Lucky Dog Auto, Author at Lucky Dog Auto Glass

What are the Auto Tint Laws in Washington State?

Posted on March 26, 2021March 26, 2021 by Lucky Dog Auto

Tinting windows has a variety of benefits. By blocking the brunt of bright sunrays, drivers can protect their upholstery from sun bleaching, maintain a more comfortable temperature inside the vehicle with less stress to the air conditioning system, and shield car passengers from harmful UV rays. Darkening windows also leads to more privacy and security, preventing people from easily seeing inside the vehicle and finding valuables.

There are many reasons drivers choose to tint their car windows. Before you tint, be aware of any relevant laws. Auto tint laws vary from state to state, so it’s very important for drivers to be aware of these laws so they can ensure to follow the laws properly in their state.

How Much Tint Can Be Applied?

In Washington state, the maximum level of auto tint material to be applied to any window (except the windshield) must have a total reflectance of 35% or less, and a light transmission of 24% or more for sedans. For SUVs and vans there is no limit to the darkness of tint that can be applied to the rear side windows and back glass. If a car is operated by or carrying a passenger a person who has a written medical exemption from a licensed physician, then a higher degree of light reduction is allowed on all windows and the top 6 inches of the windshield. Car owners may apply a clear film to the windshield if the film reduces or eliminates UV light.

There are several types of tint that are not allowed in Washington state, including: black, gold, red, or yellow material; mirror finish products; or liquid tint that is sprayed or brushed onto the window. There may not be any more than a single sheet of sun screening material to any window.

Devices to diffuse sunlight may be applied to all windows behind the driver as long as the device 1) reduces the driver’s field of vision uniformly and 2) reduces vision by no more than 50%. If drivers place a sunscreen device on the rear window, the car must have outside rearview mirrors on both sides.

These are the basics of window tint laws in Washington. Lucky Dog Auto Glass shares this information with our valued customers as a convenience, but we do not offer window tinting. We do offer auto glass repair and installation in Kent, Washington. Contact us today to make an appointment!

How to Tell If Your Windshield Has Been Installed Incorrectly

Posted on March 5, 2021March 5, 2021 by Lucky Dog Auto

When you have your windshield replaced, it’s essential that it’s done correctly because it plays an important role in the safety of your vehicle. Not only do windshields protect you and your passengers from the elements, but they also provide structural support in the event of accidents. For example, the windshield provides up to 45% of the structural integrity of the cabin in a front-end collision and up to 60% in a rollover. An improperly installed windshield may not provide enough strength to keep the cabin safe or be able to withstand the impact of a deployed airbag.

With that in mind, how can you tell if your windshield has been installed incorrectly? Here are a few of the most common signs:

Technician Mistakes

If you’re able to see the windshield repair process, one of the first signs that the windshield is not being installed correctly is if the windshield wipers are still attached and propped up while the windshield is being installed. This shortcut is a practice called stuffing that can cause air leaks and poor bonding of the new glass to the vehicle. Proper windshield installation takes requires the removal of the wipers and cowl to ensure proper decking and installation. A second mistake to look for is the technicians not wearing gloves. Since windshields are installed using urethane (which secures it to the vehicle) they shouldn’t be handled by bare hands. The oils in the skin can break the urethane down and reduce its ability to adhere properly – which can result in leaks or premature failure.

The Windshield Sits Unevenly in the Frame

If the windshield pokes out or sits unevenly in the frame, that’s another sign that it’s not installed properly. This could have been a mistake made during installation or the installer could have chosen the wrong windshield for your vehicle.

Rattling and Leaks

After you’ve had a new windshield installed and it’s had a chance to properly adhere, it’s always a good idea to take it out for a test drive. If you notice any rattling or whooshing sounds coming from the windshield at a moderate speed, that’s a sure sign that it wasn’t installed properly. Taking your car through the car wash can also help you check to make sure there are no leaks in the seams of the windshield. Be sure to wait the specified period of time after the installation to do this as the urethane needs time to properly cure.

