Windshield chips are rather common, some chips are so tiny that you may not even notice them at first. Of course, if you’re driving down I -94 heading toward the Twin Cities of Minneapolis or St Paul, at 70 mph that tiny rock is likely going to look like a boulder when it hits your windshield.
A lot of people laugh off the idea of bringing in their vehicle for a rock chip repair. However, in their defense, it’s likely they do not understand that the tiny rock chip could potentially become a cracked windshield, which would require a windshield replacement.
Consulting an auto glass repair and replacement shop in Minneapolis, St Paul, Twin Cities area soon after the chip appears will help you decide if you need your windshield repaired or replaced. They will explain the differences and what is involved.
It is not wise to put off having your windshield inspected by a professional, under certain circumstances including:
• In cool temperature, either compliments of Mother Nature or your air conditioning unit, the cold temperature can put stress on the windshield and cause it to crack.
• Pot holes, bumpy roads and even speed bumps can put pressure on the windshield from the bouncing motion, causing the chipped windshield to crack, while you’re driving.
The Difference between Auto Glass Repair and Auto Glass Replacement
It’s important to understand that a chip (depending on the size) in a lot of cases can simply be repaired. An auto glass repair is a quick and inexpensive job. Unfortunately, if the chip is large or left unattended you’re looking at auto glass replacement, which is more time consuming and more expensive.
Windshield Repair
According to a case study performed by the Motor Industry Research Association (MIRA), an auto glass repair can only be performed on a chip the size of a half-dollar, possibly larger (the size of a dollar bill) if the chip is not to deep.
- The first step is repair the chip – the auto glass installer will vacuum the area to remove any moisture or debris.
- A special resin is used to fill in the chip. Then ultra violet light is used to seal the resin and any left behind resin is then removed.
- It takes a half an hour or less to repair the windshield.
- In many cases, your auto insurance will cover the cost of windshield repair.
Windshield Replacement
Windshield replacement is more involved than a repair.
- The auto glass installer must first remove the damaged windshield, by breaking it.
- Then the area where the windshield sits (the frame) must be cleaned and prepared (any broken glass or rough edges must be removed.)
- Once the new windshield is in your vehicle the urethane that is used to hold the auto glass in place to dry.
- The drying process usually takes 2-3 hours.
- Your auto insurance may cover the costs of your windshield replacement.
If you reside in Minneapolis, St Paul, Twin Cities and you are in need of a rock chip repair call Only 1 Auto Glass MN for a free estimate.
