So your windshield is broken/cracked and now you have two options. OEM or aftermarket?

It may be a tough decision to make, since both types have their drawbacks.

With the OEM you have peace-of-mind knowing that it is original, but they can cost double, even triple the price of aftermarket windshields.

Which one is right for you? Well at any auto glass replacement shop will give you the price of an aftermarket windshield first, as it is the best value for the money.

You can request an OEM quote and decide for yourself if you think the cost is beneficial, and sometimes, the cost is not that far off.
These are OEM manufacturers of windshields.

Each one services different manufacturers.

windshield companies

These are not the only ones, but these are the primary manufacturers used in the US.

For the aftermarket manufacturers, it is difficult to name them all, as there are hundreds.

How to Avoid Damage to Your Windshield

While the technology behind auto glass repair has advanced in leaps and bounds over the last few decades, and made low cost auto glass replacement available to everyone, it is still preferable to avoid damage to your windshield in the first place. Windshield damage is usually the very definition of an accident, and it is impossible to totally protect yourself from ever experiencing it. However, there are some steps that you can take that will lower your risk of windshield damage and decrease the likelihood of another trip to your local auto glass repair shop.

Distance

Probably the easiest way of avoiding damage to your windshield is to keep a safe distance from trucks with loose objects in their beds and trunks when you are on the road. Most windshield damage from objects is caused by items or debris flying off of trucks, particularly trucks that haul construction materials, scrap or garbage.

Extreme Temperatures

Always do your best to park in cool and shady areas where the sun will not be directly beating down on your windshield. Prolonged exposure will eventually weaken your windshield and make it more susceptible to damage or cracking. Existing damage will also spread and worsen under extreme temperatures.

Sudden Impact

Any sudden jolt to your vehicle will have an effect on the longevity of your windshield, regardless of whether or not you are driving it. The intense vibrations caused by the slamming of car doors can slowly damage windshields. Any minor cracks will also spread as a result of sudden impacts.

Ammonia-Free Cleaners

Glass cleaners that contain ammonia will damage your windshield’s tint. Use a cotton or microfiber towel instead for an easier time and a better outcome. You can also use vinegar or alcohol for the same effect as expensive store-bought cleaners.

Address Any Problems Right Away

Do not let damage or problems build up, as they will only get worse with time. Visit your local auto glass replacement professionals as soon as you see some damage to your windshield, as this will ensure that you end up paying the least and you do not risk your safety by driving with a damaged windshield.

Spring is now upon us, and with the springtime comes the dreaded rain storms. If you’re worried about your vehicle staying dry in the springtime rain, there are plenty of options that can set your mind at ease.First, it is crucial to diagnose what worries you about your vehicle. Is your windshield (or you’re your side windows) chipped, cracked, or worse? If so, your ride might not only get its interior soaked, but it could be extremely dangerous to drive in under any conditions.

The most important part of rain-proofing your car is to first fix any damage that could cause leaks or further breakage. This can easily be done by bringing your car in for a quick repair or replacement. It is absolutely worth getting this diagnosis done. Some nicks and cracks are too deep or unstable to attempt repair. Any “patches” done on badly damaged glass may end up making the problem worse and you will likely end up wasting your money when it is ineffective.
When a chip or crack appears on your windshield, the crack itself is digging in to the glass. This means that with any force (even rain water) that falls onto your windshield, the more likely that crack is to expand or shatter your windshield. Even driving over a pothole can cause a jarring vibration that finally does in that ominous crack, as well.
In order to properly rainproof your windshield for the spring weather, be sure to first diagnose and fix those underlying problems. Invest long-term in your safety—fixing or replacing your windshield will rainproof and dustproof your vehicle as well as protect you from the snow, rocks, and debris that gets kicked up in everyday life.
For even better results, after repairs are complete, consider rain repellent such as Rain Ex or water repellent car wax, which are commonly used in windshield wiper fluid and applied by hand, respectively.Rain repellent causes rain drops to bead on the windshield, no matter how big the downpour, so that the driver can retain maximum visibility through rainstorms. Rather than sheets of water creating an impenetrable wall in front of you, solutions such as wax or Rain Ex are excellent ways of making your drive safer for under $15.

You can also purchase windshield wipers with Rain Ex embedded in the wiper materials, which is a win-win, as you will have new and perfectly functioning wiper blades ready for rain, and the rain repellent that will make driving a lot safer.
Make sure that when preparing to rainproof your vehicle, you take the safe route for you and your family—repair or replace your windshield and invest in the long-term. Come summer, fall, and winter, your car will then be protected by dust, rocks, snow, and other environmental entities—Rain Ex will not protect you then—by making the necessary repairs now, you can be worry-free for what each season throws at you.