Is It Time For A Windshield Replacement? 4 Ways To Know For Sure
No matter what type of motorized vehicle you drive, it's important that your windshield is up to standard. Any windshield damage could make driving more dangerous. Even though many types of windshield damage can be repaired, you may need to have your windshield replaced if you notice any of these four problems.
1. The windshield is heavily cracked
A small ding or crack may be fixed without having to replace the windshield, but you'll likely need a new windshield if you have larger or multiple cracks. Even a single long crack can splinter and form additional cracks. Star, bullseye, and other circular cracks can also necessitate a windshield replacement if they can't be fixed. Windshield cracks can interfere with your vision and may also put the windshield at greater risk of shattering in certain conditions.
2. The windshield was installed improperly
Whether you bought your vehicle new or used, you may have a windshield that wasn't installed correctly by the manufacturer or the mechanic who replaced a previous windshield. A faulty windshield can leave the inside of your vehicle more exposed to the elements and may pose certain dangers on the road. Signs that your windshield wasn't installed correctly include:
- Leaks
- Shifting glass
- Gaps in the frame
- Rattling sounds
- Wind sounds or drafts coming through the windshield
3. You notice strange white corners forming
If the corners of your windshield start to look white, the polyvinyl butyral (PVB) coating is probably loosening and wearing away. PVB is usually added to new windshields during the manufacturing process to make them stronger and prevent them from shattering during a collision. The white corners that you see on your windshield can interfere with your vision. Your windshield may also be losing its strength as the PVB coating wears away more, so you should consider a windshield replacement if this is happening.
4. Pits form on your windshield
As dust, dirt, and other debris continue to hit your windshield while you're driving, pits may eventually form as some of the glass wears away. These pits can make seeing through your windshield more difficult, and you may especially have problems when sunlight hits these pits from certain angles and causes glare. Windshield pitting may additionally cause cracks to form. In most cases of windshield pitting, a windshield replacement is the only solution.
When windshields are damaged, windshield replacement is often the best answer. Windshield replacement experts have high-quality windshield glass that can be fitted onto your vehicle and put an end to your windshield problems.
For more information, contact a windshield replacement service near you.
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