Windshield Replacement Bixby
With windshield replacement Bixby commercial vehicles, such as trucks, vans, and buses, are the backbone of many industries. They help in transporting goods and services across distances and under different weather conditions. Windshields are one important component of these commercial vehicles, which provide visibility and protection for the driver and the vehicle.
If the windshield of a commercial vehicle gets broken, scratched or damaged, it will become essential to look for reliable windshield replacement Bixby. If you are new to windshield replacement for commercial vehicles, then this detailed guide will certainly help you here.
Why windshield replacement is important for commercial vehicles?
Here are the key reasons why windshield replacement is important in commercial vehicles:
- The most crucial function of a windshield is to provide a clear and unobstructed view of the road. Any damage, such as cracks or chips, can impede the driver’s vision and increase the risk of accidents. However, windshield replacement will offer enhanced safety to the driver and the vehicle.
- A windshield is also important for the structural integrity of commercial vehicles, especially in the case of rollovers or accidents. A damaged windshield weakens this structural support and can put your and your vehicle’s safety at risk.
- The windshield shields the driver and passengers from the elements, such as rain, snow, and wind. A damaged windshield may fail to provide adequate protection. It will also result in discomfort and distractions for the driver.
- A damaged or poorly replaced windshield can significantly reduce its value. In contrast, windshield replacement can be an invaluable solution to maintain a vehicle’s value.
Which glass type is suitable for windshield replacement in commercial vehicles?
Let’s get into the details of different glass types available out there to see which can be the best solution for windshield replacement.
So, here we go:
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass is arguably the most common type of windshield glass. It features two layers of glass with a layer of PVB in between. Laminated glass is designed to prevent shattering, making it a safe option for windshields. Above all, it provides a high level of protection from the elements and, therefore, is considered a standard choice for most vehicles.
Tempered Glass
Tempered glass can shatter into small but harmless pieces when broken. While it is commonly used for side and rear windows, it is not suitable for windshields. Windshields need to maintain their structural integrity, so tempered glass is not an appropriate choice.
Acoustic Glass
Acoustic glass is a specialized type of laminated glass that incorporates additional soundproofing layers to reduce noise from outside the vehicle. This type of glass is often used in commercial vehicles, like long-haul trucking, to enhance driver comfort.
When do you need to consider a commercial vehicle’s windshield replacement Bixby?
It is always better to understand the key signs of when you need to consider windshield replacement for your commercial vehicle to maintain driver safety and the vehicle’s structural integrity in the best possible way. Here are the key signs of when to consider a commercial vehicle’s windshield replacement that you must know.
So, here we go:
- Size and location of the crack
- Chips are smaller than cracks but may lead to the need for windshield replacement.
- Separation of the PVB layer from the glass layers, aka Delamination.
- Hazing or discoloration can affect the visibility of the windshield.
- Scratches impacting visibility and safety
Steps involved in the windshield replacement Bixby for commercial vehicles.
Replacing the windshield on a commercial vehicle is a multi-step process. It usually requires proper planning and careful execution of the process for successful, secure, and accurate windshield replacement Bixby.
Here, we will have a look at the key steps involved in the process for a better understanding of the windshield replacement procedure for commercial vehicles.
So, here we go:
Assess the windshield damage
The first step in windshield replacement is to assess the type of windshield damage. This process involves a thorough inspection of the existing windshield to determine the type and severity of the damage.
Assessment steps usually include:
- Measuring the size and location of chips and cracks.
- Understanding if the windshield has suffered an impact
- Inspect the condition of the windshield frame and seal
Once you have assessed windshield damage, it is always better to document your assessment to make insurance claims easier.
Select the right windshield to replace
OEM windshields and aftermarket windshields are the two key options when it comes to choosing the right windshield to replace.
OEM windshields are produced by the same manufacturer that supplied the original windshield for the vehicle. In contrast, Aftermarket windshields are produced by companies other than the original vehicle manufacturer.
However, the final selection between OEM vs. Aftermarket windshields depends upon your personal needs and preferences.
Windshield installation and sealing
The technician will remove the old windshield carefully to avoid any damage to the vehicle. Experienced technicians usually have adequate tools and techniques to complete the old windshield removal process carefully.
Then they will clean the windshield frame and ensure that it is free of rust, dirt, and debris.
Now, it is time to place a new windshield into the frame and seal it in the right position using high-quality adhesives. The process of installing and sealing windshields is the most important one because any issue here can lead to water leakage, reduced structural integrity, and noise issues.
Therefore, technicians usually follow manufacturer guidelines for the correct installation procedure.
Quality control is important.
Quality control checks are imperative once the windshield replacement process is completed. It will help in ensuring that the windshield is securely fitted and sealed in its place. You should also get any adhesive residue cleaned on your windshield for optimal visibility.
Keep your windshield maintained.
Proper maintenance is essential to extend the life and functionality of the replaced windshield. Follow the tips below to keep your windshield maintained properly:
- Clean the windshield regularly to remove dirt, dust, and contaminants.
- Always use mild detergent and a soft cloth to avoid scratching the glass.
- Do not use abrasive or harsh chemicals when cleaning the windshield. Otherwise, it will cause damage to the windshield.
- Inspect the windshield for signs of damage or stress regularly and get it repaired ASAP to avoid frequent windshield replacements.
Final Thoughts
Windshield replacement for commercial vehicles is a critical aspect of driver and vehicle safety. Therefore, it is always better to learn about windshield replacement for commercial vehicles to make more informed decisions.