Other considerations

If the technician or installation company tells you that you can drive immediately after your windshield’s been installed, this is also a red flag. The adhesive that’s used to secure the windshield to your vehicle should be allowed to fully cure, which takes approximately 30 minutes – 8 hours depending on the urethane that is used. This is known as the Safe Drive Away Time and that time should be noted when the vehicle is returned to the customer. Lucky Dog proudly uses a 30 minute cure urethane made by SIKA to ensure a quick and safe drive time.

Avoid Windshield Woes by Choosing a Reputable Installation Company

One of the best ways to avoid the above issues and the hassle that comes with them is by choosing a reputable installation company, like Lucky Dog Auto Glass. We’re a local family-owned and operated company that understands auto glass installation shouldn’t be seen as an assembly line commodity, but rather an essential safety feature of your vehicle. We take every step to ensure that your auto glass is installed correctly, the first time. If you’ve recently had a windshield installed and would like an assessment, or you’d like a free estimate on your cracked or chipped windshield, contact us today at 253-569-9403!

Can Cold Weather Make a Crack in Your Windshield Worse?

Posted on January 29, 2021February 11, 2021 by Lucky Dog Auto

Whether you have a small crack starting or a larger crack you’ve been watching slowly spread, windshield cracks are a serious concern. Windshields provide approximately 30% of a vehicle’s structural support and they play a huge role in protecting you and your passengers in the event of a rollover accident. Although these types of accidents aren’t very common, they account for 35% of passenger fatalities – so a sturdy, structurally sound windshield is vitally important. Unfortunately, cold temperatures can make cracks worse and decrease the safety of your vehicle.

How Does Cold Weather Affect the Glass?

Windshield glass is affected by changes in temperature – it expands and contracts. So if it’s really cold outside, the glass in the windshield will become more concave, which puts stress on damaged areas, like chips or cracks. This can lead to cracks in the windshield expanding horizontally. The Motor Industry Research Association found that once the temperature drops to 32 degrees Fahrenheit, a windshield is 60% more likely to spread. If the temperature reaches 14 degrees Fahrenheit, the chances of the crack spreading go up to 80%.

To make matters worse, using your defroster on a cold winter day can add additional stress to the glass (and increase the chance of the crack spreading) because of the drastic difference in temperature between the outside of the glass and the interior.

Can I Get the Crack Repaired?

A repair may be possible if the damage isn’t too deep and the crack is less than three inches long. It’s best to address cracks as soon as possible because that increases the likelihood that you’ll only need a repair, rather than a complete windshield replacement. Waiting until a crack is so large that it affects your visibility isn’t only unsafe; it’s more than likely going to cost significantly more than taking care of a small crack – and you may be at risk for a citation, too.

If you’ve noticed cracks or chips in your windshield, contact Lucky Dog Auto Glass at 253-569-9403 for a free estimate! We’re happy to evaluate the damage and let you know whether it can be repaired or if a full replacement would be the safer option.

Safe for a Rainy Day: The Top Windshield Treatment for Your Vehicle

Posted on December 4, 2020February 11, 2021 by Lucky Dog Auto

Do you ever struggle to see out your windshield when it’s raining? Maybe you’ve noticed that the morning fog and leftover road grit create a streaky sludge that even brand new wiper blades can’t keep up with? It can be a frustrating experience, but more importantly, it can be downright dangerous.

Though there are different types of window treatments on the market, only a glass coating engineered to bond with the silica in your windshield produces clear visibility through rain and mud. At Lucky Dog Auto Glass, we’ve had great results with what we consider the best product on the market, GlassParency.

The hydrophobic protection of GlassParency increases visibility in rain and snow. It improves the optical clarity of your windshield, reducing both night and daytime glare. In addition to keeping you and your passengers safer, it keeps the glass pristine and is backed by a 3-year warranty.

