Frequently Asked Questions

Portland Glass services are always performed by our team of glass repair specialists.

Lead paint was used in more than 38 million homes before it was banned in 1978. This type of paint can create toxic dust when disturbed. The EPA’s Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) program was established to reduce lead contamination by training and certifying contractors to carry out simple lead-safe practices while on the job.

The purpose of the RRP Rule is to minimize lead-based paint exposure during painting, repair, and renovation activities. This is a key effort in reducing lead poisoning from home exposure due to lead contaminants. The RRP Rule also works to benefit adults and older children who are adversely impacted by lead-based paint dust exposure. Because lead poisoning can cause a wide range of behavioral, emotional, intellectual, and physical problems, this prevention-based program is a cost-effective solution.

Yes, we’re proud to be an RRP certified company with a full team of certified installers.

R-value represents the resistance a material has to the flow of heat. The R-value measures a material’s insulation properties. The higher this value is, the greater the resistance to heat. Insulated glass has air pockets that help to increase its R-value.

U-value is an insulation rating for transparent objects that represents the amount of heat that escapes a surface, like a window. The lower the U-value, the better the insulation.

All of our windows meet egress requirements in some capacity, depending on size.

Yes, depending on size and hardware.

This type of glass is designed to reflect heat without letting warm internal air escape, which helps conserve energy.

Your argon gas-filled windows will show no difference, but low-E coating does add a slight tint to the glass. We suggest you use them in conjunction with each other.

Grids, also known as mullions, are vertical or horizontal slats on or in between glass that simulate divided panes or lites.

Federal Glazing Standards of 1977 require that safety glazing materials must be used in any door and anything within two feet of a door. In order to reduce the risk of injury, any glass within 18 inches of the floor must also be safety glass.

Portland Glass specialists consider a few factors when determining if your best option is windshield repair or replacement: size, location, and time span. Though there are a few exceptions, chips larger than a quarter and cracks generally require windshield replacement, and cracks that have splintered to the edge of the windshield typically require replacement due to their tendency to spread. If the chip or crack is directly in your line of vision, it will typically require replacement, too, since the repair does not always cure clearly, leaving a slight outline in the repair area. Additionally, the longer you wait to address any chips or cracks, the more likely dirt and debris will build up in the area. This makes it difficult to perform a successful repair, so it often requires a full replacement.

Portland Glass proudly offers our Windshield Protection Plan, a 12-month guarantee to protect our work and your investment. We offer the following options:

• Windshield Protection Plan – We include this windshield replacement guarantee at absolutely no cost to you when we replace your windshield. For the 12 months following your windshield replacement, the Windshield Protection Plan covers unlimited repairs or a single replacement. The guarantee covers the cost of glass; labor and installation materials are not included. Our specialists will opt to repair your windshield if it can be done safely. This saves you time and money, and your plan coverage will remain intact.
• WPP Future Installation Option – For an additional charge, we also offer a WPP Future Installation Option. As an upgraded version of our Windshield Protection Plan, you’ll get the same great coverage plus the added benefit of labor and installation materials. This extra coverage means your repair or replacement costs will be covered.
• WPP Value Package – When you want the highest level of protection, choose our WPP Value Package. In addition to the coverage offered in our Windshield Protection Plan and WPP Future Installation Option, we provide your vehicle with new windshield wiper blades and an application of glass protectant. One application leaves your windshield more resistant to scratches and the damaging effects of the environment. Our glass protectant will also preserve the clarity of your windshield during rainy or other inclement weather.

*See our page on our Windshield Protection Plan for more details.

Windshield repairs take about 45 minutes or less.

While it’s encouraged to make an appointment for your repair, you can swing by one of our 33 locations to have your windshield repaired. We would suggest calling ahead to let us know you’re coming.

You can expect about a 3- to 4-hour time period for your windshield replacement. Our auto glass technicians work diligently to complete the replacement as quickly and safely as possible. Once completed, there is about a one-hour period to wait for your windshield to cure until it’s safe to drive.

We strongly encourage you to drop off your vehicle for the day, but we’re happy to work with you around your schedule.