-
Can I Wash My Car After a Vehicle Glass Repair?
To Wash or Not to Wash Your Car After Windshield Repair
Proper Car Washing Procedures After a Windshield Repair
When you have your vehicle’s windshield repaired or replaced in Miami, Palm Beach, South Miami, and Coral Gables, FL, the most important thing to remember is not to wash your car right away. This may seem silly, but if you want to keep your new windshield looking good for as long as possible, it’s very important to follow this rule. Here is USA Auto Glass Florida’s best approach to washing your car after getting the windshield repaired or replaced.
When to Wash a Car After Windshield Repair Service
The general rule is to wait at least 24 hours after the windshield repair or replacement for the adhesive or glass to settle and adhere properly. This means that, typically, it is not okay to take the car to an automated car wash until 24 hours have passed to avoid having to have your windshield repaired or replaced again. However, if you cannot wait, you may manually wash your car any time after the service has been performed. Just be sure to avoid spraying water at high pressure directly at the windshield, as this could potentially cause damage to the new glass and/or sealant. At USA Auto Glass Florida, we understand that as frustrating as it is to have your windshield crack repaired, it is even more frustrating to have to do it a second time. Therefore, we recommend waiting 24 hours to have your car washed.
How to Wash Your Car After Windshield Repair Service
When manually washing your car after having a windshield repair or replacement, it’s important to take extra care not to spray high-pressure water on the new glass and sealant. The best way to do this is by using low-pressure water when cleaning your car and being careful around the new windshield by not spraying directly at it. It’s also important to make sure you dry your car thoroughly after washing so no water is left between the glass and the sealant.
When to Contact a Professional Windshield Repair Company
If you have any concerns about whether or not it is okay to wash your car after a windshield repair service, it’s always best to contact a professional windshield repair company for advice. Professional windshield service technicians will be able to advise you on the best options for keeping your new windshield looking great for as long as possible.
Contact USA Auto Glass Florida for Windshield Repair
At USA Auto Glass Florida, we provide quality services for both residential and commercial customers in need of windshield repair and replacement services. We guarantee all of our work, and our team has over 40 years of combined auto glass experience, so you can trust us to provide exceptional windshield repair service to the communities of Miami, Palm Beach, South Miami, and Coral Gables, FL. Contact us if you have any questions about the best way to care for your new windshield after having it repaired or replaced. Our team looks forward to helping you keep your car looking its best.
-
Can Hot Water Crack a Windshield?
The Effects of Hot Water on a Windshield and Safe Defrosting
Can hot water crack your windshield? This is a question that many ask, and the answer is yes, it can. However, there are ways to prevent your windshield from cracking. USA Auto Glass Florida offers crack windshield repair and windshield replacements in Miami, Palm Beach, South Miami, and Coral Gables, FL, and explains how hot water can affect your windshield.
Should You Use Hot Water to Defrost Your Windshield?
Using hot water to defrost your windshield is not recommended, as the drastic temperature change can weaken the glass and cause it to crack. It is best to use a commercial de-icing product or a mixture of rubbing alcohol and water to defrost your windshield. Additionally, always be sure to use a scraper that has been specifically designed for automotive use. Never try to scrape off the ice with anything other than an approved scraper since it can cause scratches on the surface of your windshield. Finally, make sure that you remove snow from your vehicle before driving in cold weather. This will help prevent the buildup of ice on the outside of your windshield, which can also lead to a windshield crack. With these tips in mind, you can help reduce your risk of experiencing a cracked windshield due to hot water or extreme temperature changes.
How to Safely Defrost a Windshield
To safely defrost a windshield, begin by turning on the vehicle’s heater and fan. This will help to gradually increase the temperature inside the car, which will start to melt any ice that has accumulated on the outside of your windshield. If you need to speed up this process, then you can use a mixture of rubbing alcohol and water or a commercial de-icing product. Always be sure to use an approved scraper when removing ice from your windshield. Additionally, it is important to regularly remove snow from the outside of your vehicle as this helps prevent ice buildup and pressure. Following these tips will ensure that you can defrost your windshield without compromising its structural integrity.
