Glass Doctor - Auto

How to Guarantee Safe Windshield Installation

Vanessa Jenkins — Mon, 25 Jan 2016 19:29:14 +0000

How to Guarantee Safe Windshield Installation

Vanessa Jenkins

Monday, January 25, 2016 - 1:29pm

No matter the damage your windshield has suffered, it is critical to find a company qualified to repair your vehicle’s make and model.

Whether you choose our trained glass specialists or not, we always recommend you select a company that is familiar with the standards set by the Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC).

The AGSC is a non-profit organization that promotes standards for safe windshield replacement. In order to join the AGSC, members must go through a strict registration process. Glass Doctor of Raleigh is audited by this organization to make sure we are following and complying with all AGSC safety rules and regulations. We are a proud member of the AGSC and comply with all industry standards.

Unfortunately, many windshields are improperly installed by company's not trained in proper windshield care. Poor windshield installation causes safety issues that can be life threatening during an auto accident. When the front air bags (We need to fact check, is it just the passenger or is it driver and passenger?)deploy, in many vehicles, it hits the windshield then bounces back to the passenger. (Began two sentences in a row with the same phrasing)Windshields installed with the wrong adhesives or poorly fitted glass will pop out of place, causing the airbag to not perform as designed. This puts the occupants of the vehicle at high risk.

Entrust the Glass Doctor of Raleigh team with your windshield installation. We will make sure your glass is installed correctly to keep your family safe, call us now for premium serve! We fix your panes!®

Need Your Windshield Repaired or Replaced? Think Safety First!

Brad Roop — Mon, 28 Dec 2015 15:34:50 +0000

Need Your Windshield Repaired or Replaced? Think Safety First!

Brad Roop

Monday, December 28, 2015 - 9:34am

Many of us, when we’re unlucky enough to need our windshield replaced, shop around to find the best price; or we rely on our insurance company to recommend an installer. But getting a windshield installed is not like buying things like a TV or toaster…shopping by price does not necessarily compare apples to apples.

Many of us are not aware that our windshield is one of the most important safety restraint systems in our vehicle. It allows the airbags to deploy in the correct position to cushion passengers, and keeps the roof from crushing during a rollover.

Did you know the windshield is a “backstop” for airbags? When a passenger-side airbag deploys it is held in place by the windshield to protect the passenger from going head first into the glass during a crash. The airbags deploy at speeds of 150 - 200 mph. If a windshield is cracked, installed improperly, or not the same quality as the original, the ability to perform this important job properly will be compromised. Accidents like this could unnecessarily result in a major injury for the passenger.

According to independent testing, over 70 percent of windshields in the United States are replaced incorrectly. It is important that the installer replacing your windshield uses only original equipment quality parts, original equipment quality adhesives, and properly trained specialists. Installers focused on completing jobs at the lowest cost, may not be as focused on the quality of parts or installation.

Your Glass Doctor of Jacksonville windshield repair and replacement specialists follow Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC) guidelines to ensure that your windshield is properly installed. We use OEM quality parts, and the best adhesives on the market. Call Glass Doctor of Jacksonville to schedule your appointment.

How To Report an Auto Glass Insurance Claim

Brad Roop — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 16:36:30 +0000

How To Report an Auto Glass Insurance Claim

Brad Roop

Thursday, November 19, 2015 - 10:36am

It can be upsetting when your windshield gets hit with a stone on highway 64 and it cracks. There you are wondering how do I get my windshield replaced, are my insurance rates going to increase, and what about the quality of the glass.

Glass Doctor is a preferred insurance repair company for all of the insurance companies. Glass Doctor does insurance work from Virginia Beach to Williamsburg in the entire Hampton Roads area.

It is an easy process to report an auto glass insurance claim. All you need to have is your policy number. It is on your insurance card. Call Glass Doctor at 757-495-6514. We will do a three way call between you and the insurance company. The insurance company will ask a couple questions and authorize the work. We will then bill insurance company directly for all work performed.

Insurance companies do not normally increase your insurance rates for auto glass claims. They know that this is expected since you are driving a vehicle on the roadways.

Most insurance companies cover chip repairs in windshields for free. The insurance companies would rather pay for a chip repair then pay to have a windshield replaced.

Glass Doctor uses only glass that is manufactured to Original Equipment Manufacturer standards. This provides you with peace of mind and a great product that meets or exceeds what is required to get your vehicle operating properly.

Windshield Chip Repairs

Brad Roop — Wed, 07 Oct 2015 21:55:45 +0000

Windshield Chip Repairs

Brad Roop

Wednesday, October 7, 2015 - 4:55pm

Winter is on the way and its important to take care of that chip before it's too late! Flying rocks, gravel and debris are bad enough in the summer. Add freezing temperatures, ice, hail and low visibility to the mix and chips become very hazardous in the winter.

