Specialized Windshield Replacement Options And Features

Windshield replacement is big business in the United States. According to the National Windshield Repair Association (NWRA), the industry is worth more than $5 billion. The same organization also cites the benefits of properly performed windshield repair which are:

• Restoring the glass strength and structural integrity which prevents further deterioration of the affected glass.

• Reduces haze and scattering of light within the affected area.

• The glass's optical clarity is greatly improved.

• The highly visible damage is significantly reduced.

• The windshield wipers are able to operate without encountering bumps in their sweep path.

There are windshield options in the market that are highly specialized. These range from tinted packages to heated windshields and are a culmination of many years of research and the availability of cutting edge technology. These specialized windshield replacement options ensure that you have an enjoyable driving experience, reduce the likelihood of damage to your windshield and greatly improve road visibility. However, despite their obvious advantages some of them are suitable for certain types of vehicles only. Below are some of the general categories and features of the specialized windshield replacement options.

1. There are windshields that are fitted with protective films. These films reduce the impact that rocks and other types of debris have on the windshield. The films and coatings are adhered on to the outer part of the windshield through the use of some specialized heat-shrinking tools. Polyester is used in the manufacture of these clear and specialized windshield coatings. Apart from improving road visibility for the driver, these polyester coatings also make it easier to clear snow, rain and even keep out excess UV rays.

2. It is not uncommon for most vehicle owners to associate windshield upgrades with auto glass that has been tinted. Tinted glass is available in a variety of patterns and colors. In the US, some states have specific laws that regulate the use of tinted glass. Some of the benefits associated with tinted glass include: enhanced aesthetic appeal, preventing the fading of the car's upholstery, providing extra protection against shattering glass in the event of an accident and filtering out excess sunlight. Just like any other technical undertaking, windshield replacement can also be undertaken on a do-it-yourself basis. However, windshield replacement experts insist on getting an expert to carry out the replacement so as to avoid those unsightly cracks and bubbles that characterize most do-it-yourself windshield repairs.

3. Several vehicle manufacturers have come up with rear windshields that are capable of automatic defrosting. This is achieved through the use of windshield embedded metal strips which are then connected to the electrical wiring system of the car. This allows heat to be passed onto the entire effective area of the windshield. For some time now, these windshields have primarily been installed at the rear side of the cars. However, advances in technology have made it possible to have the same technology employed at the front windshield. Vehicles with front defrosting windshields use a form of wiper less technology that allow for the rapid clearance of rain and snow using highly compressed air. The compressed air can easily be heated during the cold winter months.

4. It might seem that most of the specialized windshield replacement features are all about protection. However, a feature such as the Heads up Displays (HUD) is all about driver convenience and comfort. This feature provides the driver with the vehicle's panel projection on the windshield. The projection enables the driver to concentrate on the road while getting a glimpse of important parameters such as the fuel level and speed of the vehicle.

Irrespective of whether you want to make your ride more luxurious or safe, there are numerous options and upgrades that you can go with. Get in a touch with a professional auto glass company and get several price quotes before settling on one.