Tips for Windshield Repair and Care
Proper windshield maintenance is essential to extending the life of your car’s glass. First, be sure to regularly clean your windshield with an approved glass cleaner and a soft cloth. Additionally, make sure that you check the condition of your windshield wipers often – replace them if they appear worn or cracked. If there are any scratches, chips, or cracks in the glass itself, it is best to have them fixed right away. This will help prevent the cracks from spreading across your windshield and ensure that you have maximum visibility while driving. Finally, it’s beneficial to apply Rain-X to the windshield of your vehicle to decrease the ice and water’s ability to adhere to the glass. With these tips, you can help ensure that your windshield stays safe and clear for many years to come.
Contact USA Auto Glass Florida for Windshield Repair
At USA Auto Glass Florida, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality auto glass repair services for our customers in Miami, Palm Beach, South Miami, and Coral Gables, FL. We can repair small chips and cracks that may be preventing you from having a clear view of the road or replace your entire windshield as necessary. Our technicians use only the highest quality materials and employ up-to-date techniques to ensure that your vehicle’s glass is properly secured and safe to drive. With USA Auto Glass Florida, you can rest assured knowing that your car will be taken care of with the utmost attention and care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for windshield crack repairs or windshield replacement.
-
Why Would a Windshield Break From the Inside?
Have you ever seen a crack in your vehicle’s windshield that looks like it started from the inside? This type of crack is called a stress crack, and it can be caused by several factors. In this blog post, we will discuss the common causes of windshield stress cracks and how to prevent them from occurring.What Is a Stress Crack?
A stress crack is a fracture or line in the glass that appears to start from the middle or center of the windshield, rather than along an edge. It often looks like a starburst with several lines radiating out from one point. Stress cracks are generally caused by changes in temperature, wear and tear, loud noises, manufacturing defects, poor installation, or glass quality issues.
Temperature Changes
One of the primary causes of stress cracks is extreme temperature changes. As you drive around Miami and Palm Beach on hot summer days, your car’s interior can heat up quickly. This sudden change in temperature can cause the glass to expand and contract rapidly which can lead to cracking. To avoid this type of damage to your windshield, try to park in shaded areas when possible and take advantage of cooler temperatures at night for longer drives.
Manufacturing Defects, Poor Installation, or Glass Quality Issues
Another common cause of stress cracks is due to manufacturing defects or poor installation practices. When purchasing new windshields for your vehicle, make sure they are coming from reputable brands and installers who have experience with automotive glass repairs. USA Auto Glass specializes in providing customers with quality OEM approved auto glass products that are installed properly so you won’t have worry about any unexpected issues down the road.
Wear & Tear
Another potential cause of stress cracking is due to wear and tear over time. If you constantly open and close your vehicle doors forcefully or slam them shut when parking your car, then this could eventually lead to cracking in your windshield as well as other parts of your car such as windows or roof panels.
Loud Noises
The last major factor that can cause stress cracks is loud noises such as explosions near your car or truck while driving around Miami and Palm Beach streets. Noises like these can create vibration throughout the entire frame which puts extra pressure on all components including your windows and windshield. These pressures can eventually lead to cracking overtime.
How Can You Prevent Internal Windscreen Cracks?
The good news is that there are steps you can take to reduce the chances of cracking occurring on your windshield from inside forces like vibrations and temperature fluctuations:
- Cover your windshield
- Window tinting
- Warm-up/cool down gradually
- Lower music volume
- Don’t delay repairs
Why Choose USA Auto Glass in Miami and Palm Beach Florida?
When it comes time for repairs or replacements USA Auto Glass in Miami and Palm Beach Florida should be your first choice! With over 25 years serving South Florida we have extensive experience dealing with all types of auto glass issues! Our friendly staff speaks Spanish for added convenience and free estimates make budgeting for repairs easy! We offer same-day services, so you won’t have to wait long before getting back on the road again! We also provide mobile service making our services even more convenient for getting work done on-the-go!
Contact USA Auto Glass in Florida today to get your windshield repair or replacement in Miami and Palm Beach, FL, started today!
-
Is It Safe to Replace Your Own Car’s Windshield Yourself?
Even the most experienced of DIYers might want to think twice before attempting to replace their own car windshield. Replacing a windshield is not an easy job and requires specialized tools, materials, and skills that you may not have. If done incorrectly, you risk serious injury or even death. That’s why it’s a better idea to leave this job to the professionals at USA Auto Glass in Florida.
The Pros and Cons of Replacing Your Own Windshield
Replacing a windshield is a task that seems simple enough, but it can quickly become complex and difficult if you don’t have the right tools or expertise. Many people attempt to replace their own windshields in order to save money and time, but it’s important to know the pros and cons of this option before making any decisions. Let’s look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of replacing your own windshield.
