The Beginners Guide to Becoming an Informed Customer of Auto Glass Replacement

Important Safety Facts You Should Know About Your Windshield

• 10% of all accidents are vehicle rollovers that cause almost 11,000 fatalities annually
• The FMVSS 216 Standard says a roof must sustain no greater than a 5" crush when one and a half times the vehicles weight is applied to the "A" pillar
• 70% of a vehicles roof strength is supported by the windshield
• Vehicle occupants held inside the vehicle have a 25% greater chance of escaping injury
• 75% of victims ejected from their automobiles are fatalities
• Passenger airbags use the windshield for a backup and can only function properly if the windshield remains in place during a crash

Not All Windshields That Are Chipped or Cracked Need to Be Replaced.

Depending on the type and size of the break, some windshields can be repaired.  Most insurance companies require that a windshield be replaced if the damage is in the driver's direct line of sight or if the size is larger than a quarter. There are systems on the market that repair cracks larger than a quarter, but we have found them not to be as effective. LoneStar Windshield and Glass believes that long cracks in a windshield, even if repaired, compromise the structural integrity of the windshield and  the vehicle's roof and therefore the windshield should be replaced.

Note: Due to the method of manufacturing, heated windshields and laminated backglasses cannot be repaired. Repairing this type of glass can result in serious personal injury.

The professionals at LoneStar Windshield and Glass can evaluate your windshield break to determine if it is repairable or if it requires replacement as well as windshield repair.  We are trained in proper installation procedures for all domestic and foreign car windshield replacement as well as windshield repair. 

Call or stop by our Hewitt service center today and have your windshield inspected absolutely free.

Facts and Myths About Windshields, Auto Glass and Auto Glass Repair

1.   Auto glass from the dealer is so much better and is less likely to break.

Myth: All glass manufacturers must comply with certain federal safety standards, set by the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. A PPG window without a GM label on it is the exact same window and will not provide any extra safety, nor will it have a better chance of not being damaged.

2.   My friend says he can get a windshield from a junkyard and replace my windshield. He has seen it done before and can install it as good as if I pay a professional to do it.

Myth: Not using the proper Urethane sealant (and other installation material) could compromise the safety of your vehicle and could put you in danger, especially during a rollover accident.  Used auto glass, even when installed by a professional shop, in some cases, can be risky.  We highly recommend a brand new, contamination-free windshield from a reliable source.

3.   I was told that if I was given a lower price by another glass company that I will get substandard work.

Myth: Different shops have different pricing based on their overhead.  Some shops have higher costs, some have lower.  Just because a shop has a lower price does not necessarily mean that you will get low quality.  Ask questions when shopping for glass replacement.  For example: ask them if they use any type of shortcut method or do they thoroughly remove the old urethane sealant from the vehicle's pinchweld. (where the windshield rests) and do they use primer on both the pinchweld and the glass.  Failing to follow any of these steps could result in the windshield not properly adhering to the vehicle's body. Also, ask if the shop provides a lifetime warranty that covers defects in the glass or workmanship.

4.   Windshield cracks are like snowflakes; no two are exactly alike.

Fact: Windshield repair technology has come a long way in the past 10 years.  If you or someone you know have had a windshield repaired before and were not satisfied, keep in mind that repair technology has improved significantly. Windshield repair can be a viable option to replacement.  Also, since no 2 auto glass repairs are alike, they can differ from car to car and from chip to chip.  Auto glass repair can be a great option to save money.

Insurance Claims Welcome

Satisfaction Guaranteed!

We offer a Lifetime Warranty on all auto glass replacement. With LoneStar Windshield and Glass, Quality is Guaranteed.

Trust your next windshield or auto glass repair to the professionals at LoneStar Windshield and Glass.

Questions?  Contact us.