Other Alternatives

There are other types of treatments out there; although they work, their performance is much more limited. These are:

Silicone-based—This option is the cheapest but is least effective. It sits on the top of the surface. While it does repel water, it needs to be re-applied frequently, so it’s best in dryer regions, such as the Southwest. An example of this is Rain-X Yellow windshield treatment, which is specifically designed to work with the company’s windshield blades.
Fluorinated-based—A mid-range option that is best for areas where rainfall is average, such as the Midwest. Its signature feature is water beading, allowing water to easily roll off the glass. AQUAPEL is a good fluorinated-based treatment, and though it lasts longer than silicone-based products, it does not bond with the glass, allowing grit and grime to set up shop on your glass.

GlassParency works best because although your glass seems smooth, it’s actually filled with craters, hills, and valleys. We apply the treatment to your windshield in a three-step process. The first is to cleanse the pores and ensure the glass is free of contaminants to improve the bonding process. Next, we apply the first chemical, which reacts to the silica and grows a substrate within the pores of the glass. A second chemical then combines with the first to form a barrier that even bugs, dirt, and mud can’t stick to.

Better vision? A more aesthetically pleasing appearance? Lasting three years with just one application? No wonder we’re stoked to share this nano-technological advancement with you! When it comes to windshield treatment, repair, or replacement, there’s only one dog in Kent, and that’s Lucky Dog Auto Glass. Give us a call today at 253-569-9403.

Which Should You Choose: OEM or Aftermarket Auto Glass

Posted on November 6, 2020February 11, 2021 by Lucky Dog Auto

Chipped, cracked, shattered—auto glass issues don’t just sound awful. They look bad and can even cause safety issues. You need to get it replaced ASAP, but how do you know what to believe about auto glass replacement quality?

Most people will say that you should only replace your auto glass with an OEM product, meaning replacement glass is designed and approved by your carmaker to fit and work right. Others will tell you that aftermarket glass—which is an unauthorized copy of the original—can be less expensive, but just as good as OEM glass.

It turns out to be more complicated than it looks at first glance.

Our Go-To Glass is OEM

Most of the glass we install in cars is OEM glass. Why? Because it was built to fit your car or truck. There is no concern about whether the product is produced to the high standards the car manufacturer demands. We’ve had great success installing OEM glass in thousands of cars.

So, end of story, right?

The truth is that manufacturers bid out contracts for their glass, and there are only a limited number of glassmakers out there. Though these glassmakers are licensed to stamp the manufacturer’s name and logo on that piece of glass, they also make aftermarket glass. In fact, they might make the aftermarket glass that could replace yours.

OEM manufacturers also know that consumers fixate on OEM parts, so they slow production on OEM window glass and only distribute through “approved” partners. This elevates prices. Vehicle manufacturers also make it difficult for aftermarket companies to produce specialized glass with rain sensors and antennas, which also drives up cost and their profit margins.

Is your Conception of Aftermarket Glass Half-full?

First off, not all replacement glass is equal.

Some replacement glass is cheap and just not as good. It may barely meet government standards and fail to meet manufacturer standards. These are the products that give aftermarket glass a terrible reputation. We avoid it, and you should, too.

Other replacement glass, though, exceeds both what the manufacturer and government demand. It may even be as good as OEM glass and costs less too.

Here is where experience and trust come in. If the right OEM part isn’t available, or maybe you want something less expensive, we can find you the best aftermarket option.

Dealing with Insurers

Unless your car is less than two years old, most insurers push aftermarket glass because it costs them less. You can pay for an OEM endorsement on your policy, which ensures OEM replacement parts—but, otherwise, if you choose OEM glass, you may have to pay the difference in cost between that and the “approved” glass.

You can, though, choose who you want to work with to replace your windshield. Insurers will push you toward their partners. You can take your chances there, or you can opt for a local company that is your advocate and will make sure you optimize your policy, get the best glass possible, and pay as little out of pocket as possible.

Who’s the lucky dog, now?

For a free estimate and straight talk, call the pros at Lucky Dog Auto Glass at 253-569-9403 today!

Worn Wiper Blades: An Underappreciated Cause of Windshield Damage

Posted on October 26, 2020February 11, 2021 by Lucky Dog Auto

Windshield wipers get a lot of use during the rainy season, and with that comes a fair amount of wear. Not just wear on your wiper blades, either! Worn out wiper blades can cause some serious damage to your windshield over time. Here’s a look at how this happens and what you can do to prevent it.

