Change of Seasons Increases Risk of Chipped Windshields

PITTSBURGH--March 19, 2004--As winter's snow recedes, revealing an array of salt, sand and other materials applied to the nation's roadways to improve traction, the potential for this debris to become airborne and chip windshields is significantly greater. That's why PPG PROSTARS certified auto glass technicians are urging vehicle owners to pay extra attention to their windshields in the spring.

"The windshield is more than just a practical device; it's a critical component of a car's safety system," said Rick Robertson, vice president of Auto Glass of Indiana, a PPG PROSTARS participant. "It allows the passenger-side airbag to function properly by acting as a backboard, and in a rollover accident, the windshield provides crucial crush-resistance support for the roof. That's why it's vitally important for motorists to inspect their windshields periodically."

Any chip or similar damage --with road vibrations, jolts from potholes and extreme changes in temperature -- can easily worsen into a crack. However, many chips can be repaired by certified auto glass professionals.

"By repairing a chip early," Robertson said, "you not only restore the structural integrity of the windshield's glass, you also prevent the chip from turning into a crack, which may require a windshield replacement."

Windshield replacements often cost over four times more than a repair. In addition, most insurance companies will pay for windshield repair, waiving the deductible for policyholders with comprehensive coverage.

"Most chips can be inexpensively repaired depending on their location and severity," Robertson said, "but larger ones and ones in the acute vision area mean a windshield must be replaced."

A windshield's acute vision area is above the steering wheel, roughly the size of an 8.5-by-11-inch piece of paper. Inspection laws governing windshield repair vary by state, so PPG PROSTARS technicians suggest checking with a certified windshield repair and replacement specialist familiar with the regulations in your state.

Cold temperatures can affect the quality of repairs and replacements as well. Temperatures lower than 40 degrees Fahrenheit and rain or snow compromise the quality and safety of outdoor or mobile glass service. Experts recommend that you take your vehicle to a glass shop that uses original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts and adhesive materials that won't be affected by freezing temperatures.

"Having your damaged windshield repaired or replaced by a reputable, reliable, quality auto glass shop is important to your safety, no matter what the season," Robertson said.

Year-round Windshield Dos and Don'ts

Do:

-- Have chips repaired before they spread.

-- Take your car to a certified windshield repair professional such as a PPG PROSTARS shop to get chips repaired.

-- Ask a certified repair specialist about your state's regulations for repair and replacement.

Don't:

-- Use hot water to defrost your windshield.

-- Turn heat and fan settings to maximum in freezing temperatures.

-- Chop at icy patches on windshield.

PPG PROSTARS is a nationwide alliance of certified auto glass professionals who back their work with a national warranty. To learn more about safe, quality, professional auto glass repair and replacement, or to find a PPG PROSTARS participant near you, visit www.ppgprostars.com and use the dealer locator, or call 1-866-2THEPROS.