Pros of Replacing Your Own Windshield
- Cost – If you don’t have insurance coverage, it can be cheaper to replace your windshield yourself—if you have the right tools and knowledge.
- Time – You can fix it when you want, where you want.
- Learning Experience – Replacing a windshield is an interesting challenge that can teach many new skills.
Cons of Replacing Your Own Windshield
- Lack of Experience – Most people do not have experience with replacing their own windshields, so mistakes are likely.
- Pressure Application – Applying too much pressure when removing or installing the glass can break it beyond repair.
- Time – The process takes much longer than having someone else do it for you; this could lead to further damage due to leaving the car exposed for extended periods of time.
- Insurance Coverage – Some insurers will not cover repairs done by anyone other than qualified professionals; check with yours first before attempting a DIY job.
- Warranty – Many manufacturers offer warranties on their products, but those warranties are voided if non-professionals install them.
- Safety – Without proper training and equipment, there is an increased chance of injury or further damage to your vehicle during the process of installation.
- Lack of Proper Equipment – Special tools are needed to safely remove and install a new windshield properly; these tools may not be accessible without professional assistance.
- Technology – Newer cars include features such as rain sensors and lane departure warnings that require special calibration after installation. If done incorrectly, these features may no longer function properly after the installation process is complete.
Don’t Risk a DIY Call USA Auto Glass in Florida
USA Auto Glass in Florida has been serving South Florida for more than 25 years! Our team of experienced technicians can provide same-day services with free estimates and work with all insurance carriers throughout South Florida. Our mobile service comes right to your door so that you don’t have to worry about navigating around town with an unwieldy piece of auto glass that requires special handling. We also have specialists on staff for fleet accounts as well as technicians who are bilingual in Spanish if needed! So why take unnecessary risks when USA Auto Glass in Florida has got you covered?
Contact USA Auto Glass in Florida today to get your windshield replacement project in Miami and Palm Beach, FL, underway with the pros!
-
Can an Auto Glass Repair Shop Fix a Scratched Windshield?
Have you recently noticed a scratch on your windshield? If so, you may be wondering if it can be fixed and how much it will cost. Many people are surprised to learn that it is possible to fix a scratched windshield with the help of an auto glass repair shop. Let’s explore the process an auto glass repair shop would use to assess and fix damage, buffing or polishing options, why you shouldn’t attempt to repair a scratched windshield yourself, as well as the benefits of visiting an auto glass repair shop like USA Auto Glass in Florida.How Does an Auto Glass Repair Shop Assess Damage?
An auto glass repair shop can assess the severity of your windshield’s scratches with the help of a magnifying glass, light source and ruler which allows them to measure the depth and width of each scratch. This helps them determine if it is possible to buff out minor surface scratches (less than 1/32-inch deep) or if more serious repairs are necessary such as replacing all or part of your windshield.
How Is Buffing or Polishing Done on Windshield Glass?
Depending on how severe your scratches are, an auto glass repair shop may be able to buff them out using special tools such as diamond pads, wet sanding paper and polishing compound. This method requires precision because too much pressure could cause further damage or leave a hazy film over the windshield due to heat buildup during polishing. The technician must also consider surrounding paint jobs when buffing out scratches near car bodywork or door trimming pieces since they can easily become damaged by heat buildup during polishing.
Why Shouldn’t You Repair a Scratched Windshield Yourself?
Even if you think you have identified the right tool for repairing your scratched windshield, attempting DIY repairs can be risky because there is no guarantee that you won’t make matters worse or void any existing warranty you have on your car’s windshield In addition, without professional training and specialized equipment, it’s unlikely that you will achieve satisfactory results from DIY attempts at repairing your scratched windshield.
What Are the Benefits of Having an Auto Glass Repair Shop Repair Your Scratched Windshield?
The biggest benefit of taking your car’s scratched windshield to an auto glass repair shop like USA Auto Glass in Florida is access to highly trained technicians who have expertise in assessing and repairing cars’ windshields efficiently and safely without risking further damage or voiding any existing warranties. In addition, they will ensure that all repairs are done according to industry standards so that you get long lasting results from their workmanship when they finish repairing your scratched windshield for you!
Why Should You Choose USA Auto Glass in Florida to Repair Your Scratched Windshield?
