Abra Auto Glass Blog

Should I repair or replace my windshield? 

Repair your windshield if...

• If the damaged area affects the driver from seeing the road clearly.
• The crack is shorter than a dollar bill.
• The crack or chip is less than halfway through the windshield.
• If only the outside layer of the glass is damaged.
• The crack or chip is away from the outer margins of the glass.
• If you have more than 3 damaged areas on the glass.

Your windshield should be replaced with quality auto glass if…

• If the windshield crack is impairing your visibility entirely.
• The crack is longer than a dollar bill.
• The crack or chip is more than halfway deep into the windshield.
• The inner layer of the glass has also been compromised.
• If the damage is near the corner or edge of the windshield.
• The glass is tempered, not laminated.

No matter what the cause of the damage is or what your next steps may be, the team at Abra Auto is here to help. From auto glass windshield repair to auto glass replacement, our team of talented certified technicians can solve your problem and get you back on the road. Is your windshield so badly damaged that it’s stopping you from driving anywhere? Not to worry, with our free auto glass service our team will come to you! Check out more features Abra Auto Glass can offer you when using our services:

• FREE mobile auto glass service
• Mobile windshield calibration
• Written limited lifetime warranty
• Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC) Certified
• Billing and insurance claims handled by us

The next time you need auto glass repair or replacement, you know who to call. Learn more about our services by visiting our website.

Driving with foggy windows can be a major safety hazard. Many people face the uncertainty of if they need to use heat or cold in this situation. If you struggle to defog your windows, we’ve compiled a few tips below that can help to clear things up.

Whether or not you need to use heat or cold to defog your windows depends on the temperature outside. On a cold day, any moisture in the air inside your car turns to condensation when it hits air next to the windows that is below a certain temperature. The condensation is what makes your car's windows appear foggy. On a hot, humid day, the opposite happens, when the muggy air outside your car reaches the dew point against your windshield after it's cooled by your AC system. In its most basic sense, the end goal is to match the temperature inside your car to the temperature outside.
 
When it's colder outside your car than inside, the windows typically fog the exterior of the glass.
Here's what to do in that situation:

• First, turn the heat to its maximum setting, because hot air can hold more moisture. In extremely cold temperatures, gradually increase the heat to avoid damage to your auto glass.
• Next, turn the AC on, which will pull the moisture from the air as it passes over the cooling coils.
• Finally, turn off the recirculation button so colder, dryer air is brought into the car.
• If possible, crack your windows for a few minutes to help replace the humid interior air with dryer outside air.

When it’s warmer outside your car than inside, the windows will typically fog up on the exterior of your auto glass.

Follow these steps in this situation:

• First thing: Use your windshield wipers. This will help get rid of the condensation until you've balanced out the temperature.
• Warm up your car: Turn down the AC to the lowest (least-cool) setting to increase the temperature without it becoming too uncomfortable. If this doesn't work, turn the AC off completely.
• Leave air recirculation off: As stated above, it's a good idea to turn off your car's recirculation feature to battle foggy windows so the temperature and moisture levels in your car begin to equalize with those outside.

Every once in a while, extreme temperature differences can cause cracked or shattered windshields. When this happens, there is no need to panic. The auto glass experts of Abra are here to help! Whether you need a simple repair or a full windshield replacement, we can handle any of your auto glass needs. Be sure to take advantage of our FREE Mobile Windshield Replacement service!

Driving safety is one of the most important aspects of getting behind the wheel. We all do our best to keep ourselves protected and safe while on the road. When thinking of safety while driving your vehicle there are many things that come to mind, but I’m sure one of them isn’t how to avoid windshield damage.

Preventing windshield damage while on the road is a key component to overall safety behind the wheel and could be the determining factor of a terrible outcome. To do your part in staying safe while driving, check out the tips below on how to avoid windshield damage while driving.

Reduce time on dirt or gravel
When driving on surfaces like dirt or gravel, debris will kick up and could lead to the possibility of cracks or dents in your windshield. To help minimize the likelihood of this happening, try to limit your time driving on dirt or gravel roads when possible.

