Your car windshield and windows don't have to be cracked to require repair or replacement. There are other issues with the glass that necessitate immediate repair.
1. Seal Failure
The seals around your window do more than keep moisture out. They are also there to ensure your window remains firmly in place. Over time, the seal can begin to fail. This is especially common in dry, hot areas where dry rot is common. You may notice that the black seal around the front windshield is cracked or peeling, for example. In some cases, the seal may look fine, but you may have water leaking inside around the edges when it rains. Another problem sign is if the window shakes or rattles when you are driving. Depending on the state of the glass, you can have the whole windshield replaced or you can have it resealed.
2. Hazing
Hazing is the result of small scratches on the surface of the glass. Windshield wipers are the main culprit. If you frequently use old, damaged blades, they will leave behind small scratches on the windshield. This can also be caused by using the wipers when the glass is dry. The blades will scrape dirt particles across the glass and cause the small scratches that result in hazing. Your window may also experience hazing if you drive on dirt roads often or live somewhere with frequent windstorms. There are no repair options for hazing, so replacement is the best solution.
3. Delamination
Delamination is more common on the side and rear windows of your car since these are often treated with tinting film. Delamination can also occur on front windshields if they have a shatter-proof film installed. The problem is obvious, as you will see the film bubble, pucker, or peel away. If the film is for tinting, you can sometimes have it removed and the glass cleaned. You can then have a new film installed if you still want the windows to be tinted. In the event the delamination is on the front windshield, replacement is necessary to ensure that the glass is still shatter-proof and safe.
4. Pitting
Pitting occurs when small gravel frequently hits the window, causing small pits to form on the surface of the glass. These pits aren't deep enough to cause cracks, but they can eventually compromise the clarity of the window. This is especially true at night when a network of pits can refract light and make it hard to see. There are no repair options for extensive pitting. The window will need to be replaced.
For more information about auto glass replacement services, contact a local auto shop.