Why and when is a chip repair necessary?

Repairing a chip in your windshield is especially important prior to the winter months. During the cold winter months rock damage to your windshield can spread as a result of the cold temperatures. Moisture from ice and snow can get trapped inside the crack. As temperatures drop, the moisture freezes and expands, thus increasing pressure on the glass and causing serious cracks. When you apply the heat from the defroster for the first time, the water melts and expands ruining your windshield for good. Instead of the minimal cost of a chip repair, you are now looking at the cost of a new windshield which is far more expensive.

It's easy to ignore windshield damage and put off repairing the windshield until its too late. When your chip is allowed to grow into a large crack or multiple large cracks, it's not only a costly mistake but is is also unsafe. The structural integrity of your windshield is actually a critical component to your safety in a rollover crash.

How much does it cost?

The difference between the cost of a chip repair and a windshield replacement is significant. Our average in-shop price for a chip repair is $55. If there are multiple chips, we charge an additional $15 per chip. The cost of an average windshield is around $250 and for many vehicles the cost is actually much higher. Once the chip has started to crack and spread, its too late and a full windshield replacement is required.

How long does it take?

No need to clear your schedule, a chip repair takes around 20 minutes and can usually be done without an appointment. If you notice a chip in your windshield come by and let one of our trained specialists take a look before it's too late. It could end up saving you a lot of money!

Still have questions? Contact the auto glass specialists at Glass Doctor of Tulsa today at (918) 770-7023, or we invite you to take a look at our windshields services page for more information!

Windshield Care During Summer

Brad Voreis — Wed, 08 Jul 2015 18:50:10 +0000

Windshield Care During Summer

Brad Voreis

Wednesday, July 8, 2015 - 1:50pm

The hot summer temperatures lead many of us to crank up the air-conditioning inside the car to stay comfortable. The trouble is that the warmer it is outside, the more we blast the air. The heat on one side of the glass and the cold on the other puts stress on your glass and cause small cracks and chips to start spreading. Before long, small problems turn into major headaches.

Beat the Heat with Auto Glass Repair

Glass Doctor^® of Newmarket knows you want to stay cool in the summer without risking your safety. Our expert windshield chip repair service will get your windshield looking like new again, so you are back on the road and enjoying your summer fast.

Protecting Your Windshield

If you want to keep your auto glass in top shape for the season, follow these expert tips:

Timely repair. Even if you only have tiny spots of damage, bring your vehicle in for our windshield chip repair service right away. We offer same day appointments, and most repairs are done in less than an hour.
Keep it cool. Don't park your car in direct sunlight with the windows rolled up tightly. The increased pressure from the heat will cause small cracks and chips to expand. Park in the shade or keep a window slightly open to ease the pressure.
Easy on the AC. If you have a damaged windshield, don't blast the air conditioning. Roll down the windows for some fresh air until you are able to get your windshield repaired.
Clean a cool car. If your car has been baking in the sun, running cold water from the hose on it will cause cracks and chips to grow. Park your car in the shade for a couple hours first, or wait until after sunset to wash.
Close Carefully. Slamming car doors causes a sudden change of pressure inside the vehicle and makes damaged windshields worse. Instead, close doors gently.

Fast Windshield Chip Repair

Glass Doctor of Newmarket provides fast, courteous care for your auto glass all year long. Our specialists are highly trained to get the job done efficiently so you can be on your way quickly. Call us at 289-470-5351 or schedule an appointment online today!

Windshield Care During Summer

Brad Voreis — Wed, 08 Jul 2015 18:28:44 +0000

Windshield Care During Summer

Brad Voreis

Wednesday, July 8, 2015 - 1:28pm

While the weather might be perfect now, you’re probably going to appreciate the cool blast of air your car’s air conditioning system delivers on those rare summer days where the temperature gets a little hotter than you would like. While it certainly makes you more comfortable, you’re creating opposing forces that could worsen any damage your windshield has.

Summertime Windshield Care

Glass Doctor^® of Sunshine Coast will help keep your windshield in good condition throughout the summer. Follow our tips to help keep small chips from becoming big cracks:

Get damage fixed fast!

If you have a small chip, have it fixed immediately, before it grows into a bigger problem. The longer you wait for windshield chip repair, the more likely it is that your windshield will need to be replaced.

Seek the shade.

Park your car in the shade whenever possible, especially if you’re out and about for long periods of time. At home, clean the old sports and lawn equipment out of the garage so you can park your car inside. Direct sunlight increases the pressure inside your car, making damage more likely to expand. Cracking your windows also helps alleviate the pressure.

