Winter is almost here in St Catharines, and it's time to start thinking about getting your car (and your windshield!) ready for the harsh weather. One important thing you will want to take care of now before colder temperatures arrive is making sure that your windshield washer fluid doesn't freeze. 


Read on for tips to keep your windshield washer fluid from freezing this winter!


Add rubbing alcohol or vodka to your windshield washer fluid.


Adding a little bit of rubbing alcohol or high-proof vodka to your windshield washer fluid is an easy way to keep it from freezing during the winter months. Both have lower freezing points which can keep your windshield washer fluid from freezing. 


(If you want to waste good vodka, sure, go ahead!) But both will work with most windshield washer fluid brands but check the labels first to make sure.

Some people swear by antifreeze, but adding it to your windshield washer fluid might damage your car's paint and metal parts. 

You're better off using a winter formula windshield washer fluid, which we're discussing next.


Use winter-windshield washer fluid.


Winter windshield washer fluids contain chemicals that keep them from freezing down to -40 degrees Fahrenheit, so be sure you're using one if you live in an area where it freezes frequently. 


Don't use regular washer fluid if you live in a cold climate because it won't work well when the weather is extremely cold.


Make sure you put a lid on your windshield washer reservoir.


Leaving the cover off your windshield washer reservoir is a terrible idea if you live in an area where the weather gets freezing. The fluid inside of your reservoir will freeze, which means that it won't be able to do its job when you're driving on a snowy day.


Putting a lid on your windshield washer reservoir is one quick and easy way to keep this from happening.


Don't over drain your windshield washer fluid reservoir.


Removing all of your windshield washer fluid is never a good idea, even if you are planning on refilling it. The liquid inside your reservoir helps keep the other components in the system from freezing, so you mustn't remove all of this fluid. If you have to drain your windshield washer fluid reservoir for any reason, make sure to refill it before you drive in cold weather.


Use a windshield cover when parked.


If you want to improve the chances of your windshield washer fluid staying unfrozen, consider using a windshield cover when your car is parked overnight. 


Invest in a windshield washer de-icer.


If none of the above hacks work and all other options fail, consider investing in a windshield de-icer. De-icers are specially designed to keep your windshield from frosting over in cold temperatures. 


Some car owners even use the de-icer when their car is parked overnight during winter months because it can help save time in the morning when you're getting ready for work or school.



There you have it; at Surge Auto Glass, we are interested in helping our customers save their cars and save some money — even with things you might think have negligible costs - like your windshield washer fluid. 


We understand that these things add up. It's good to save every dollar for emergencies, or you'll need a big-ticket item, like auto glass.


So, give us a call, and we can assist you with any questions you may have!


We'll be here for all of your auto glass needs — and we're often open on weekends and holidays — during times when you most need us!


Check out
 
our blog page for more tips!


If you're a car owner, you've likely dealt with this problem before: The dreaded windshield and auto glass scratch. Your car's windows are the most vulnerable part of your vehicle — and all it takes is one rock or bug to cause an unsightly blemish that can be tough to remove. 


You can do some things at home without spending any money, but if those don't work, these tips will help get rid of those pesky scratches. 

 1.  Buff It Out


There are several different products that you can use to buff out scratches on your windshield and auto glass. There's a variety of products available, from liquids, sprays, polishes, and more. 


You can find them at any car dealership or do-it-yourself store. 


2.  Use Nail Polish


Believe it or not, you can use nail polish to help get rid of scratches on auto glass. You'll need clear nail polish. Apply the clear coat over the scratch. Let it dry.


3.  Use Paste Wax


Paste wax is a great way to help cover up those scratches. Waxing your windshield and auto glass can sometimes leave streaks, though, so this method may not be as effective as others. 


However, if you like to give it a shot, all you need is a little bit of water-based paste wax and some microfiber cloth or towels. After applying the wax, dry it off and buff it with a clean microfiber cloth.


4.  Use Toothpaste!


Believe it or not, you can use toothpaste to remove minor scratches on auto glass and windshields! Squeeze some toothpaste onto an old rag and rub the scratch out in a circular motion. Rinse it off with water and then buff it dry.


5.  Use Peanut Oil


For this method, all you need is some peanut oil and a clean cloth. Dip the fabric in the oil and rub out the scratch until it disappears. 


This works because peanut oil doesn't contain any chemicals that can damage your windshield — be sure to get the oil and cloth completely off the window.