USA Auto Glass in Florida has been providing customers with top notch auto glass services for years now including fixing cracked windows and replacing broken windshields quickly and affordably! Our team of highly skilled technicians specialize in providing quality services while keeping customer satisfaction top priority so that every customer leaves feeling satisfied with their service experience! We also use only high-quality materials for all repairs ensuring that all jobs done at USA Auto Glass meet industry standards for long lasting results!
So don’t wait another minute! Contact USA Auto Glass today at (954) 577-1234 for quality auto glass service in Miami and Palm Beach, FL backed by industry leading standards!
-
Do All Windshield Chips Need Repairing?
Windshield Chip Repairs in Florida
You hear the loud “ping” when driving and suddenly see a tiny chip in your windshield. It’s not your fault, but it isn’t a happy sight. That tiny chip may leave you wondering, do all windshield chips need repairing? The answer may surprise you. USA Auto Glass in Florida is here for all your windshield repair and replacement needs in Miami, FL, and the surrounding areas. Whether you need a small repair or a completely new windshield, we can handle it all. We’ll even come to you to repair your windshield. We understand the stress of driving with a chipped windshield, just waiting for it to spread to the rest of the windshield. We’ll dive into everything you need to know about repairing tiny windshield cracks.
Difference Between a Chipped and Cracked Windshield
Windshield chips are typically minor blemishes caused by a break in your windshield’s portion of a glass layer. They can usually be repaired if they are small enough. If the chip is deep enough to penetrate the inside layer of plastic, it’s best to get a windshield replacement. Windshield cracks are a line where a single piece of glass is started to completely separate. They often begin as small cracks and grow into large cracks. Tiny particles of dirt and debris often get stuck in these cracks, making them worse.
Florida Windshield Laws
Florida has strict windshield laws to keep drivers and passengers safe in vehicles. The Florida Transportation Code Section 316.610 states that driving an unsafe car is a civil infraction due to defective or faulty equipment. A simple crack or chip in your windshield may violate this section. A police officer will determine if the shape, size, and length of the windshield chip impair the driver’s vision. The good news for drivers in Florida is that car insurance companies must pay for windshield repair costs.
Rock Chip Windshield Repairs & Replacements
Our experts will determine if your windshield needs repair depending on the chip’s location, size, and depth. It surprises many people when their tiny rock chip needs a windshield replacement. We often decide to replace a windshield because we know that the chip becomes deeper and deeper over time. It’s critical to have your windshield chip examined as soon as possible to determine if you need a new windshield. It will save you time and money in the future.
Can I Perform Auto Glass Repair?
There are countless videos about repairing windshield chips and cracks. The answer is that you should always let the professionals handle auto glass repairs. Our technicians undergo extensive auto glass training. We perform auto glass repair on a daily basis so that we can save you time and money in the long run. We use high-grade materials to ensure your windshield chip or crack is repaired in the best possible way. We can also work with advanced driver assistance systems that have components that need to integrate with the windshield. These components must seamlessly connect, or they will not work correctly.
Is It Safe To Drive With a Cracked Windshield?
The short answer is “no.” A small chip or crack may seem like an unsightly little blemish, but it can quickly become a significant issue. Windshields are one of the most important parts of your car. A visual obstruction can lead to deadly accidents. The windshield provides safety in the event of a rollover because the force of the wreck is partially transferred through the windshield. A windshield crack becomes a weak point in the structure, compromising the vehicle’s structural integrity.
Reliable Same-Day Windshield Glass Repair
Our team at USA Auto Glass understands the stress of a small windshield chip. We’ll assess if the damage is minor enough to repair it. Our windshield repair crew examines the size of the chip or crack, the number of chips or cracks, and the location of the chip or crack. We will perform a windshield replacement if the chip or crack affects the driver’s view or is too close to the windshield edges.
We Perform On-Site Windshield Replacements
USA Auto Glass offers fast, on-site windshield replacements. We come to your location and perform a windshield replacement as quickly and efficiently as possible. We don’t want to add any more stress to the situation, so we’re proud to come to you for expert auto glass services.
Why Choose USA Auto Glass?
USA Auto Glass, Inc. is a locally-owned and -operated company with more than 40 years of combined experience. Our auto glass repair specialists are proud to serve Miami, West Palm Beach, Kendall, the Keys, Ft. Lauderdale, Homestead, and many surrounding areas. Our leaders believe in treating customers with the highest quality customer service and products. We believe we are making a difference with our on-site, fast, and reliable auto glass services.
