Why It May Soon Cost More To Replace Your Car’s Windshield
Your vehicle’s windshield is one of its most important safety features. Not only does the glass provide you a clear view of everything in front of you, it protects you and your passengers from wind and road hazards. As such, repairing a broken, cracked, pitted or otherwise damaged windshield must be a top priority if you are a cautious motorist. As prices increase for materials used in auto glass, prices for consumers may follow.
Glass Materials Cost More
Automotive glass is an innovative invention. While it gives you a clear view, it crumbles into relatively harmless cubes when it breaks. It also resists pitting and cracking. To create their product, automotive glassmakers use sand, soda ash, limestone and other raw materials. The cost to mine and refine these materials has increased in recent years. Meanwhile, electricity and labor costs have also continued to climb. As a result, it costs more to produce a replacement windshield today than it did a few years ago.
Windshield Replacement Costs Vary Widely
Even without accounting for increased material and manufacturing expenses, the cost to replace a windshield varies widely. A vehicle’s model year, type, make and style generally determine the exact replacement cost for a new windshield. Fortunately, many insurance plans cover both replacement and repair costs, helping to defray out of pocket expenses for budget-conscious. The best windshield services often work closely with insurers to make a fast, safe and affordable replacement.
Costs May Trickle Down to Consumers
Even though insurers often cover some of the expense of replacing a damaged windshield, you may expect to pay more for your replacement in the coming year. As production and materials costs rise, windshield replacement companies must look for ways to continue to make money. Ultimately, passing increased costs through to consumers may be the only option company owners have to stay in business.
Repair Costs May Not Rise
While replacement windshield costs will likely increase, the cost to repair damage may remain consistent. Since repairing windshields does not require accessing large amounts of raw materials, company owners probably won’t have to raise rates to remain profitable. Therefore, to avoid replacing a windshield altogether, savvy motorists may pursue comparatively cost-effective repairs.
With the increase in cost of raw materials, you should probably plan to pay more for replacement windshields than you have in the past. Still, given the importance of clearly seeing the road to stay safe behind the wheel, you shouldn’t ignore a pitted, cracked or broken windshield.