You might not think about it much, but minor scratches on your car's windshield or other glass surfaces can detract from the appearance of your vehicle.


Fortunately, there are several different methods you can employ to remove them yourself without having to visit an auto glass replacement shop!


Got any deep scratches on your auto glass? You might need auto glass repair! Let the pros at Surge Auto Glass offer you solutions. We're happy to help!

Surge Auto Glass - Auto Glass Replacement: FAQs - bearded man driving a car

The safety of your ride is always a top priority, but when driving, you need to be extra careful. Your windshield can often put the lives and limbs in danger if it's not replaced or repaired quickly after an accident. 

So what should you look for as part of auto glass replacement?

It should be a substantial window that doesn't shatter easily.  It must be one-piece construction with no seams, tight seals around corners & edges, so there are fewer leaks from water intrusion; high visibility with anti-glare protection.

When the windshield breaks, you should know what to look for in your auto glass replacement services!

Here are some FAQs about auto glass replacement.

What should I look for when replacing a windshield?

Don't get caught off guard with a broken windshield! There are things to look for when getting your car's glass fixed, such as whether the company is qualified to do that type of work. 

You also need to ensure they have insurance, so if anything happens during the repair, there isn't any trouble or hassle on either side. To find out more about auto replacement and repair services, check our blog here, where we compiled some tips from professionals in this field!

What can you NOT do after windshield replacement?

How long will it take for a windshield replacement to cure?

It takes 24 hours for the adhesive to cure, so please keep your vehicle stationary.

The windshield is a significant safety feature. It can save a life in the event of an accident, and for that reason, you should take care of it! 

To keep it damage-free, you will need at least one week before using any heavy-duty cleaners on its surface, as any pressure you apply when wiping it off could compromise the installation.

You can wash and wax afterward as usual but try to be careful around the windshield area.

How long after windshield replacement can it get wet?

The sealant needs time to set and fully cure so that the water won't seep into it, which could lead to premature wear on your new windshield. You can wash and wax afterward as usual but try not to wait until you have all of those steps completed before driving through puddles or getting your car wet again.

We hope that by answering these questions asked by people who are considering or have opted to replace their windshield, you could let go of any worries you may have.

Surge Auto Glass knows that your car is more than just a mode of transportation. That's why we're here to take care of it for you. When you come in for windshield repair, it isn't just another job on our schedule! We know how important this car is to you, our customer. 

We can help make sure anything related to window repairs stays far from your mind so that you're free of distractions while driving home after an exhausting day at work.

Contact us now to learn more about expert windshield replacement!

For sure, almost all car owners experience seeing white spots in their auto glass even after cleaning both sides of the glass. 


Hard water spots contain high levels of minerals, such as magnesium, calcium, and iron. Once a hard water drop remains in one position, the mineral sticks on the glass, making it hard to remove. 


But even so, there are several hacks on how you could remove those annoying and stubborn spots.


How to prevent having hard water spots on windshields


Here are some tips on how you could avoid having hard water stains.

  1. Park your car in a covered area.
  2. Treat the water spots on the windshield right away.
  3. Apply water repellent on windshields.
  4. Remove water from windshield and auto glass.


Solutions for hard water spots on windshields

Lemon


Acidic elements are the best solution to clean these stubborn stains. Lemon can break up the mineral deposits. 


So, first, squeeze out lemon juice from its fruit, then you can put it on a spray bottle. Moisten the stained area with the solution, then wipe the stains with a lint-free towel. 


Alternatively, you can rub the lemon directly on the auto glass. Rinse the auto glass with water afterward and dry it with a clean rag. 


Vinegar


Just like lemon, vinegar is also good cleaning material due to its acidic content. You can put it in a spray bottle then apply it to the auto glass. Using a lint-free cloth, rub it on the hard water spots. Repeat rubbing the vinegar until the spots disappear. 


Rinse the auto glass with water afterward and dry it with a clean towel. 


Toothpaste


Not just for our teeth, toothpaste can also clean auto glass! Just grab yourself some toothpaste and apply it right over the place where you see the spots. 


Wait for at least 10 to 15 minutes before rubbing it with a dry to slightly damp towel. Rinse it with water and dry it afterward.


Citrus Essential Oil


Essential oils have many benefits, from skincare to health-related aids. But without us knowing, essential oils, especially the citrus type, are good for removing hard water spots. It's also better -smelling than vinegar!


