Question 1

Should I repair or replace my cracked windshield?

Accepted Answer

Small chips (smaller than a quarter) can often be repaired if they're not in the driver's direct line of sight. However, we recommend replacement for: cracks longer than 6 inches, damage in the driver's critical viewing area, multiple chips or cracks, and edge damage that compromises structural integrity. Our technicians provide honest assessments and will recommend the most cost-effective solution.

Question 2

How long does windshield replacement take?

Accepted Answer

Most windshield replacements take 60-90 minutes to complete. However, you'll need to wait at least 1 hour before driving to allow the adhesive to cure properly. Full adhesive strength is reached in 24 hours. We'll provide specific curing instructions based on weather conditions and adhesive type.

Question 3

Do you offer mobile windshield service?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We provide mobile windshield replacement service throughout Southwest Missouri. Our mobile service is perfect for home, office, or roadside locations. We bring all necessary tools and materials to you, making the process convenient and hassle-free.

Question 4

What warranty do you provide on auto glass?

Accepted Answer

Our workmanship coverage varies by service type. Windshield Installation includes workmanship coverage against installation-related defects such as leaks, adhesive failure, and wind noise as stated in our written warranty terms. Shower Doors include workmanship coverage as stated in our written warranty, and manufacturer warranties on hardware. Windows & Storefronts include workmanship coverage per written warranty terms plus manufacturer warranty on products. Mirrors & Custom Glass include workmanship coverage per written warranty terms on installation and mounting.

Question 5

What are Missouri's window tint laws for cars?

Accepted Answer

Missouri window tint laws (Missouri Revised Statutes Section 307.173) specify: For passenger vehicles - windshield allows non-reflective tint on top 5 inches only, front side windows must allow more than 35% of light through (35% VLT minimum), back side windows and rear window can be any darkness. For trucks and vans - same rules apply. Important: reflective/mirrored tint is NOT allowed, red/amber/yellow tinted windows are prohibited, and dual side mirrors are required if rear window is tinted.

Question 6

Can I tint my front windshield in Missouri?

Accepted Answer

Missouri law allows non-reflective window tint only on the top 5 inches of the windshield (or down to the AS-1 line). This is commonly called a windshield brow or eyebrow tint. Benefits include sun glare protection, UV protection, enhanced comfort, and full legal compliance. Full windshield tinting is illegal in Missouri and will result in tickets.

Question 7

What's the difference between ceramic, carbon, and dyed window tint?

Accepted Answer

Ceramic Tint (Premium) uses nano-ceramic technology for 50-70% heat rejection, 99% UV protection, no signal interference, color-stable, and comes with manufacturer lifetime warranty. Carbon Tint (Mid-Range) uses carbon particles for 40-50% heat rejection, 99% UV protection, matte black finish, won't fade, with 5-10 year warranty. Dyed Tint (Economy) is the most affordable option with good privacy, reduces glare, but only 20-30% heat rejection and may fade to purple over time with 1-3 year warranty.

Question 8

How much does car window tinting cost?

Accepted Answer

Window tinting costs vary by vehicle and film type. Dyed Film: $150-$250 for 2-door, $200-$300 for 4-door, $250-$350 for SUV/Truck. Carbon Film: $250-$350 for 2-door, $300-$400 for 4-door, $400-$500 for SUV/Truck. Ceramic Film: $400-$550 for 2-door, $500-$650 for 4-door, $600-$800 for SUV/Truck. Additional services: windshield brow +$50-$100, sunroof tinting +$75-$125, old tint removal +$50-$150.

Question 9

How long does window tint installation take?

Accepted Answer

Installation time depends on vehicle type: 2-door cars take 1.5-2 hours, 4-door sedans take 2-3 hours, SUVs/trucks take 2.5-4 hours, and windshield brow takes about 30 minutes. After installation, keep windows rolled up for 3-5 days while adhesive cures, expect cloudy appearance that clears in 3-7 days, wait 7 days before cleaning, and avoid sharp objects on tinted windows.

Question 10

What warranty do you provide on window tint?

