A crack or even a slight chip on your vehicle’s glass can diminish your driving pleasure. In addition to their lack of aesthetic appeal, windshield chips and cracks pose safety risks. Fortunately, minor chips and scratches are reparable. For irreparable cracks, windshield replacement is a viable option. At A Plus Auto Glass, we offer high-quality and cost-effective windshield replacement services. If your windshield is damaged, reach out to us for expert auto glass replacement in Houston, TX. We’re a leading auto glass company where professionalism meets your expectations.

Types of Windshield Damage

Although windshield damage may seem like a major inconvenience, it doesn’t always have to disrupt your day. Below are the different types of windshield damage that may require repair or replacement:

• Chip – Small dings from debris, often repairable.
• Bullseye – Circular break resembling a dartboard hit.
• Star Break – Chip with cracks spreading out like a star.
• Combination Break – Mix of chip and crack types.
• Crack – A long line across the glass that may spread.
• Edge Crack – Starts near the windshield’s edge.
• Floater Crack – Begins in the middle of the glass.
• Stress Crack – Caused by temperature changes, not impact.
• Surface Pit – Minor surface wear from sand or dust.
• Long Crack – Over 6 inches; usually needs a full replacement.

When Windshield Replacement Is Necessary:

• Cracks longer than 6 inches – Too big for safe repair.
• Damage in the driver’s line of sight – Can distort visibility, even if small.
• Edge cracks – Often weaken the structural integrity of the windshield.
• Multiple chips or cracks – Too much damage to repair safely.
• Serious damage – If it penetrates the inner layer of glass.
• Previous repairs failing – Spreading cracks or reappearing damage.
• The windshield is shattered or severely damaged and needs urgent replacement for safety.

The Impact of Ignoring Small Windshield Cracks

Your windshield is not merely a window; it is an essential structural component.  The windshield adapts to the vehicle’s motion, mitigating stress from road irregularities and turns. When a crack or chip affects the glass, these pressures may propagate the damage, transforming a minor, reparable issue into a significantly larger and potentially hazardous concern. A compromised windshield may not sufficiently safeguard you in the event of a collision, endangering your safety. By promptly addressing even minor auto glass issues, you can avoid costly windshield replacement and preserve your vehicle’s structural integrity. It is also significant to acknowledge that there is no specific timeline in which mild glass damage may deteriorate. Some drivers can operate their vehicles for weeks or months without exacerbating their chip or crack, but others may experience a deterioration of their windshield damage before their repair appointment. No matter the type or extent of your windshield damage, we recommend booking an appointment with A Plus Auto Glass in Houston, TX as soon as possible.

How Windshield Replacement Works: Key Steps Every Driver Should Know

If your vehicle’s windshield sustains a completely irreparable chip, experts will recommend a windshield replacement. When done in a workshop, the replacement process typically takes less than an hour. Professional technicians follow these essential steps to ensure a safe and effective installation.

• The windshield area is secured to prevent shattered glass from scattering.
• Old glue around the windshield’s edges is carefully removed using appropriate tools and solvents.
• A specialist applies pressure from the inside while using a vacuum lifter to safely lift and remove the damaged windshield.
• The remaining adhesive is fully cleared from the frame.
• A primer is applied to ensure the frame is ready for the new glass.
• The new windshield is installed using fresh adhesive and specialized tools.
• It is then left to cure for several hours to ensure a secure bond.

Stay Safe with Reliable Windshield Replacement from A Plus Auto Glass, Houston, TX

At A Plus Auto Glass, we adhere to all AGRSS standards, ensuring reliability and trust. We offer professional auto glass repair and replacement services in Houston, TX. Allow us to get you back on the road safely. Contact us today for more information.