Give your air conditioner a rest.

It’s best to not use your air conditioner until your windshield is repaired. Roll down the windows if needed, and consider this an extra incentive to get your windshield repaired quickly! Besides, it’s beautiful out!

Don’t slam your car doors.

Quickly closing a car door can cause a sudden change in pressure, which can expand the chip in your windshield; the jolt from the force will make the damage worse.

Wait to wash.

If you wash your car while it’s still hot, the damaged area may grow. Instead, wait until your ride has cooled off later in the day. The lower temperatures will be easier on you, too!

Don’t neglect your wipers.

Your wipers need to be in good shape in case of a summer storm. Dirt, sand, and other grime on your wipers may also scratch your windshield. Wipe them down using a rag moistened with windshield fluid, and replace them when needed.

Glass Doctor of Sunshine Coast will help you keep your auto glass in the best possible shape in any season. Schedule an appointment for windshield chip repair or give us a call at 855-395-4612 so you can enjoy the cool comfort of your air conditioner again without worry!

Windshield Care During Summer

Brad Voreis — Wed, 08 Jul 2015 18:02:04 +0000

Windshield Care During Summer

Brad Voreis

Wednesday, July 8, 2015 - 1:02pm

Beware of windshield damage this summer. Many cars, trucks and SUVs suffer from preventable windshield damage expansion. The opposing forces of the strong summer sun heating the outside of a windshield and the blasting of cool air conditioning inside put already damaged car windshields under stress. The buildup of pressure causes many windshields with small chips to graduate to full-blown cracks.

For many car owners this results in an expensive and time-consuming full windshield replacement when a timely repair could have prevented the problem.

To help Glass Doctor^® of North Vancouver customers avoid further damage this summer, we’ve created a list of top tips to help you keep your windshield safe:

Act Now!

The quicker you get your chips repaired the less time they have to turn into cracks. A quick windshield repair takes less than an hour; often we can accommodate same-day appointments, so click or call now!

Stick to the shade.

Direct sunlight heats your car and increases the pressure on your windshield. Park in the shade and leave your windows open a crack.

Who needs A/C?

Your air conditioning can contribute to damage done to your windshield. If you can’t get your chip repaired immediately try rolling down the windows until you can fit in an appointment.

Don’t slam your doors!

Slamming doors creates a sudden change in the pressure inside your car, which can cause chips and cracks to expand and get worse.

Cool before you wash.

Hosing cold water onto a hot windshield can cause further damage. Cool your car glass down in the shade or wait to the evening to wash when it’s cooler.

The only certain way to prevent further damage is to book a windshield chip repair appointment when damage first occurs. Call Glass Doctor of North Vancouver today at 604-929-7292 to chat to a member of our team or simply schedule your appointment online.

Windshield Care During Summer

Brad Voreis — Wed, 08 Jul 2015 17:27:23 +0000

Windshield Care During Summer

Brad Voreis

Wednesday, July 8, 2015 - 12:27pm

A cracked or chipped windshield is always a reason to act fast. Any windshield damage, no matter how small or how far from your line of sight, will compromise your vehicle's structural integrity. Only intact windshields will sustain serious force without cracking or shattering completely, so even if a chip is tiny, it may decrease your safety. However, the summer heat acts as a catalyst to windshield damage, so it's especially important to pay attention this time of year.

At Glass Doctor^® of Calgary, we know that summer's warmth is always welcome in our neck of the woods. We also know what it does to auto glass, especially glass that's already chipped or cracked. Fortunately, there are some precautions that will maximize your windshield care this summer. Whether your windshield is chipped, cracked or fully intact, your summer safety depends on the following five windshield care guidelines:

1. Act fast

If you notice a hairline fracture, you should only consider one option: schedule your windshield crack repair as soon as possible. We always do our best to accommodate same-day repairs, and our glass specialists are trained to complete them in less than 15-20 minutes on average.

2. Be a picky parker

With all your windows rolled up, direct sunlight will quickly increase cabin pressure and expand existing cracks or chips. Park in a garage if possible; if not, find a shaded area and use a protective cover or visor. Also, crack a window to reduce cabin pressure buildup.

3. Don't slam doors

Close your doors very gently. Temperature and pressure changes are the biggest risks this summer, and when you slam a door shut, the sudden change may worsen existing damage.

4. Beware of afternoon car washes

It's always a good idea to wash your car before or after the sun's hottest hours. Damage will spread if you splash water on a piping hot windshield, so give it some time to cool gradually. If you must wash your car during the middle of the day, do it in a shaded place.