Accepted Answer

Ceramic Tint comes with manufacturer lifetime warranty on fading, bubbling, peeling, cracking plus 1-year labor warranty. Carbon Tint has 5-10 year manufacturer warranty plus 1-year labor warranty. Dyed Tint has 1-3 year manufacturer warranty plus 1-year labor warranty. Warranty does NOT cover scratches from improper cleaning, damage from window regulator failure, vandalism, or improper aftermarket modifications.

Question 11

Do you offer commercial window tinting for buildings?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We provide professional commercial window film and tinting services for businesses, offices, storefronts, and commercial buildings throughout Southwest Missouri. Benefits include potential energy savings, glare reduction, UV protection, privacy, and security. We serve retail storefronts, office buildings, schools, medical facilities, restaurants, government buildings, banks, and warehouses.

Question 12

What are the benefits of Low-E glass windows?

Accepted Answer

Low-E (low emissivity) coatings provide significant energy savings and comfort benefits: reduce heating and cooling costs by 10-15%, block up to 99% of harmful UV rays that fade furniture and flooring, maintain more consistent indoor temperatures, and preserve visible light while blocking heat. Most homeowners see payback within 3-5 years through energy savings.

Question 13

How do I measure for replacement windows?

Accepted Answer

We provide free, professional measurements to ensure perfect fit. While rough measurements can be helpful for initial estimates, our technicians take precise measurements before ordering any glass. This eliminates delays and ensures proper installation the first time.

Question 14

What's the difference between tempered and laminated glass?

Accepted Answer

Tempered Glass is heat-treated for safety and breaks into small, less dangerous pieces. Required by code for doors, sidelights, and areas near stairs. Laminated Glass has two layers bonded with an interlayer that holds fragments together when broken. Provides security, sound reduction, and UV protection. Often used for ground-floor windows and storm protection.

Question 15

Do you install frameless shower doors?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We specialize in custom frameless and semi-frameless shower enclosures. We template each installation for perfect fit and use high-quality hardware for durability. Our shower doors come with proper sealing and we offer various glass options including clear, frosted, and textured glass.

Question 16

What types of residential windows and patio doors do you install?

Accepted Answer

We provide complete window and patio door solutions: vinyl windows (energy-efficient, low-maintenance), aluminum windows (durable and sleek), glass replacement in existing frames, vinyl patio doors (insulated sliding doors), aluminum patio doors (heavy-duty), patio door roller adjustment, and patio door maintenance including weather stripping, locks, and handles.

Question 17

What makes EFCO storefronts better than other brands?

Accepted Answer

EFCO is our preferred storefront manufacturer because of superior engineering and proven performance in Missouri's climate: advanced thermal breaks reduce energy costs, engineered drainage systems prevent water infiltration, tested to exceed wind load requirements, industry-leading warranties with local factory support, and wide range of finishes and configurations.

Question 18

Do you work with architects and contractors?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We regularly collaborate with architects, contractors, and building owners on commercial projects. We provide design assistance, specification support, and project coordination. Our team understands construction schedules and building codes, ensuring smooth project completion.

Question 19

What security glass options do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer various security glazing solutions: laminated security glass with multiple layers for forced entry resistance, security film applied to existing glass for shatter resistance, bullet-resistant glass for high-security applications, and impact-resistant glass meeting FEMA and IBC requirements.

Question 20

Do you repair commercial storefront doors?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We provide comprehensive commercial door repair services: door sweeps to prevent drafts, weather stripping for energy efficiency, hinge replacement, pivot adjustments, door closers installation and repair, and threshold replacement. Regular maintenance extends the life of your storefront door system and prevents costly replacements.

Question 21

What custom mirror services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We provide complete custom mirror fabrication and installation: bathroom vanity mirrors custom-cut to any size, wall mirrors for living rooms and hallways, gym and dance studio mirrors with proper mounting, closet door mirrors (sliding and fixed), and antique mirror restoration. All mirrors are professionally measured, cut, and installed with proper safety backing and mounting hardware.

Question 22

Can you create custom glass tabletops and shelves?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We fabricate custom glass tabletops, shelves, and display cases. Tabletops available in 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, or 1/2 inch thickness. Shelving includes tempered glass for bookcases and display cabinets. Edge options include flat polish, pencil edge, beveled edge, or ogee edge profiles. Glass types include clear, tinted (bronze, gray, blue), or low-iron ultra-clear glass. All furniture glass is tempered for safety.