Mix it with water, put it inside a spray bottle, and then apply it to the stained part. Let it soak for 10 or 15 minutes, then grab a sponge and rub it. Just rinse with some water afterward.


Hard Water Cleaner


If you don’t want to do those tips above, you can always buy your hard water remover. That is sure to display a tried and true outcome. If it doesn't do the trick, maybe it's time to go back to the store and demand a refund!

Find other hacks and useful tips in our blog. Click here.




If you are looking for high-quality auto glass and windshield repair and replacement services, Surge Auto Glass is the one you are looking for!


They are also offering a quick estimate deal, follow the format given in the quick estimate column, and they will review your request right away.


So what are you waiting for? Check out our website: https://www.surgeautoglass.com/ or call us at: (905) 699-1552.

*Your choice for speedy auto glass repair or installation service in St. Catharines!*


Power windows have become increasingly common on vehicles in the last ten years. They're a great innovation. But like anything mechanical, they can be confusing to figure out when something goes wrong.


Broken power windows compromise the security of your vehicle and leave the interior vulnerable to weather and temperature damage. Below we outline 3 steps to diagnose the problem with your broken power windows.


Power window mechanisms come in a few varieties, but they are all pretty standard and straightforward. Before you start removing your door trim and panels, though, read on!


Are all the windows jammed or just one?


Determining this will determine your next move, kind of a choose your adventure job. And, if none of your windows move, you may have a more straightforward car window repair job on your hands.


If you can't move any vehicle windows with the automatic controls, check your vehicle's fuse box.


If the fuse is blown, the window controls will not do anything. You won't hear the mechanism trying to work, and you won't see the window glass move at all. The reason for this is that your window control regulators are high-current devices. 


Most of the time, the size of the fuse is sufficient to open all four windows simultaneously, with no extra capacity. If your window channels are sticky at all, it's easy to blow a fuse.


How to test your automatic window control fuse


Insert the key and turn it to the Run position, but don't start the vehicle. Use the automatic window controls to try to move the windows up and down. Try each window control.


If you don't hear or see any movement, the chances are good that you have a blown fuse. On some vehicles, the fuses are labeled. Otherwise, refer to your owner's manual.


Don't simply pull out fuses one by one to look for a blown one; if you don't know what a  blown fuse looks like, it may not be obvious. Also, you might interrupt the power to your vehicle's engine management computer or wipe out your radio presets.


Once you have found the blown fuse, replacing it is a pretty straightforward job by inserting a new one. In some cases, you might get a replacement fuse from your mechanic or at your local auto parts store. 


Make sure to have your vehicle's VIN handy, so they can look up the precise model you need.

If you can operate some, but not all, of the windows, or if you can hear the motor or see the window glass quivering, then your fuse is not the issue. Instead, you're dealing with some electrical, mechanical problem.


Electrical and Mechanical Problems with your Vehicle Glass Controls


Diagnosing an electrical fault is more involved than diagnosing a blown fuse, but it isn't complicated. To perform this task, you will need a schematic of your vehicle's electrical system and either a voltmeter or a 12v test light. 


You are looking for a weak spot in the electrical system interrupting the voltage flow to the vehicle window regulator motor.


Starting at the fuse panel, follow the wiring to the switch. From there to the motor, all along the way, testing for 12 volts with your voltmeter or light. You will likely find a connector that has become loose or corroded, or it may be that the switch itself is faulty. 


Once you've isolated the problem, you may be able to fix it by simply restoring the connection or by replacing the broken switch.


Please don't force it!


Trying to force a stuck window up or down can permanently damage the regulator mechanism, leading to a more costly repair bill. It can also put an unnatural strain on the window itself, leading to damaged glass. 


For all your car window and windshield repairs in St. Catharines, call Surge Auto Glass. We can help you diagnose the damage and repair or replace your auto glass with satisfaction guaranteed.

Don't take a chance with your car's safety. Choose the experts at Surge Auto Glass. Call us now.

How to Deal with a Broken Car Window

A broken auto glass is a hassle that requires immediate attention before the problem gets worse. The best way to deal with it is by seeking professional auto glass repair services. If you don't know where to go, call local auto-glass companies like Surge Auto Glass in St Catharines and ask for advice on how they can help you fix your window.

It's also important to get insurance information you might need to cover the cost of auto glass repair.