Contact Us for a Free Windshield Repair Estimate
We urge you to call us as soon as possible once you experience a windshield chip or crack. We provide the fast and professional glass repair services you deserve. Most comprehensive auto insurance policies cover windshield replacements. Call us to come to check it out whether you have a tiny chip or a large crack in your windshield. We offer free estimates and will get the job done right the first time. Contact us today.
-
Is It Legal to Drive With a Cracked Windshield?
Fast and Reliable Cracked Windshield Services in Florida
Most people agree that a windshield crack is annoying as the driver manipulates trying to safely view surroundings around an unsightly crack. A window crack weakens your windshield’s structural integrity and is just waiting for the perfect time to spread. USA Auto Glass in Florida repairs and replaces numerous windshields in Miami, FL, due to windshield cracks. The annoying cracks leave many to wonder if driving with a cracked windshield is legal. We’re here to answer this question and provide optimal service for all your auto glass needs.
Know Your State Windshield Laws
It’s essential to know your state’s windshield laws. It is stated in Florida Transportation Code Section 316.610 that it is a civil infraction to drive a vehicle that is unsafe due to defective or faulty equipment. A cracked windshield that affects the driver’s line of sight while driving violates this section. It is up to the discretion of a police officer to determine if the size, shape, and length of the windshield crack impair the driver’s vision. Florida requires car insurance companies to pay for windshield repair costs if you have full coverage auto insurance.
Why You Should Always Repair Windshield Cracks
Tiny windshield cracks often seem like harmless, minor inconveniences. The problem is that a tiny crack can become a large problem in seconds. Extreme heat, direct sunlight, motor vibrations, and cold days can quickly cause the crack to grow in size. Automotive glass technology often prevents the windshield from collapsing but can lead to an auto accident due to lack of visibility. It’s less expensive and more effective to get windshield chips and cracks repaired as soon as possible. You’ll simultaneously restore the windshield’s integrity and remove an unsightly crack.
Same-Day Windshield Chip Repair and Replacement
USA Auto Glass understands the need to receive windshield chip repair and replacement as soon as possible. Since it’s illegal to drive a vehicle in Florida with chips and cracks in the windshield, we act quickly. Our glass replacement team will come to you to repair or replace your windshield in no time.
Why Choose USA Auto Glass?
USA Auto Glass repairs or replaces damaged auto glass at your preferred location. We offer same-day service during weekly business hours. Never try a quick do-it-yourself fix because none of these approaches will ever touch our expertise in repairing a chipped or cracked windshield. We are proud to serve Miami, FL, and the surrounding areas with exemplary auto glass services. For a combined four decades, our team has provided all types of auto glass services, including
Contact Us for a Free Windshield Repair Estimate
USA Auto Glass in Florida understands unfortunate events happen on the road. We’re here to repair your auto glass problems. We help drivers get safely back on the road in West Palm Beach, Kendall, the Keys, Ft. Lauderdale, South Miami Heights, Homestead, and surrounding areas. Contact us today for a free estimate!
-
How to Clean Your Windshield Properly
Tips From Our Windshield Repair & Replacement Specialists in Miami, FL
When you’re driving around in Miami, FL, you want to ensure you have the best view possible to keep you safe on the road. USA Auto Glass Florida wants to help our valued customers have a clean windshield, so we’ve prepared some tips on how to clean windshields properly. We all know how annoying it can be when you have a dirty windshield after it rains or for some other reason. A dirty windshield is not only a nuisance, but it can also be dangerous by limiting your vision on the road. While the ways to clean the outside of your windshield are pretty well known, it’s not always so easy to clean the inside. Learn more about how to clean your windshield, and get in touch with us if you have cracks or chips that are impairing your vision on the road.
Cleaning the Inside of Your Car’s Windshield
Cleaning the outside of your car’s windshield can be done in a few ways. First, you can opt to take your vehicle to a car wash. The problem with this option is you’ll have to pay for a more comprehensive and expensive package to get the inside of your vehicle cleaned. You can rely on your vehicle’s windshield washers, but you’ll need to make sure they have enough windshield fluid. You can also clean the outside of your windshield when you stop to get gas. The issue arises when drivers want to clean off the inside of their car’s windshields. Your vehicle will look better, and you will also have increased visibility. Check out the following tips to clean the inside of your windshield:
- Use a dry microfiber towel to wipe down the inside of your windshield glass to remove any stuck-on dirt and grime.