5. Reduce your use of A/C

If your windshield is damaged at all, don't blast the air conditioning until it's repaired. This creates opposing temperatures and may cause irreparable harm to the glass.

Call us at 403-366-1276 to schedule your windshield crack repair today or click here to schedule an online appointment.

Windshield Care During Summer

Brad Voreis — Wed, 08 Jul 2015 17:00:00 +0000

Windshield Care During Summer

Brad Voreis

Wednesday, July 8, 2015 - 12:00pm

As the temperature increases, most people crank up their vehicle's A/C and enjoy the cool breeze. However, this joy can quickly turn into misery if you have a tiny crack in your windshield. Cranking up the A/C in the cabin creates an opposing air force further stressing your cracked windshield. As a result, the tiny, almost unnoticeable damage will grow, eventually requiring windshield replacement. The best solution is to trust your friends at Glass Doctor^® of Barrie to perform efficient and cost-effective windshield chip repair as soon as you notice the damage. In the mean time, use the following auto glass repair tips to protect your windshield.

Beat the Heat with Windshield Chip Repair

The best way to make sure your chips don't turn into cracks is to repair it as soon as possible. Glass Doctor of Barrie offers convenient same day appointments and can finish your repair in less than 30 minutes.

Hold Off of the A/C

If you are riding with a chipped windshield, it's best to simply roll the windows down or fight through the discomfort until your windshield crack repair is complete. If the crack grows too much, you will have to have your entire windshield replaced.

Avoid Baking the Interior

Avoid parking your car in direct sunlight with the windows completely sealed, which significantly increases the pressure in your vehicle. Increased pressure causes tiny chips and cracks to expand. It's best to leave your windows cracked to alleviate the pressure.

Close Doors with Ease

It's important to close your doors gently to reduce the likelihood of the crack spreading.

Park Your Vehicle in Shade or a Garage

If your vehicle needs windshield crack repair, avoid parking it in direct sunlight to prevent the sun from increasing the temperature of your glass.

Wait to Wash Your Vehicle

Spraying cold water on a hot, cracked windshield will cause the damage to grow. Instead, it's best to park the vehicle in the shade to allow the windshield to cool or wait until twilight to wash it.

Summertime Auto Glass Experts

Although the crack may be small today, several factors can cause it to grow until it can no longer be repaired and must be replaced. In any case, it's best to contact Glass Doctor of Barrie at 705-812-6623 as soon as you notice a crack for fast and cost-effective windshield crack repair. Or for your convenience, schedule an appointment for your consultation today.

Windshield Care During Summer

Brad Voreis — Wed, 08 Jul 2015 15:45:33 +0000

Windshield Care During Summer

Brad Voreis

Wednesday, July 8, 2015 - 10:45am

Your vehicle’s windshield requires careful attention and handling all year round, but summer is the season when you really need to manage your glass responsibly. The scorching-hot conditions often lead to car owners cranking the A/C up to extremely high levels and soaking their cars in ice-cold water in an attempt to cool their vehicle down. Unfortunately, these actions may lead to severely damaged windshields, as small chips mature into long, dangerous cracks.

Windshield Chip Repair in Saskatoon

If you ever notice any damage to your windshield, it is absolutely vital to get it fixed as soon as possible, regardless of how insignificant it may appear to be. Glass Doctor^® of Saskatoon offers a windshield chip repair service that is able to save your car’s panes. Our experienced glass specialists are able to assess your car on the very same day that you call, with most repairs conducted and completed in less than 30 minutes.

Tips For Summer Windshield Care

To help prevent your car from developing extensive windshield damage in the dangerous summer months, take note of the following tips:

Settle In The Shade: Always make an effort to park your car away from sunlight. Extended periods of sun exposure will cause your windshield's temperature to heat up to dangerous levels.

Shut Your Doors Carefully: Sudden jolts and changes to pressure levels in your car will unsettle fragile windshield glass, ultimately leading to extensive damage.

Go Easy On The Air Conditioning: Consistently cranking up the air conditioning units so they’re operating a full capacity may create a nice cool breeze, but it also has the potential to cause many problems for your glass. Frequently blasting the A/C will create opposing temperatures on the windshield, making any existing damage to your windshield significantly worse.

Wait For A While Until Washing: Throwing cold water on top of hot windshield glass is asking for trouble. Not only will this make existing chips spread out into cracks, it may also damage the windshield to the point where a repair is no longer possible.

For professional Windshield Repair & Replacement and all other auto glass services, contact Glass Doctor of Saskatoon today at 306-477-4527, or use our online booking service to arrange a free vehicle consultation. Our customer representatives work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; we're ready to take your call at any time.