As drivers we have all had accidents that damaged our windshields at one time or another. It could have been anything from serious damage caused by ramming into another car to mild damage after a kid hitting it with a projectile. Whatever the case it's a cheaper option to have your windshield repaired rather than replaced since the windshield replacement cost is higher.
Windshields are made by having a plastic layer sandwiched by two glass layers and so it can be repaired without causing any structural damage to the car. These layers prevent shards of glass from injuring passengers in case of an accident. For cars that move at high speeds it is important that the windshield is solid enough to withstand the pressure forces that act on it which also maintains pressure balance between the outside and inside of the car for a comfortable driving experience.
After an accident, insurance companies will generally look into options of windshield repair rather than replacement to save on costs incurred. However in some cases a windshield replacement is prudent and the windshield replacement cost varies with the model of the car. Some vehicles also require special rubber moldings to hold the windshield in place and this further increases the cost.
Most auto garages offer online booking services to enable you to select the windshield you want fixed on your car and book an appointment with a technician, this saves you time and to some extent money. You do not want to go to quacks to have them fix your windshield since any leaks will give you a bad day especially on a rainy day. Leaks will also substantially alter the aerodynamic balance of a speeding car and in the worst case scenario it can be ripped right off its moulds by the forces of nature!
Glass should fit perfectly and should not fall in case of an accident. This prevents the roof caving in on the passengers or passengers being flung out of the car on impact. This could be the saving straw for you in an accident. High performance adhesives should be used to attach the specially tempered glass to the car's body thus making sure that the job lasts longer.
There are set industry standards for glass products used for windshields and you should make sure that yours meets these standards. It should also come from certified original equipment manufacturers for a guaranteed long service.