Slow down over bumps
Speed bumps and potholes happen, it’s just something we simply can’t avoid. Extreme jolts like uneven ground can turn an already small chip in your windshield into a massive problem. When going over rough terrain, reduce your speed and be careful to help prevent damage.

Keep your space behind vehicles
Whether you are traveling behind an open cargo truck or any other vehicle, make sure to keep your space to avoid potential windshield damage. Things like rocks and dirt get kicked up from other drivers on the road which could lead to windshield damage. To decrease your chances of getting smoked with debris, give yourself plenty of space between the car in front of you.

Minimize time in construction zones
Areas of road construction can be full of loose materials and debris that could hit your windshield. Take the detour and avoid your time spent in construction zones. The extra time added on your commute will be well worth not damaging your windshield.

Find shade whenever possible
After getting to your final destination and finding a place to park, do your best at finding a spot in the shade. Intense sunlight can weaken your windshield and could turn a small imperfection into a huge issue. Seek out shaded parking spaces to help reduce new problems from occurring.

By following these tips, you will be able to take the right steps in keeping your windshield protected while driving.

Even when taking precautionary measures to avoid windshield damage, we know that sometimes accidents happen. If you do find yourself in the unfortunate circumstance of dealing with a chipped or broken windshield while on the road, you have no need to worry, Abra Auto Glass is here to help. Our team of auto glass experts will help you every step of the way. From meeting you where the accident happened with our FREE mobile auto glass service, all the way to helping with billing and insurance claims. Abra Auto Glass is committed to getting you safely back on the road.

To learn more or make an appointment with an Auto Glass expert, contact us today.

The first question that probably comes to mind when noticing a cracked or shattered windshield is “will insurance cover this?” The answer to this question varies based on what type of car insurance you carry. In most cases, this replacement will be covered by comprehensive insurance. Below, we will answer the many questions that come to mind when finding out whether or not insurance covers your cracked or shattered windshield.


What if I don’t have comprehensive coverage?
If you don’t have comprehensive coverage, there are still two other ways that insurance may cover your damaged windshield. If someone holding liability insurance was at fault for the cracked or shattered windshield, you can file a claim against the property damage liability portion of the other driver’s insurance.

What if it wasn’t my fault?
The other way that your windshield repair could be covered is if you can prove someone else is at fault, but they do not hold liability vehicle insurance. In this case, you can file a claim against their homeowners or renters insurance to cover these expenses if they hold either of these types of insurance.

Should I file an insurance claim?
It can be a tough decision to decide whether or not to file an insurance claim. Generally, you will want to file a claim for glass or windshield damage if the repair cost is higher than your deductible. If you are wondering whether filing a glass claim will raise your premium, reach out to your insurer for more details as this varies from state to state.

What if none of the above scenarios apply to me and insurance will not cover the repair?
If you have looked into the options mentioned above and determined that you are not covered, you definitely still need to get the repair done. Almost all states have laws against driving with a cracked windshield, and it is much more prone to shattering if something as little as a small rock hits it.

If you are in need of an expert opinion, the auto glass experts of Abra are here to help! Whether you need a simple repair or a full windshield replacement, we can handle any of your auto glass needs. Contact us today so that we can get you back on the road!

Most people understand that a new windshield is an investment worth maintaining, but few people know the steps to take to keep their windshield in mint condition. Follow the few simple guidelines below to learn how to take care of your newly replaced windshield to ensure that it lasts as long as possible..

1. Wait to drive your car until the minimum safe drive time given following installationTo allow the windshield adhesive adequate time to dry, wait to drive your vehicle until the minimum safe drive time given by the technicians or shop (typically around 30 min) following an installation.
2. Follow any instructions given regarding tapes or moldings.Typically there is no need for any tape or anything to be left on the vehicle once it is ready to drive. However if there is a circumstance requiring any tape be left on the car for some reason, your installer or shop will give you instructions as to how and when to remove it.
3. Avoid car washes and power washers.It’s best to wait two days before opting for a high-pressure car wash, automatic car wash, or the use of a power washer on your car. Opt for a hand wash instead to ensure that there is no potential for damage to the freshly applied adhesive. Rain/ weather or hand washing will not affect the install, however high pressure could cause the still curing adhesive to be damaged or displaced. So it is best to wait a day or so if possible.