- Spray your preferred brand of glass cleaner onto your microfiber towel and wipe down the inside of your windshield. This step cleans any remaining grime or dirt off your windshield.
- Use rubbing alcohol on a fresh microfiber towel to wipe down the inside of the windshield. Doing this removes fogginess while boosting visibility.
- Apply a glass cleaner or polish once again to give you even better visibility and extra shine.
Can You Use Window to Clean Your Car’s Windshield?
You can use Windex to wash the inside of your car’s windshield if you so choose. You can use just about any household glass cleaner for the inside of your car’s windows. Be careful with Windex because it could discolor or dry out your leather upholstery. Windex could also cause damage to tinted windows, but there’s not much evidence to support that theory. We don’t recommend using Windex on window tint installed by a third party such as USA Auto Glass Florida.
Improve Visibility by Fixing Chips & Cracks
USA Auto Glass hopes you have found these tips for cleaning your windshield helpful. One way to ensure you have the best visibility possible is to have our professional windshield repair and replacement team fix any chips or cracks in your windshield. Contact us today to request a quote or schedule fast same-day service.
-
How Do You Prevent a Chipped Windshield From Getting Worse?
How Do You Prevent a Chipped Windshield From Getting Worse?
USA Auto Glass Offers Windshield Chip Repairs
A chip or crack in your windshield can ruin your day. It’s essential to repair your windshield as soon as possible and stop the chip from cracking in the meantime. A chipped windshield can cause decreased visibility when driving and lead to a larger crack. USA Auto Glass provides tips on preventing your chipped windshield from getting worse. We’ve proudly served South Florida with quality auto glass products and services for over 25 years. If you get a rock chip when driving, follow these tips to help prevent a complete windshield replacement.
Apply Clear Nail Polish or Superglue
Clear nail polish or superglue offers a temporary solution to stop the chip from spreading.
The first thing to do before applying clear nail polish or superglue is to clean the windshield with auto glass cleaner to rid of any debris. After using the solution, place clear packing tape over the area to seal it.
Avoid Exposing Glass to Extreme Temperatures
When the temperature fluctuates, your auto glass expands and contracts. The changes in temperature exposure often lead to further cracking. The best thing to do is keep your vehicle parked in a garage or shade at a constant temperature and avoid freezing temperatures or direct sunlight.
Use A Windshield Repair Kit
Windshield repair kits can repair minor cracks. It’s essential to have a basic understanding of tools before attempting to use a windshield repair kit. You’ll need to make a tiny hole into the top layer of glass with a drill bit and apply the specialized resin to seal the glass.
Be A Cautious Driver
Any vibration can cause a vehicle chip to spread. It’s essential to be as cautious as possible driving over speed bumps, accelerating on the highway, and even slamming your door. It’s critical to avoid potholes and stay away from rocky terrain.
Contact A Mobile Auto Glass Repair Specialist
The best way to prevent a windshield chip from spreading is to contact our USA Auto Glass team as quickly as possible. We understand the need for fast and efficient auto glass services. Our mobile team can come to you to repair your windshield chip. Our windshield repair technicians only take a few minutes to repair your chip and get you back behind the wheel.
Why Choose USA Auto Glass?
USA Auto Glass has 40 years of combined experience assisting drivers throughout the Keys, Ft. Lauderdale, Miami, West Palm Beach, Kendall, South Miami Heights, Homestead, and other surrounding areas. We offer same-day service on almost all our auto glass repairs. We always assess your windshield chip or crack’s depth, size, and location before determining the next step. We offer multiple types of superior auto glass services, including:
Contact Us for a Free Windshield Repair Estimate
USA Auto Glass in Florida is committed to helping you stay as safe behind the wheel as possible with our auto glass services. We will quickly repair your window chip or crack to help prevent it from spreading. Our exceptional customer service team works with all types of insurance companies for your peace of mind. We put your needs first to ensure your auto glass is in optimal condition. Contact us today for a free estimate.
-
The Pros & Cons of Window Tinting
Car Window Tinting Services in Dade & Broward County, FL
Getting your car’s window tinted is a great way to upgrade your ride, but there are some pros and cons to be considered. USA Auto Glass offers professional window tint services in Dade County, Broward County, and Homestead, FL. Our auto glass experts want to help you better understand the advantages and disadvantages associated with window tinting. While many drivers enjoy the benefits of car window tinting, others might prefer not to opt for this add-on to their vehicle. Keep reading to learn more about the pros and cons of window tinting, and get in touch with USA Auto Glass today if you have any questions or are ready to schedule service.