Question 23

How do I clean and maintain custom mirrors?

Accepted Answer

Proper mirror maintenance keeps them looking great for decades: use a microfiber cloth with water or glass cleaner (avoid ammonia-based cleaners), don't allow water to sit on edges, avoid abrasive cleaners, bleach, or acidic solutions, ensure good ventilation in bathrooms, and ensure mirrors are properly secured. With proper care, custom mirrors maintain clarity and finish for 20+ years.

Question 24

What is security window film and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

Security window film is thick, adhesive-backed polyester film that increases impact resistance: holds broken glass fragments together preventing dangerous shards, delays intruders by making windows harder to breach (15+ extra seconds), helps windows withstand flying debris during severe weather, blocks 99% of UV rays, and reduces glass fragmentation in explosion scenarios. We install 8-mil to 15-mil security films with proper edge-to-edge application.

Question 25

Is laminated glass better than security film?

Accepted Answer

Both offer excellent security with different advantages. Laminated Security Glass: two or more glass layers bonded with interlayer, better for new construction, offers superior sound reduction (30-40%), highest security level, more expensive but permanent. Security Window Film: applied to existing glass without replacement, more cost-effective for retrofit, faster installation, good security with UV and solar heat benefits, can be removed or replaced.

Question 26

Do you install bullet-resistant glass?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide bullet-resistant glazing systems for banks, government buildings, schools, and high-security facilities: Level 1-3 protection stopping handgun ammunition (UL 752 rated), transaction windows with speak-through systems and deal trays, polycarbonate options for lighter weight, proper mounting in ballistic-rated frames, and custom fabrication to your specifications. Lead time is typically 4-6 weeks.

Question 27

Does insurance cover windshield replacement?

Accepted Answer

Many auto insurance policies provide glass coverage, sometimes with no deductible. Full coverage typically includes glass damage (check your policy for deductible details). Liability only does not cover windshield replacement. Some policies require a specific glass coverage rider. We work directly with all major insurance companies and file claims for you. We verify your coverage before starting work.

Question 28

What's covered under your workmanship warranty?

Accepted Answer

Our workmanship coverage varies by service type: Windshield Installation covers installation-related defects such as leaks, adhesive failure, and wind noise per written warranty terms. Shower Doors include workmanship coverage plus manufacturer warranties on hardware. Windows & Storefronts include workmanship coverage per written warranty plus manufacturer warranty on products. Mirrors & Custom Glass include workmanship coverage on installation and mounting. Warranty does not cover damage from accidents, improper use, or normal wear.

Question 29

Which insurance companies do you work with?

Accepted Answer

We're approved to work with all major insurance carriers including State Farm, Allstate, Progressive, GEICO, Farmers Insurance, Liberty Mutual, USAA, Nationwide, American Family Insurance, Shelter Insurance, and many others. We file claims directly with your insurance company. Missouri law allows you to choose your glass provider even if your insurer has a preferred shop.

Question 30

Do you provide free estimates?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We provide free, no-obligation estimates for all glass services. Our estimates include detailed specifications, materials, and installation costs. All pricing is an estimate only and subject to final measurement, material selection, and market conditions. We're happy to meet at your location to assess the project. Estimates are valid for 30 days.

Question 31

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept cash, personal checks, and all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover). Payment is typically due upon completion unless other arrangements are made in advance. For large commercial projects, we may require a deposit before ordering materials.

Question 32

How far do you travel for glass service?

Accepted Answer

Our primary service area covers Southwest Missouri including: Aurora (headquarters) with same-day service available, within 30 miles (Monett, Republic, Nixa, Ozark, Branson), and extended service area (Cassville, Shell Knob, Mount Vernon, Springfield). Contact us to confirm service availability in your specific area. We're often able to accommodate projects outside our typical service radius.

Question 33

Do you offer emergency glass repair service?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We provide 24/7 emergency glass repair service for situations involving safety or security concerns. This includes broken storefront glass, damaged residential windows, and windshield emergencies. Emergency service rates apply for after-hours, weekend, and holiday calls. We also offer temporary board-up services when immediate glass replacement isn't possible.

The Glass Shop LLC

Storefront Glass Repair & Replacement

Storefront Glass Repair & Replacement