What to Know About Windshield Repairs and Replacements in Santa Barbara County
What to Know About Windshield Repairs and Replacements in Santa Barbara County:
A Guide to Aftercare
Imagine cruising down the highway when – BANG – a rock strikes your windshield, leaving behind an unsightly chip or crack. Now you’re left wondering whether to repair or replace the glass. Before deciding, it’s crucial to understand the necessary aftercare to ensure safety and long-term results.
Windshield Repair
For minor damage, repair might be all you need. Typically, chips smaller than 3/8 inch and cracks less than three inches long can be repaired. However, the damage must not extend to the edge of the glass or obstruct the driver’s line of sight.
Why Choose Repair?
Cost-effective: Repairing a small chip is often covered by insurance, helping you avoid the higher expense of a full replacement.
Quick and convenient: Repairs take less than an hour, unlike replacements, which can take up to three hours. Repairs also come with minimal aftercare requirements.
Eco-friendly: Repairing your windshield extends its lifespan, keeping unnecessary waste out of landfills.
What to Expect After a Repair
Appearance: Even with a flawless repair, the damaged area may remain slightly visible, but the glass will be sealed, preventing further cracking.
No aftercare needed: The resin used to fix chips cures quickly. Once the repair is complete and polished, you’re good to go.
Windshield Replacement
If the damage is too extensive for a repair, replacement is the next step. Proper aftercare is essential to ensure the adhesive cures correctly and the windshield is secure.
Aftercare Guidelines for Replacement
Wait before driving: Allow the adhesive to cure fully before hitting the road. This process typically takes one hour.
Avoid car washes: Skip automatic car washes for the first 24 hours. Hand washing or rain exposure is fine.
Watch air pressure: Keep your windows slightly cracked for 24 hours to prevent pressure from displacing the adhesive.
Retention tape: Leave the protective tape on the glass for at least 24 hours to maintain proper alignment.
For windshield replacement and repair, and all auto glass repairs in Santa Barbara County, Goleta, Montecito, Lompoc, or Santa Maria call Tri County Auto Glass at (805) 963-6200 or visit us at 526 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Monday-Friday 8am-4pm.
