Windshield Replacement in Las Vegas: Is it Time for a Replacement?

August 17, 2016

If a non-repairable chip or crack has appeared on your vehicle’s windshield, getting the unit replaced as quickly as possible is absolutely essential so that you can get back on the road safely. A new windshield for your vehicle can be supplied and fitted by your Las Vegas windshield specialist.

Can my windshield be repaired, or will I need to replace it?

In simple terms, the answer to this question depends on a number of different factors. Before carrying out any work, your auto glass company will inspect your vehicle and advise on the best course of action. Advancements in technologies now mean that a larger number of damaged windshields can be repaired, however there are still many cases where a complete replacement will be required. The glass may or may not be able to be repaired depending on the location, size and type of damage.

If your windshield needs to be replaced, there are a number of firms located throughout Las Vegas who can carry out the work to your vehicle. The process usually goes as follows:

1.    The auto glass company will inspect your windshield and assess the damage.
2.    The existing windshield will be carefully removed and any remaining debris cleaned up.
3.    The new windshield will be installed using the correct tools and procedures.
4.    An inspection will be carried out to check that it has been correctly fitted to your vehicle and that it is safe to drive.

Choosing a Las Vegas Auto Glass Shop

With so many auto glass firms serving Las Vegas, it’s important to choose the right one. If you are making a claim through your insurance company, they may offer a choice of approved repairers you can use for the work.

Look out for a company that:

Uses trained and certified technicians
You will want to use a company that has trained and certified technicians who have the relevant skills, expertise and experience to carry out a safe and high-quality replacement.

Follows all safety regulations and industry standards
There are many regulations and industry standards that apply to windshield replacement and repair. Always check that the company you use meets these criteria.
Uses manufacturer-approved windshields
Some firms like to use poor quality replacement windshields, which may be more likely to suffer further damage in the future. Check that the company in question uses high quality windshields that are approved by the manufacturer of your vehicle.

Members of relevant associations
It is usually a good sign if a company is a member of an association such as the Auto Glass Safety Council or the National Glass Association.

Has appropriate insurance
The auto glass firm should have appropriate insurance in place to cover any damages caused by the work.

Offers a mobile service
Most Las Vegas auto glass shops offer a mobile service, which is highly convenient and means that you won’t have to drive a vehicle that may be unsafe.

Providing you choose carefully, your windshield replacement in Las Vegas should be both simple and convenient.

Windshield Chip Repair in Las Vegas: Is My Windshield Repairable?

You’re driving down the highway when suddenly some flying road debris hits your windshield and causes a chip to appear in the glass. You’re probably now wondering whether your windshield is repairable, or whether you are going to be looking at replacing the whole unit…

Before calling your local Las Vegas repair shop, here is some information you might find useful.

The Advantages of Repairing a Chipped Windshield

Most people would prefer to get the damage repaired, rather than having to go to the hassle of getting the whole glass unit replaced. A repair is usually much cheaper to carry out – and it can often be arranged through your insurance company, without having any impact on your no-claims discount. In addition, a repair can be carried out more quickly, leaving you free to get back on the road with minimal hassle.

The Disadvantages of Repairing a Chipped Windshield

The most obvious drawback is that a small blemish may still be visible on the glass following the repair, so it’s something to think about if you’re extremely fussy about the appearance of your vehicle. Having said that, most repairs can be carried out to an extremely high standard, and it’s important to emphasize that the repair will be safe and stop the chip from spreading further.

Is My Windshield Repairable?

Your Las Vegas auto glass shop will be able to accurately asses whether or not your windshield is repairable, however the following information should give you a rough idea as to what is possible.

The good news is that recent advancements in windshield chip repair mean that there is now a much higher chance of a repair being carried out than would have been the case just a few years ago. Gone are the days when a chipped windshield automatically meant that you’d need to replace the whole unit!

Size of Damage

In the past it was the case that chips of more than the size of a dollar bill would be unable to be repaired. Whilst smaller chips are still more easily repaired, modern technologies mean that it is now possible to repair chips or cracks that are larger in size.

Location of Damage

A chip that is directly in the eye-line of the driver may be unable to be repaired. This is because the repair may leave a visible blemish on the glass, which could reduce the visibility of the driver and make the vehicle unsafe to drive. In addition, it might not be possible to repair a chip that is located near to the edge of the shield or if there are multiple chips or cracks present on the glass. Your Las Vegas auto glass shop will inspect the damage and let you know what happens next.

What If My Windshield Isn’t Repairable?

If it is not possible to carry out a repair, you will need to replace the whole windshield with a new unit. Your repairer will usually be able to source and fit the replacement glass to your vehicle and ensure that it is safe for you to drive.