Maintaining your newly replaced windshield doesn’t require a whole lot of work. With just a little bit of extra attention, you can extend the life of your new windshield and reduce the need for expensive repairs down the road.

For auto car glass repair and replacement, contact the auto glass experts of Abra Auto Glass. Check out our FREE Mobile Auto Glass Replacement for added convenience. To learn more about our free mobile auto glass service or to make an appointment, be sure to reach out to Abra Auto Glass at 866-884-2272 and we’ll service all of your auto glass needs.

Anyone who lives in a snowy part of the country knows just how annoying it can be to de-ice your windshield. We all wish that the defroster worked faster so we can get on the road as quickly as possible. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to get your car road-ready on an icy day without damaging your windshield.

Ditch the scraper
Never use a metal scraper on your windshield. If using enough force, the pressure of the scraper can scratch the glass. You should use a plastic scraper only as a last resort to avoid damage to your windshield. The best way to do this is after using a deicing solution and warming up your car. After doing those two things, you can then gently scrape away the thawed ice.

Make a de-icer spray
Using a liquid to remove ice and snow is a simple way to get you on the road more quickly. You can either choose to buy a commercial spray at a big-box store, or you can choose to make your own. With whatever de-icing solution you choose, be sure to take great care to only apply this to the glass and not the paint.
There are three ways to DIY this:

1. Rubbing Alcohol Solution - Mix two-thirds rubbing alcohol and one-third water in a spray bottle. Shake the bottle and spray solution on your windshield and watch as the ice disappears in seconds.
2. Salt Water Solution - Mix a few tablespoons of road salt in a spray bottle with water and shake until well combined. Spray your windshield, making sure to avoid metal areas as salt corrodes metal. Note: this solution may not work in subzero climates.
3. Vinegar Solution - Mix three parts white vinegar and one part water by shaking in a spray bottle. Note: this can be used as a preventative anti-icing solution as well.

Warm your car slowly
There’s a reason that your windshield defroster doesn’t work quite as fast as you’d like. The sudden temperature change from warming up your car too quickly can cause major damage to your auto glass. Be sure to turn your heater up slowly to properly de-ice your car and minimize damage. Never use hot water on a frozen windshield.

At Abra Auto Midwest, we understand the consequences that come with damaging your windshield. We pride ourselves on providing quick, affordable, and convenient auto glass repair services. If you do need your windshield fixed and don’t have the time to stop at a repair shop, consider using our FREE mobile auto glass service. To learn more about our free mobile auto glass service or to make an appointment, be sure to reach out to Abra Auto Body & Glass and we’ll service all of your auto glass needs.

Typically, when a windshield crack happens most drivers will just avoid the issue. Instead of addressing the small crack or chip, the problem will be pushed aside to deal with at a later time.
There are many factors as to why people tend to wait to get their windshield fixed:

• They don’t see it as an issue
• They figure they’d wait for when they bring their car in for its next auto shop visit
• Lack of time
• Concerned about the costs involved

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The list could go on and on. At the end of the day, waiting to get your windshield fixed is not the right thing to do. We’ve come up with some main reasons why waiting to get your windshield fixed could turn into a bigger problem than you ever expected.

1. Creates An Issue with Driving Visibility
Regardless of the size of the crack or where it’s located, damage to your windshield can obstruct your vision while driving. Unclear sightlines while driving your vehicle could result in a fatal outcome. It’s best that if you do see a crack, don’t take the risk and get it replaced right away.

2. Windshield Cracks Spread
Something so small can turn into a massive issue. From various factors like the temperature change from cold to hot, pressure in the air, and even the vibration of bumpy roads, the insignificant chip could turn into a completely shattered windshield.