The Benefits of Tinted Windows
Many Florida drivers are opting to tint their windows. Let’s take a closer look at some of the many benefits of adding car window tint t your ride:
- Privacy – Let’s face it; drivers are nosy. If you want a little more privacy while driving, window tinting will make it more challenging for others to see inside your vehicle. This is a great way to keep your valuables secure when parked. You don’t have to be doing anything shady in your vehicle to want a little more privacy on the road.
- Safety – Getting your windows tinted can provide you with a protective barrier. Side and rear windows are tempered glass which tends to shatter into many tiny chunks upon impact. Window tint film will keep those chunks from flying around, making you less likely to be cut by glass in case of an accident.
- Lower Temperatures – We all know how hot the inside of your car can get during the Florida summer. If your vehicle is parked uncovered during sunny days, your car can feel overwhelmingly hot when you get inside. Adding tint to your windows can keep your vehicle cooler. Tinted windows have been proven to reduce the heat inside your car by 60%. You’ll be much more comfortable when you get in your car and while you’re driving around. You won’t need to use your air conditioning as much, and your passengers will be more comfortable.
- Protects Against UV Rays – Adding window tinting to your ride can protect you from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Tint can safeguard drivers and passengers from skin cancer and reduce wrinkles caused by sun damage. Filtering out the sun also improves your vision on the road. UV light has been directly linked to skin damage, accelerated aging, skin cancer, and cataracts. The sun’s harmful light can also degrade your car’s interior upholstery and trim. Your plastic, fabric, vinyl, or leather interior features can crack, split, fade, or become brittle with time.
- Appearance – Many drivers appreciate the sleeker appearance that window tinting gives their vehicle. A subtle dark tint can make your car look more upscale, which is why it’s pretty popular in high-end luxury cars and often used for custom or modified vehicles.
The Cons of Tinting Your Car’s Windows
While you can see that there are many benefits associated with adding tint to your car’s windows, there are a few potential drawbacks that you should be aware of. Check out some reasons why window tint is not necessarily suitable for every driver:
- Reduced Nighttime Visibility – While window tint can make it easier to see during the day by reducing glare from the sun, it may reduce your visibility while driving at night. You can opt for different tint shades to avoid having trouble seeing at night.
- Potential Legal Issues – It’s essential to know your local laws regarding tinting your vehicle’s windows. Some states prohibit dark tint shades. We will get more in-depth into this issue later in this blog.
- Tint Can Fade – If you opt for a low-quality tint to save money, the odds are that your tinting will fade faster than it would if you spent some more money on the good stuff. Investing in high-quality tint is worth it because you won’t need to have it replaced as often. Aftermarket tint films can sometimes bubble, crack, or peel. When this happens, you’ll have to strip it off and have it replaced.
- May Reduce Value – If you plan to sell your vehicle, you need to be aware that not all drivers want tinted windows. While some drivers may be excited about your tinted windows, others might not. Customizing your vehicle is always a risk when it comes time to sell it.
Florida Window Tinting Laws
The level of darkness associated with window tinting is measured in visible light transmission (VLT). Each state has unique laws regarding window tint percentages. The reason these laws are in place is to ensure drivers can see out of their vehicles in the dark or poor weather conditions. According to Florida law, your front-side windows must have a VLT of at least 28%. For back windows, there must be a VLT of at least 15%, and the same percentage applies to rear windows. If you drive an SUV or van, the VLT for your windshield and front side windows will be the same. Non-reflective tint is allowed on your windshield above the manufacturer’s A-1 line.
Schedule Professional Tint Installation Today
Now that you know more about the pros and cons of adding window tinting to your vehicle, it’s time to decide whether you want to proceed with the process. USA Auto Glass can ensure your vehicle meets Florida laws related to window tinting. We can help you choose the right high-quality tint shade, so your visibility is not reduced too much, and your tint won’t fade easily. Our ceramic window tint experts offer fast same-day service at your home or business. We gladly work directly with your insurance company for fast processing and are happy to provide you with a free estimate. Our team has been serving South Florida for more than 25 years, and we would love to add window tint to your vehicle. Contact us today to get started.