How Does the Damage Occur?

Windshield wiper blades have long, thin rubber arms that cover a thin metal blade. Every time the blade arms move back and forth across your windshield, the rubber slowly deteriorates, which can cause it to eventually wear away entirely. Once this happens, there’s nothing to protect the glass from the metal scraping across it and scratches are very likely to occur. It’s important to replace your wiper blades as soon as they show signs of wear to prevent your windshield from becoming damaged.

Wiper blades typically last about 6-12 months, but this can vary based on factors like the weather and the conditions you typically drive in. Rainier years will put more wear and tear on your wiper blades, making it necessary to replace them more frequently. For this reason, it’s a good idea to inspect your wiper blades on a regular basis. One easy way to remember is to take a look at them (or ask your mechanic) every time you have your oil changed. Even if your wiper blades are working well, they should be replaced as soon as you notice any streaking or visible metal.

Other Considerations

Windshield wipers may seem like a minor fixture in the grand scheme of your car, but worn blades can significantly affect your safety, as the damage they cause can severely limit your visibility. Even small scratches can obstruct your view and make it more difficult to see potential hazards.

Small imperfections (including cracks and pits) in glass can also lower the integrity of a windshield. This means if you get into an accident the force of the collision is more likely to cause the windshield to shatter, which could result in serious injuries.

Beyond safety issues, there are also legality issues to consider. Washington doesn’t have specific laws regarding damage to windshields, but there are regulations that cover windshield obstruction as well as the condition of windshield wipers. According to WAC 204-10-024, drivers “must have no obstruction forward of the windshield that extends more than two inches upward into the horizontally forward projected vision area of the windshield.” The projected vision area covers the area from the top of the steering wheel to the top of the front of the fenders or hood. If you have multiple cracks in the windshield or one within the vision area, you could be at risk of receiving a citation.

Restoring the Glass

If your wiper blades have damaged your windshield, you’ll generally have one option: replace the windshield.

If you wait to replace the blades, there could be considerable damage, like multiple scratches across the windshield or deep scratches. Unfortunately, once the damage in the glass reaches a certain depth, it’s not repairable. Your only option is to replace the windshield. If the damage is extensive on the driver’s side, even if it’s not very deep, it could still require replacement.

There are DIY repair kits available, however, it’s important to understand that nothing can replace the expert eye of auto glass professionals. Windshield repairs and recommendations are always best left to glass specialists, as there can be damage that’s not visible or other considerations. If you’ve noticed your blades have started to scratch your windshield, the best first step to take is to replace the blades. Then, give Lucky Dog Auto Glass a call! We’re happy to evaluate the damage and let you know whether it’s a candidate for repair or if a replacement would be the safer option. Contact us today at 253-569-9403 for a free estimate!

Should I Repair My Windshield, or Replace It?

Posted on October 23, 2020October 23, 2020 by Lucky Dog Auto

Your windshield takes a beating. Things like rocks, gravel, dust, and other types of road debris can get kicked up while driving, causing areas of the windshield to become cracked, chipped, or pitted. It can be difficult to gauge the extent of the damage just by looking at it, but windshield damage shouldn’t be ignored as it can become a safety issue. Cracks can spread, scratches and pits can distort your line of sight – not to mention that damage to the glass can affect the integrity of your windshield and the structure of your vehicle! That brings us to the big question: can the damage be repaired, or do you need a complete windshield replacement?

Repair or Replacement?

One thing that’s important to understand about windshields is that although they look like a large, single piece of glass they’re made up of three layers: an inner layer of glass, a piece of polymer or resin, and an outer layer of glass.

There are several factors that we evaluate before deciding whether to repair or replace a windshield. Fortunately, small cracks and chips can typically be safely repaired if the area is small enough to be covered by a quarter. However, if the damage is within your line of sight or the windshield is old and covered in small pits and divots, it should be replaced. If your windshield can be repaired, the repair process is straightforward.

