Part of responsible vehicle ownership is ensuring that the car is in good condition and the passengers are safe – all the time. When ensuring the condition of the car and the safety of the passengers, you need to pay more attention to your auto glass or windshield.
You must know that the windshield is part of the SRS (Safety Restraint System), which also includes seat belts and airbags. In the case of a front-end collision, the windshield can provide up to 45% of the structural integrity of the cabin. In the event of a rollover, it can even provide up to 60% of structural integrity.
With this, it is important that you always check the windshield condition. Whether it is chips or cracks, it is important that you visit a glass replacement company immediately. Before committing to one, here are the things to ask a glass replacement company:
How long it takes to repair the windshield?
The first thing that you need to ask is the amount of time the company needs to install a new windshield. It matters when you know how long it will take before you can drive your car again – especially if you consider it your main mode of transportation.
You have to know that installing a new windshield should not take more time – minimum is an hour. However, it is better to ask questions at the onset so you can plan accordingly.
Do your materials meet the safety standards?
You should inquire about the company’s materials. This is to ensure that they only use materials that meet federal safety standards.
Do you have a certification?
You need to make sure that you are only dealing with a company that is certified. If the company is unable to show you their certifications and licenses, you should turn the other way. A reliable glass company is confident and transparent of their materials and services.
What are the warranties available?
To have peace of mind, you should inquire about the available warranties. If the company does not provide any, you should look for another. Warranty is important because it provides recourse if something happens. In the end, a warranty can guarantee that you will be taken care of.
Are you a member of any glass association?
A glass company that is a member of Auto Glass Safety Council will give you peace of mind. Membership in this council is a good indicator of the company’s expertise and professionalism in the industry.
Do you have mobile glass replacement services?
If you want the replacement to be smooth and convenient, you should inquire if the company provides mobile glass replacement services. This entails technicians coming to your office or home.
There are many glass replacement companies but you should be careful whom to consider – after all, you are entrusting your life to them. You can find the right company by reading reviews, which will give you insights about the experiences of other car owners.
Bottom Line
When it comes to your car, it is important that you do not take things for granted – especially a cracked windshield. If you let it be, half the force of a collision would be absorbed by you. Spending on a quality windshield could mean the difference between life and death.
