Let’s get right to it. Your windshield provides up to 60% of the structural integrity of your vehicle. In other words, maintaining the “health” of your windshield could save your life and the lives of others. This means treating cracks, chips, and scratches in a timely manner is pretty important. Unfortunately, having your windshield repaired or replaced may not be enough… who does the work could mean the difference between life and death.
If you needed medical attention, would you choose the sketchy character operating out of a van in a dimly lit alley? Probably not. Your health is pretty darn important… you wouldn’t entrust it to just anyone. Your car’s health, including the state of the windshield, is also important and shouldn’t be entrusted to any Jack Of All Trades that comes along. In the past, Jack’s Glass has discussed the pros and cons of DIY windshield repair; however, it isn’t just DIY windshield jobs that can be dangerous. Sometimes even seeking out a professional can lead to tragic results.
Just consider this excerpt of a story from CBSNewYork:
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”Jeanne Fransway was ejected from her car during an accident — flying 70 feet out the front — where the windshield was supposed to be. It had recently been replaced, but installed improperly, leaving Fransway unprotected.
‘A few days after the accident, I held her in the hospital and she died,’ Jon Fransway said.
’In my sister’s case, the adhesive that was used was outdated,’ Jon Fransway said.”
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In the same news article, Debra Levy of the Auto Glass Safety Council reports that as many as 85% of replacement windows are improperly installed (CBSNewYork, 2012).
How do these tragedies occur? The leading contributor is that there are no federal regulations for the auto glass industry. This means anyone can decide they know what they’re doing and start repairing and replacing windshields (or other windows).
If you’ve had your windshield repaired or replaced, there are a few warning signs that may indicate a faulty job. Be on the lookout for:
- Leaks around the glass
- Tacky molding around the glass
- Uneven (wavy) glass
- Uneven molding
- Gaps in the molding
If you suspect your windshield may not be up to par, contact a glass professional, like those at Jack’s Glass, immediately!
When it comes time to find a qualified professional to repair or replace your windshield, there are a few things to look for:
1. Price
While there’s nothing wrong with getting a great deal, if a price seems too good to be true you should definitely ask some additional questions.
2. Certifications
Does the company and/or the technicians have recognizable certifications? For example, the technicians at Jack’s Glass are certified by the Auto Glass Safety Council.
3. Standards
Does the company and its technicals endorse and adhere to a set of safety guidelines, like the Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standard? Jack’s Glass adheres strictly to Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC) approved installation procedures.
4. Equipment and Materials
Does the company use quality materials and equipment to make repairs and replacements? At Jack’s Glass we use only AGSC (Auto Glass Safety Council) approved materials.
When looking for a professional to take care of your auto glass, don’t be afraid to ask questions. In addition, don’t be afraid to thoroughly inspect the work immediately after repairs have taken place.
If you’re looking for auto glass technicians who will make the safety of you and your family their top priority, look no further than the pros at Jack’s Glass. Contact us today to discuss your auto glass needs.