For chips, a clear, curable resin is injected into the outer layer of glass. This restores the integrity of the windshield and improves its appearance. Once the resin is cured, it’s polished to create a smooth surface that prevents the chip or crack from spreading. If you have damage that’s on the deeper side, the damage may be slightly enlarged or deepened with a drill so that the resin has a chance to penetrate the damage better.

If your windshield can be repaired, it’s best to do it immediately to prevent the damage from getting worse. Although it’s not common, small chips can potentially spread if you hit a large pothole, drive down a bumpy road, or encounter other situations that cause a jolt to your vehicle.

Avoid DIY Kits; Call the Pros

Whether you have a small chip or a large crack, it’s important to have your windshield evaluated by auto glass specialists. Although there are DIY kits out on the market, these can compromise your visibility or the integrity of your windshield. Our trained technicians will assess the damage and find the best solutions for your safety and budget. Contact Lucky Dog Auto Glass today at 253-569-9403 for a free estimate.

Worn Wiper Blades: An Underappreciated Cause of Windshield Damage

How Does the Damage Occur?

Wiper blades typically last about 6-12 months, but this can vary based on factors like the weather and the conditions you typically drive-in. Rainier years will put more wear and tear on your wiper blades, making it necessary to replace them more frequently. For this reason, it’s a good idea to inspect your wiper blades on a regular basis. One easy way to remember is to take a look at them (or ask your mechanic) every time you have your oil changed. Even if your wiper blades are working well, they should be replaced as soon as you notice any streaking or visible metal.

Other Considerations

Restoring the Glass

If your wiper blades have damaged your windshield, you’ll generally have one option: replace the windshield.

OE, OEM, and Aftermarket Windshields: What’s the Difference?

Posted on October 7, 2020February 11, 2021 by Lucky Dog Auto

If you need your windshield replaced, you’ll discover you have several options: OE, OEM, and aftermarket. Which one would be the best choice for your vehicle? Here’s a breakdown of how each type of glass is classified and how they differ:

OE, OEM, or Aftermarket?

OE stands for “original equipment,” and includes the windshield your car was fitted with when it was made at the factory. Although OE windshields are produced by a separate, specialized company, they’re branded as the manufacturer’s own. So for example, an OE windshield that’s used in a BMW will have official BMW packaging and part numbers even though it’s actually made by another manufacturer. Auto manufacturers bid out contracts for auto glass yearly, so the company that made the OE glass in your make and model in 2004 may not be the same manufacturer used in the same make and model in 2007 – instead, the 2004 company many now be selling OEM auto glass.

An OEM (original equipment manufacturer) is a company that manufactures auto glass to be the same specifications (size, shape, color, thickness, and durability) as the OE glass, however, it’s not necessarily from the same distributor that supplied the glass for assembly in the factory. There may be some slight variations in OEM glass, but it’s nearly identical to OE and typically less expensive. Some OEMs will sell parts directly to consumers under their own brand name but unless these parts are supplied directly from the automaker, they can’t be classified or marketed as OE.

Aftermarket is a term that’s used widely for any alternative replacement part not fitted in the factory or produced by an OEM. These replacement parts and performance upgrades are not endorsed or branded by manufacturers, either. The quality of aftermarket parts can vary greatly; some may be lower quality while others may be comparable to an OE/OEM part. Regardless of the quality, aftermarket parts are typically less expensive than OEM parts.

OEM: A Good Balance Between Cost & Quality

The majority of windshield replacements we perform are with OEM windshields, as these provide a good balance between high-quality and cost-effectiveness. Although some claim that aftermarket glass is 100% equivalent to OEM, there are some differences. Non-OEM parts and components must be made slightly different than OE or OEM parts to avoid copyright infringement, so although they may look the same at first glance there may be slight variations in the way the windshield fits or its finish. An aftermarket windshield may not work properly with ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems), either which could impact your vehicle’s safety features. Aftermarket glass parts also aren’t typically accepted by new car manufacturers for warranty claims and in many cases, they violate the repair requirements of leasing contracts.