Preparation

Make sure the auto glass is not broken in a way that makes it dangerous. If auto glass breaks, it usually cracks with pressure and doesn't completely shatter like a drinking glass. Make sure any cracks do not turn into shards of auto glass by tapping on them or lightly rubbing your finger over it. Rubbing auto glass may cause the sharp edges to turn into auto glass shards.

Using tape to secure remaining broken auto glass

Cover any auto glass that is broken with clear tape or painters tape to prevent further damage to the auto glass and passengers in the vehicle. This will also make it easier to clean up broken auto glass fragments later on. Be sure to press down around all sides of the auto glass to make sure it doesn't move.

Cleaning up broken auto glass fragments

Auto glass can cut like a knife, so using gloves is recommended when cleaning up the auto glass pieces. Place all of the auto glass pieces in an old coffee can or plastic bucket with water inside of it for easy clean-up and disposal.

Using a plastic cover as a Temporary Remedy for the hole

The auto glass should be covered until it can be repaired by an auto glass professional. It is not recommended that the hole remain uncovered for more than 24 hours.

Until then, be cautious of wind and speed bumps to avoid further damage to the auto glass fragments that are already broken. Avoid throwing anything at or covering a broken auto glass as this may cause further damage. Take a plastic sheet you can use as a cover for the hole.

Cutting and positioning the Plastic Covering

Cut an area big enough to cover the hole, and tape it over the auto glass. If you are driving in cold weather, remember that auto glass can weaken if exposed to extreme temperatures for extended periods of time.

Secure the Plastic Covering

Secure the auto glass covering with tape, string, cord or rope. Make sure to secure it tightly enough to prevent the auto glass covering from slipping off if someone bumps against it.

Seal the Plastic Window Covering

If you plan on leaving the auto glass uncovered for a long time, seal it using clear packaging tape. This will keep dirt and water from getting inside of the auto glass compartment.

Secure it as tightly as possible so that insects cannot get in and make sure to cover all of the auto glass so that wind does not catch it and cause further damage.

Add a Layer on the Outside of the Vehicle

Temperatures may be colder than usual, causing auto glass to crack more rapidly. Use a piece of cardboard or plywood with a sheet of plastic over it as a temporary auto glass cover for your vehicle if you plan on venturing out into extreme weather conditions.

Add a Third Layer on the Inside of the car

This is not recommended unless you have to leave your vehicle in extreme weather conditions for a long period of time. If you do, be sure to place an auto window cover on the inside and out or wrap auto glass with fabric such as a shirt, sheet or blanket to prevent auto glass from shattering into tiny pieces.

Auto glass repair options or auto glass replacement

For fixing or replacing auto glass, go to an auto glass specialist for an accurate quote on the price of auto glass replacement . A broken auto glass can be expensive, especially if auto insurance does not cover something like auto glass.

Yes, replacing auto windows can be expensive, and mostly, car insurance only covers auto glass replacement if it is part of an accident claim.

A broken auto glass or window can be dangerous, so make sure to take all precautions when dealing with a broken auto glass or window in a vehicle for safety reasons, including taping auto glass shut or covering auto window openings with auto window covers.


Once broken auto glass is covered, it should be safe enough to remain in place until an auto glass professional like one from Surge Auto Glass can repair or replace it.

For more details, visit Surge Auto Glass at (905) 699-1552 or visit our website at https://surgeautoglass.com/ to inquire about their prompt and excellent services.

My car needed its windshield replaced at Surge Auto Glass. So I had some time to look at a few of the cars in the lot. One vehicle caught my eye as it was impeccable. I caught myself dreaming about my car looking like that. 


So, with some research, I wrote this article as my reference. Let me share it with you.

Detailing your car is a great way to show off your hard work and make it look its best. 


Whether you want to take care of minor scratches, or if you need more in-depth help like removing rust from the exhaust pipe, don't worry - we've got everything here for detailing enthusiasts.


1.  Clean your car with a high-quality, non-toxic cleaner.


An important component of car detailing is to wash the exterior with a high-quality, non-toxic cleaner. You can use an all-purpose cleaning solution and a microfiber towel for this.


2.  Rinse off any remaining dirt and grime from the surface of your car.


The next step is to rinse your car off, making sure you remove any dirt and grime that may have gathered on the surface. For this, you can use a dry car wash product or an all-purpose cleaner with a towel.


3.  Use detailing clay to remove dirt that can't be removed by washing alone.


The next step in your car detailing process is to use a product called "clay," which can remove dirt in deep recesses in your car’s dashboard and exterior. This can remove all of those pesky swirls and scratches on your paint finish.


