches are usually repairable by professionals but a crack bigger than 3 inches (7.62 cm) or any spiderweb-like impacts may require auto glass replacement.

Windshield Pitting

Pitting is a natural form of wear and tear on a car windshield caused by sand, dust, or debris on the road. These will cause patches in the glass that catch light often causing intense glare.

These pits or patches scatter reflected light, making it hard to visibly focus on the road ahead. The bright glares cause reduced that can put drivers in danger. A 2015 statistic from NHTSA indicated that sun glare is one of the most common causes of accidents from environmental conditions.

Windshield pitting is often most visible at dusk and dawn when the angle of the light exposes the imperfections on your windshield. If you notice any pitting in your windshield, it would be best to get in touch with a professional and have it replaced.

Winter Damage

Cold winter weather can damage your windshield through ice, snow, salt, and extreme temperature pressures. When a windshield’s integrity is already compromised, temperature fluctuations can widen fissures and breaks. In extreme cases can even destroy the windshield.

DO NOT pour hot water on the windshield in winter if your windshield is iced over. This is highly discouraged by the American Automobile Association since the thermal shock can damage the windshield.

Incorrect Installation and Repair Failure

Sometimes, a repaired windshield simply wouldn’t work as well as it once was. If you start noticing leaks or wind noises after your repaired windshield has settled in, it’s better to have it replaced than risk compromising its integrity further and put you in danger.

An improperly installed windshield can also cause cracks and chips quickly due to the uneven pressure or vibrations while the vehicle is running.

This would prove costly in the long run due to repairs and replacements. This is why it’s better to install or repair the windshield right the first time by hiring professionals like Sentry Glass Inc.

How Much Does a Windshield Replacement Cost?

The average costs of a windshield replacement are between $100 — $400. Labor has an average cost ranging from $210 — $230.

There are many factors to consider when looking into the cost of windshield replacement. This includes make, sensors and wipers, location and type of damage, vehicle model, type of glass, and preferred brand.

Compared to the cost of fines, the cost to repair any accidents caused by poor visibility, and your peace of mind, however, this is money well-spent, if it lets you drive safely.

Trusted Auto Glass Services

Sentry Glass, Inc has over two decades of experience in providing high-quality services like auto glass replacement in Indianapolis, IN. Get in touch with us today to know more.