Ultimately, the type of glass you choose will likely come down to cost and personal preferences. Our team here at Lucky Dog Auto Glass is happy to offer recommendations to help you choose a windshield that meets your needs and budget. Contact us at 253-569-9403 for a free estimate or send us a message online.

How to Tell Whether You Need to Replace or Repair Your Windshield

Posted on September 4, 2020February 11, 2021 by Lucky Dog Auto

If your windshield becomes damaged, one of the main questions you’ll likely have is whether it can be repaired or if you’ll need a complete replacement. Before you make that decision, there are a couple of important factors you should keep in mind.

What does your insurance policy cover?

The cost of a complete windshield replacement can vary a lot depending on your insurance policy and your type of vehicle. Most newer vehicles have ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistant System) technology located in the windshield, which significantly increases the cost of windshield replacement. Before you make a decision, it’s best to know what will be covered, what won’t, and how much you’ll have to pay out of pocket.

Do you have damage around the edge of your windshield?

Unfortunately, if there are cracks or chips around the edges, the whole structure of your windshield is compromised – which is a serious safety concern. In this case, it’s best to choose a full replacement rather than a repair.

How is your line of sight and visibility?

If your windshield is damaged near your line of sight, it could impact your visibility, even if the glass is repaired. The most dangerous part of the windshield to have damage is at about 12 inches in front of your steering wheel, extending up to the height of your windshield wipers. If you have damage within this area, we recommend replacing it for your safety.

How long is the crack?

If the entire damaged area can be covered with the size of a quarter, it can typically be repaired. For cracks longer than this, you will likely need a full replacement.

How deep is the chip?

Windshields are made from 2 layers of glass, with a layer of plastic in between. If the crack is deep enough that it reaches the inner layer of glass, it can’t be repaired. Any type of damage on the interior layer of glass will need a complete windshield replacement.

Hopefully, this has helped you decide whether you should get your windshield repaired or replaced but if you’re still unsure, contact us! We’re happy to evaluate your windshield and give you a free estimate. Schedule your estimate appointment by calling (253) 569-9403 or fill out our online form.

Why ADAS Systems Are Important To Your Safety

Posted on July 22, 2020March 18, 2021 by Lucky Dog Auto

What is ADAS? (Driver Assistance Systems)

Most modern vehicles now feature ADAS in some form. ADAS stands for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, and they can refer to any safety systems in your vehicle that work to avoid collisions and alert the driver to potential issues. You may not even realize you have ADAS, but is your vehicle equipped with collision avoidance systems, automatic braking, integrated GPS, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, or Bluetooth for hands-free phone calls? Then you have ADAS. These systems have adapted over time to allow for a smoother, safer driving experience. From warning drivers when leaving lanes to automatic braking to prevent collisions, when used properly these features can reduce accidents.

ADAS and Your Windshield

ADAS use technology to make your driving experience easier and safer, so it’s a good thing they are becoming more widely available. It turns out there are several ADAS features that can interact with your windshield. This includes a light sensor that triggers automatic headlights, a rain sensor that triggers automatic windshield wipers, a heads up display that projects onto the windshield, a heated windshield that melts ice and snow, and night vision that allows you to see hot spots in the road.

As cars get smarter and smarter, it’s important for people fixing cars to get smarter as well! If your vehicle is getting maintenance or repairs, it’s important for you to know about the features on your car because you will need to ensure that anyone who works on your vehicle is knowledgeable and well-equipped. If a rock chips your front windshield, you want to ensure that not only is the glass repaired, but any systems that may connect to your windshield are correctly calibrated and functional. These are amazing systems that can help you drive safer, but if they are not correctly hooked up, then they can’t work. Make sure your car or truck’s ADAS systems are fully operational by trusting an auto glass shop that uses state of the art equipment and the finest materials while staying updated on the latest technologies and safety measures. Whatever kind of vehicle you have, you can trust Lucky Dog Auto Glass to safely and properly fix your auto glass.

Contact us today at 253-569-9403 to schedule your appointment.

Make An Appointment