4. Polish away any light scratches and swirls that may be on your paint finish.


These are caused by the use of products like clay, waxing, or polishing. Ultra fine abrasives will work best for this process.


5.  Apply wax on top of polis.

This provides extra protection against UV rays, pollution, bird droppings, tree sap, bug splatter, etc.


6.  Buff away excess wax


For maximum shine use a soft cotton cloth or microfiber towel. I prefer using a microfiber towel to buff away wax! It's the best way of removing any excess wax which leaves streaks on the paint finish. It will also save you a lot of time and effort in your detailing process.


Note: (Optional). Protect your paint finish by applying clear coat sealant every two months or as needed. Consider climate conditions and frequency of use. 


Also, apply this coating after you clean your vehicle to protect it from drying out if you don't want to use soap/cleaning detergent every time).


The following is a list of products I recommend for Auto Glass Replacement:




Auto Glass Repair St Catharines Auto glass replacement service is committed to providing the best auto glass replacement services in St Catharines and surrounding areas.


We are able, equipped, and experienced with all types of windshields for any make or model vehicle on the road today! No matter what type of glass that need replacing, Auto Glass Repair St Catharines will be able to provide the right product for your needs.


If it is a windshield or front window that you need fixing, Surge Auto Glass has something perfect for each customer who walks through our door! 


We offer OEM replacement parts as well as custom-made windows and windshields for customers who request them.


Our Auto Glass Replacement St Catharines technicians are skilled in all types of glass replacement and installations, which means you won't need to worry about getting the best service imaginable when it comes to your vehicle's glass windows!


Surge Auto Glass is committed to providing every customer with a perfect installation so that they can get back on the road quickly and safely!

I'm not sure if I should get my car's windows tinted. What are the pros and cons of getting it done? Is there a risk of damage to my windshield during installation? How do I know who to trust to do it? 

This post will address these questions and give you tips on how to find the best place in St Catharines for auto glass replacement or repair should you need one!


What Is Auto Glass?

Auto glass includes the front windshield, side, and rear windows in some vehicles. Tinted car window films or shades are designed to reduce the heat entering a car and avoid the harmful effect of UV rays. 


This can help keep drivers cool during the most intense times of the day, such as a summer drive in St Catharines.


What Are The Pros?

Lowers Temperature Inside Of The Vehicle


One of the many perks of tinting your windows is that it will help keep you more relaxed since you won’t be in a hot car.

Reduce Glare and Promote Better Visibility

Reducing the glare from a light source hitting your glass windows allows for clearer visibility so drivers can see more easily while driving on sunny days or at night under streetlights.

Offers Privacy And Security

Have you ever felt like someone was looking at your vehicle's interior? Annoying when they won't let up, right? Well, help secure the contents of your car with a rear window tint. 

It will provide privacy but more importantly will prevent others from being able to see what is inside and causing them to get curious about your possessions!

Protection Against UV Rays

Tinting blocks 99% of harmful ultraviolet rays from natural sunlight and artificial light sources like fluorescent bulbs!

Extra Safety When Involved In An Accident


Ever since the invention of tempered glass, drivers have been able to keep themselves safe in dangerous situations by ensuring their windows are equipped with this material. 

Tempered glass is well known for its strength and safety as it can withstand high temperatures without breaking or shattering. 

Tint films double your security if you were involved in an accident or other situation where flying debris could be a risk, your window plus the film holding it together would protect you from these dangers.

What Are The Cons?

Reduces Visibility Especially At Night

The downside of tinted windows is that they are too dark for some people, taking away the sense of openness. Others worry about how much light comes in when parked on a street-level parking lot with high-rise buildings all around them.

May Require Special Permits

Tinted windows have a variety of benefits and downsides. Depending on the laws in your state, you might need to get a legal permit for window tinting.

Absorbs The Sun’s Heat

Sometimes tinting films may trap heat from the sun, so if you live in an area where it's hot throughout the daytime hours and you have no way of lowering your windows before driving, then this might not be for you.

But if you are tired of feeling like a lobster at lunchtime? Stick with tinted windows!

May Jam Up Automatic Wipers

A tinted windshield could be the cause of your wipers getting jammed. The dirt and debris left on top of the film can get caught up in the wipers, causing them to jam or not work at all. 

It's best to consult your technician or try the blades for yourself before leaving the shop!


