What to do if you have a broken windshield?
You are driving down one of our many southern California highways and BAM! a rock hits your windshield and cracks it. It may be a small chip or it may crack all the way across the windshield. In either case it needs to be repaired or replaced as soon as possible. To start off, windshields are what is called laminated glass. The windshield is actually two layers of glass with a layer of durable vinyl melted in between them. These three layers combine with each other to form and very strong barrier between you and the elements. So don't be worried, the windshield won't fall out or cave in on you. With that being said, what is your next step? What should you do? Well here is what I would do...
First: Head to google and find a few glass shops with some positive reviews.
Second: Call these places and ask some questions.
Questions like:
Do they have a physical location? (This way if you have any problems with your new windshield you have some recourse, I wouldn't use a company if they didn't have a shop.)
Are they replacing the molding(s)? (I see a lot of cars with the old molding just glued back down or a universal molding that does not fit properly.)
How soon can you drive the car after they windshield has been replaced? (most urethanes on the market take between 3-12 hours to cure for safe driving. If they say you can drive right away, call somewhere else! Even top of the line urethanes takes at least 1 hour to cure before driving.)
Any reputable glass shop will take the time to answer your questions and help you to understand the whole process. Use your gut when you are talking to the people on the phone, are they knowledgeable? Are they patient? Do they care? You may have to call several places to find a couple good ones. Once you have found a great shop go ahead and set up an appointment and enjoy your new clear view!