If your car has recently sustained windshield damage, you might wonder whether replacement or repair is the best option. While auto glass repair in Gresham OR is possible in most cases, a crack longer than three inches typically indicates a need for immediate replacement. By getting a damaged windshield replaced right away, you can preserve your car’s structural integrity while keeping yourself and your passengers safe. To decide between replacement and repair, Metro Auto Glass considers the following factors.

• Size: There are limited exceptions, but in most cases, a chip more than 3/8″ across or a crack over three inches long will require replacement.
• Location: A crack that reaches the edge of the windshield is more likely to spread, and such windshields usually need replacement. Repairs often don’t cure clearly, and if the damage is in your line of sight, your vision could be obstructed.
• Time: The longer a chip or crack goes unrepaired, the greater the chance that dirt build-up will make repairs difficult—and the higher the likelihood that you’ll need a windshield replacement.

Metro works with all the major insurance companies, and they’ll handle the insurance paperwork for you. Before having your windshield replaced or repaired, it’s best to call your agent to verify the proper coverage.

Getting Your Windshield Repaired

Windshield repairs are a relatively inexpensive alternative to replacement, and it can prevent small chips and cracks from becoming big ones. Repair is often recommended over replacement for these reasons:

• It’s convenient. Metro’s team of trained technicians can usually replace a windshield in an hour or less.
• It’s cheap. Windshield repairs are usually more economical than replacement.
• You usually don’t have to pay a deductible. Because repairs are cheaper than replacement, many insurers waive the deductible when a client opts for repair over replacement.
• It’s environmentally friendly. By repairing your windshield instead of replacing it, you’re keeping all that glass out of the landfill.

For a proper repair, Metro’s specialists remove any debris from the damaged area, perhaps using a drill to create a clear path for the resin. Using tools that attach to the glass’ surface, the resin is inserted into the damaged section. Following the injection, the resin cures and is polished to a high shine.

Windshield Replacement

A timely replacement is an important step in preserving your safety. Your car’s windshield makes up about 60% of the vehicle’s structural integrity in a roll-over crash, although the percentage may vary depending on the type of car. Metro performs a set of steps ensuring proper auto glass replacement in Portland OR.

• The old windshield is removed, avoiding damage to the bonding surface and to the paint.
• A windshield of OEM quality is selected and prepped for installation.
• AGSC-approved glues are used during replacement.
• The new glass is installed, following AGSC procedures. It’s best to allow the glue to cure for at least one hour before the vehicle can be driven.

As your windshield is an important structural component, it’s important to get it replaced or repaired as soon as possible after it’s damaged. Metro Auto Glass can service any type of vehicle, and most repairs can be done in an hour or even less.