Tint Can Fade Over Time

The film can develop a color change or haziness that usually requires the tint to be replaced.


How Much Does It Cost?

Installation costs vary depending on your location and quote requirements. Therefore, you should contact a tint shop for an estimate before proceeding to get them installed!

If you want to get your car's windows tinted, you must select a reputable company.


When it comes to auto glass repair or replacement in St Catharines, there is only one place to consider.

Surge Auto Glass is the best place to get your car windows repaired or replaced in St Catharines.

We provide the best service in town when it comes to repairing or replacing your windows (windshields) with our quality workmanship and fair pricing! 


If you have any concerns about getting your car's windows tinted, talk to us or visit our website for more tips about auto glass!

If you need auto glass replacement or repair, give us a call at (905) 699-1552 and book an appointment today!

Getting locked out of your car is never a good feeling. That sinking panic sets in when you realize that not only are your keys on the other side of the door, but you don't know where to find help! As terrible as it feels, there's no need to worry. 


You won't be stuck out in the cold for long, thanks to these helpful tips and tricks guaranteed to get you back into your vehicle.


Here are your 6 options to deal with it.

Call Your Roadside Service


Got Triple-A or another roadside service provider? They will send out someone who specializes in unlocking car doors.


If you cannot get the door unlocked, this might be an option for you! It's often available 24/7, so it won't matter what time of day it is when you need help.


Call a Locksmith


Locate a locksmith with experience in vehicle unlocking; some have special equipment or a collection of modifiable car keys, which means it will be much faster than if they had to make your key from a piece of metal on-site! 


Also, be sure that the locksmith is well-trained and can use the right tools.


A locksmith will charge a fee for their services, but it's worth considering if you're desperate or stuck in an uncomfortable situation.


Call a tow truck


This option seems like it would take forever, but at least you won't have any auto repair costs once this is over with.


All the better if your insurance company offers roadside assistance services. Just make sure to call them first before calling anyone else for help or arranging an expensive tow truck service.


We've got a couple more helpful options for dire situations below!


Call for Help


If there are other people around, ask them to call 911 to come and help you out. They will mainly give you prompt attention if you happen to have a child or pet inside the car.


Break a Window


If there is no other option and you can't find a way to unlock the door, smashing in the window is another option! This is an emergency, so don't worry too much about hurting your car.


Ensure that you have tools on hand before doing this because it's not as easy as it seems to break glass with just your hands.


But wait, which window should you break?


Breaking a car window is dangerous and expensive to repair. Therefore, it should only be done in critical situations, such as if a child or a pet is trapped in a hot car. 


car window glass is tempered, which means that it's almost as strong as the windshield. If you believe that breaking the window is necessary to protect a pet or a child, use the following advice. 


One of the two back windows will be the easiest to break because these windows are smaller and have a thinner layer of tempered glass. They also don't need as much force, so you should break them without using something sharp or heavy.


What t you can use is something hard and flat on hand so that when you break through the window, there won't be any sharp edges left. A hammer or large rock will work well here.


Use your arm for leverage, then hit the corner of the window with enough force. This may take a couple of tries, but it should keep everyone safe from injury!


Make a Routine Where You Place Your Keys


So, this tip might come after you’ve locked yourself out and followed one of the tips above to get you out of your situation.


When it comes down to it, the best thing that you can do to prevent having to break a window is to not lock yourself out — easily avoidable by making a routine with your keys, so you get locked out less or not at all!



If you had employed tip #5 and had to break your window, don’t despair as we also covered what to do next in that scenario:



Simply call Surge Auto Glass, and we’ll get you out of trouble! Whether it’s your front or rear windshield, the sunroof — any of your car windows — we do it right, we do it fast, and our price will always beat the competition. 

Surge Auto Glass has been in business for ten years, providing auto glass and windshield repair service to Niagara Falls, St. Catharines, and the Niagara Peninsula.

Call us at (905) 699-1552. Speak to Serge, the owner, as he oversees everything when it comes to solutions your auto glass replacement in St Catharines and the Niagara region..

If you have ever had the misfortune of your auto glass shattering while driving, then you know that it can be a frightening experience. Glass shards fly everywhere and can get in your eyes, in your mouth, all over you — it's not fun! 

However, there are some things that you should do to protect yourself when you have a cracked windshield that will be needing glass repair or replacement. 

 Read on for more information on what to do if your windshield shatters while driving.

