The windshield is one of the most important features on your vehicle. It not only provides a barrier between you and the elements of the road but also protects you from the weather. Not to mention that it blocks wind and helps you see clearly while you’re driving.
That’s why it’s so important to have your windshield replaced when it becomes chipped or cracked. It’s also illegal to drive with a broken windshield, which is one more reason to be proactive.
Don’t just choose the first company you find online to perform a windshield replacement. There are a few questions you should ask to ensure that you’ll be working with a company you can trust.
If you’re in need of a new windshield, have no fear. We’re here discussing what to look for in a company that performs windshield replacement in Wichita, KS. Keep reading to learn more.
Finding the Best Windshield Replacement Company in Wichita, KS
Just because an establishment promotes itself as the best repair company in town, it doesn’t necessarily mean they are. You should be on the lookout for a company that won’t guarantee their work or has poor customer service.
Beyond that, it’s important to know that some cases of chipped or cracked windshields can simply be repaired. Ask the technician what your options are before proceeding with a complete replacement.
Otherwise, let’s take a look at some things to be aware of regarding your windshield replacement company.
Certifications
The Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standard, also known as the AGRSS, is a certification accredited by the American National Institute. It was developed and is maintained by the Auto Glass Safety Council or AGSC.
Likewise, the National Windshield Repair Association or NWRA carries a standard known as the ROLAGS Standard. This stands for Repair of Laminated Auto Glass and must be upheld for any windshield repair that does not require replacement.
Your auto glass repair/replacement company should hold these certifications and willingly supply you with proof.
Technician Training
You should also inquire about the training that the technician staff has undergone. Have they become individually certified to use all of the products and materials necessary for a windshield installation? What about special training for inclement weather?
Don’t hesitate to seek another company if the one you’re talking to won’t provide you with training details for their employees. You may also ask how long each technician has been on the job in order to gauge their experience levels.
Quality
Besides quality training, you’ll also want to find out what type of windshields the company is using. You should be looking for quality, not cheap stuff. Make sure they’re selling dealer or OEM glass specifically.
Some auto glass companies manufacture their own glass which may present distortions. Dealer or OEM glass is held to higher standards that guarantee clarity.
Insurance
Don’t forget to ask if your auto glass repair company will accept your insurance – if applicable.
If your insurance provider will pay for the replacement of your windshield and the repair company refuses to accept your insurance, it’s a better idea to inquire somewhere else.
Materials
Aside from the quality of the actual auto glass itself, the materials used to install your windshield should also be top notch. Remember that training your technician went through? It should have included details specially tailored to using the adhesive that will hold your windshield in place.
Your technician should use the same adhesive as the glass manufacturer, with urethane that has at least 1,000 PSI. This standard is meant to ensure a secure, tight fit that won’t allow air or water to leak. Not to mention that it will stay in place in the event of a collision.
Installation
The adhesive used to replace your windshield will take some time to cure. You should be sure to ask your replacement company up front how long you can expect to wait before you’re allowed to get back out on the road. Most companies report anywhere from one to four hours for a ‘safe drive-away time‘ or ‘minimum drive-away time.’
Also, make sure that no less than two technicians arrive for your appointment. Installation of a windshield requires two bodies. One individual cannot safely and effectively install a new windshield.
Warranty or Guarantee
Your windshield replacement should always come with a warranty or guarantee from the company that performed the work.
Don’t forget to find out about this before you have the windshield replaced so that you can make your determination based on this factor. Some warranties are longer and more comprehensive than others, so you’ll want to know what’s covered upfront.
A good windshield replacement company will cover both the work performed as well as the materials and glass used on the project.
Customer Service
Dealing with a car windshield replacement can be a hassle. It never quite happens at a convenient time when you need the replacement. You don’t want to be dealing with a sheisty company on top of it all.
Look for a company that supports live customer service, preferably with an experienced technician. Some auto glass repair companies use call centers to field their appointments, and while it may be convenient, it could be a sign of lesser quality in service and products.
Final Thoughts
One of the final questions you should ask when inquiring about a windshield replacement company in Wichita, KS is whether or not they are able to come to you. A reputable company should do everything in its power to accommodate your schedule and have the work completed in a timely manner.
Now that you know what to expect when you need your windshield replaced, you can feel confident choosing a local company to do it. It’s not a bad idea to get a few different quotes from competing companies in order to secure the best deal.
If you liked this post, check out our post on cost options for this repair to gain a better idea of how to pay for it.