Valvoline Express Care and Uniglass Plus have partnered up to offer effective solutions for auto glass replacement. Both companies have long histories of providing the ultimate security and protection for your windshield.
With a heavy focus on customer satisfaction, the goal is always to offer impeccable service and outstanding results.
When does a windshield need to be replaced?
Sometimes it may be difficult to determine if a windshield can get by with a quick repair, or an auto glass replacement is necessary.
Some factors that can help verify if a replacement is needed might be:
- Chip size and description
- Where is the chip?
- How long has the chip been there?
Chip Size and Description
The first step will be to assess the size and type of chip in your windshield.
Is the chip just a superficial scratch on the surface of your windshield? If the chip appears as a small star shape or bullseye, smaller than a looney or toonie, then you can likely get away with just a repair.
However, if the chip or crack extends across the windshield or looks like a sizeable spider web, then a replacement is likely required.
Chip Location
The next factor has to do with where the chip is located on your windshield.
Chips or cracks that impede your field of vision will probably end up needing a windshield replacement. The same is true for cracks that extend to the edges or corners of the glass. Cracks that reach the edge of the windscreen compromise the structural integrity of the glass.
Length of Time
The longer the chip has been there, the more likely the windshield will need to be replaced.
To avoid the need for auto glass replacement, chips and cracks should be attended to as soon as possible.
What happens to chips that are not dealt with quickly?
Chips that are not addressed in a timely manner can quickly turn into extended cracks or fissures.
Overtime, there are a variety of factors that can impact a chip and escalate the issue. Some of these factors include:
- Temperature changes
- Pressure changes – outside air pressure
- Debris, dirt, and stones hitting the windshield
- Rain and water pressure
- Windshield wiper activity
- Pressure from the inside of the windshield
Impact vs Stress Cracks
Impact cracks are caused by something like a rock or stone hitting the windshield and causing a chip or crack.
Stress cracks are often caused by other elements, such as:
- Changes in temperature
- Structural irregularities
- Changes in atmospheric pressure
Windshield Safety
Aside from protection from outside elements, and a clear field of vision, an unblemished windshield is also relied for other safety features.
A fully intact windshield offers such safety measures as:
- Keeping passengers inside the vehicle in the case of an accident
- Providing support for the roof if the vehicle rolls
- Successful deployment of the passenger side airbag
The windshield is considered to be the third most important safety component in a vehicle, after seatbelts and airbags.
What can happen if your drive with a cracked windshield?
Not only does driving with a cracked windshield compromise the safety of you and your passengers, it is also illegal and can result in a hefty fine.
Leave Windshield Replacements to the Experts
Replacing a windshield is not something most car owners feel comfortable doing, and with good reason.
With advanced technology, the structural role of the windshield in vehicles has become progressively more complex.
For most vehicles, around 70% of the structural integrity of the entire vehicle is held in place by the windshield.
That is not something you want to mess around with if you don’t know what you are doing, for your own safety and the wellbeing of your future passengers.
Insurance & Warranty
Valvoline and Uniglass Plus will take care of the insurance details on your behalf. Partnerships with most auto insurance companies in Ontario make the insurance process simple and convenient.
A lifetime Secure-Clear Warranty offers coverage against future repairs needed for chips and small cracks.
Book an Appointment
Contact Valvoline Express CareBrampton today to arrange an appointment for windshield repair, assessment, or replacement.