3. Dangerous in a Wreck
With your windshield designed to be five times stronger than standard auto glass to keep the frame of your vehicle in a crash, a chipped windshield could be detrimental. Your windshield has this strength to help keep your roof from crushing down in the chance of a rollover accident. Even the smallest crack could cause serious repercussions in the case of an accident.

4. You Could Get a Ticket
Did you know that having a crack in your windshield is illegal? As you can guess from the various reasons above, cracked windshields can cause serious issues to both yourself and others. Due to the increased unsafe factors that come from damaged windshields, laws have been put in place to prevent drivers from having cracks in their windshield which could result in getting a ticket.

5. It Will Save You Money
If the four reasons above weren’t compelling enough, this one should be the cherry on top. Many people think that fixing a windshield will be expensive and time consuming. They think that they will have to spend time dropping their car off, leaving it at an auto body shop and then deal with the hassle of scheduling when and how they will get it. This myth is certainly not the case. Depending on the type of chip or crack and how big it is, the repair could be as simple as just filling the glass. This affordable option could save you big in the grand scheme of things and help you avoid hefty costs associated with the daunting list above.

Overall, it is best practice not to wait and to get your windshield fixed as soon as you see a chip or a crack. Having your windshield repaired is quick, affordable, and the safe thing to do. If you do need your windshield fixed and don’t have the time to stop at a repair shop, consider using our FREE mobile auto glass service. Yes, you heard us right! An auto glass service that will come to wherever you are located and it’s completely free. To learn more about our free mobile auto glass service or to make an appointment, be sure to reach out to Abra Auto Body & Glass and we’ll service all of your auto glass needs.

Windshield cracks of any size should never be ignored and an appointment for repair should be made as quickly as possible, but there are a few temporary fixes.  First, you can wipe down the cracked area with a cloth. Then apply super glue in the cracks to prevent any dirt or moisture from getting in. This is important because dirt or moisture in the cracks can cause it to spread, making the crack irreparable.

Another simple way to temporarily fix the annoying crack is by avoiding the sun or any extreme temperatures in the area in which you live. The beating sun against the crack will cause it to spread and become a bigger problem. The same goes for extreme temperature changes. To avoid this as much as possible, try to park in a shaded area or garage until you can get the crack fixed.The chip is under two inches wide and less than ⅜ of an inch deep
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Our final tip is to call and schedule a windshield repair or replacement as soon as possible with our Abra auto experts. Our windshield repair and replacement services are quick and easy, with an added option of our FREE Mobile Auto Glass service for ultimate convenience. No matter where you are or what you need, Abra Auto is here to provide quality workmanship, superior service, and dedication to detail in everything that we do!

The short answer: you should always contact a professional to take a look because you never know what may be needed. We will look at some basic rules to see if you need a replacement or if a simple repair would be enough.
In most cases, you can have your windshield repaired if:

• The chip is under two inches wide and less than ⅜ of an inch deep
• Only the outside layer of glass is damaged

You may need to consider a replacement if:

• There are three or more chips / cracks
• The damage is on the driver’s side. Repairing this may leave marks that could impair visibility.
• The damage is around the outside of the glass. As windshields are held in place around the outside edges, damage around this area may compromise the integrity of the glass.
• A repair of the windshield was not successful

These are great rules-of-thumb to follow, but an expert opinion is always recommended. If the integrity of your windshield is compromised, the strength and protection that it provides decreases dramatically.
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If you are in need of an expert opinion, the auto glass experts of Abra are here to help! Whether you need a simple repair or a full windshield replacement, we can handle any of your auto glass needs.

For stubborn residue that just won’t budge, cracks, scratches, or other imperfections on your windshield, rely on the experts of Abra Auto Glass! Our friendly team is here to make your auto glass look brand-new again. No matter where you are or what you need, Abra Auto is here to provide quality workmanship, superior service, and dedication to detail in everything that we do.