Here are the critical steps you must take to ensure that everyone inside your car or even outside is protected and unharmed before you can arrange for auto glass repair or replacement.

Don’t Panic, But Don’t Just Stop Driving!

Before getting auto glass repair, you are left with two options:

A) Pull over on the side of the road and wait for help to arrive.

B) Drive until you can't see out of your car any longer.

Many people choose option B, but in reality, this is a dangerous idea! When driving with a cracked windshield, all sorts of things become obstacles, from bugs to smoke and even raindrops - anything that gets thrown into your path will be an issue. 

Not only does this make it challenging to keep going straight ahead when visibility is low, but it also increases your risk of getting into an accident because your windshield isn't there to protect you from these hazards on the road.

Minor Damage

Let’s talk about a minor chip or crack or fractures on your windshield first. Then, depending on the extent of the damage, it may be OK to drive home or to an auto glass repair shop that's nearby

Your local auto glass shop can tell you if your cracked windshield is repairable or you will need a glass replacement. Here are some things you might want to accomplish before getting your glass repair shop involved.

Wear Gloves and Deal with the Broken Glass

If you have to deal with any broken glass, even small chips and cracks, make sure you wear gloves to avoid cutting yourself. For example, most windshields these days are made with safety glass. As a result, they break into tiny pieces rather than big ones with sharp, jagged edges.

You need to dispose of the auto glass so others may not come in contact with it. Do not throw windshield auto glass with your regular trash.

Time to Pick Up the Pieces – with a Vacuum!

Use a high-powered vacuum cleaner to pick up any tiny pieces of auto glass which may be present. It's essential to make sure you get all of the windshield glass out of the automobile, as even small pieces can harm the upholstery. 

You ought to vacuum the car several times to ensure there aren't any tiny fragments left from cracks and crevices.

After all of the auto glass has been vacuumed and you feel confident that you have not missed any, make sure to dispose of the vacuum bag or dump the canister into a garbage bag for disposal. 

Even better, a plastic container works excellent for broken glass and will help ensure that nobody gets injured once the auto glass is thrown away.

Worst-Case Scenario – Gaping Hole, Shards All Over the Place!

If there is a gaping hole smacked right in the middle of your field of vision, you cannot and should not drive it. You can just imagine bugs and dust flying into your face while you drive with a broken windshield - it will be quite a distraction, thus unsafe, and will require the involvement of an auto glass repair shop.

Roadside Assistance – Arranging for a Tow

Once you have eased your way into safety, say, by the roadside, you can then arrange for the tow truck and have your car transported to a nearby auto glass shop for glass repair or replacement. 

Lucky you if you call roadside service to tow your vehicle if you have this type of coverage!

Contact Your Insurance Agent

Talking about insurance cover,  it would be in your best interest to call your insurance company right away so they can start processing the claim for glass replacement or repair quickly.

Here’s also where you need to decide to file a claim for the damaged windshield glass. Here’s a general rule of thumb. If your windshield replacement costs more than the deductible, it's worth filing a claim.

For example, if you have to pay $400 for repair and your deductible is only $250, then you'll end up paying less because insurance will cover part of that cost!

You also have to weigh the effect of a windshield repair or replacement claim on your insurance premium. So, again, talk to your agent to see where you stand.

Call a Friend or a Family Member

While waiting for your roadside service to take your car to a windshield glass replacement and repair shop, make another call to contact friends or family members who might have the time to help transport you.

Call Your Local Auto Glass Shop - What to Look For

It's ideal to schedule a car window repair or replacement as soon as possible following the windshield breaks. To stop the components from getting into your vehicle and make sure you can continue driving safely. 

ALWAYS have a reliable, qualified auto glass shop inspect and correctly replace your windshield — ASAP.

The structural integrity of your car is dependent upon a secure, properly installed windshield. A windshield is a crucial part of your car, and it can be devastating when it shatters. 

Luckily, professional windshield repair can fix chipped and cracked windshields. Once repaired or replaced, it can even prevent cracked windshields in the future. That's the best solution!

With such an emergency, you need to call Surge Auto Glass right away at (905) 699-1552. For all professional auto glass repair or replacement needs, we’d love to fix your windshield! 

Our team is available to answer any questions or concerns about the windshield crack situation of your vehicle. Don't hesitate to reach out if there's anything we can do to make this process easier for you! 

We want to get you back in your vehicle and on the road!

Head over to Surge Auto Glass for more information on how to take care of a shattered windshield!

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