The truck in front of you kicks up a stone from the tire, chipping your windshield. The oak tree in your backyard drops a large acorn on your car, chipping and cracking your windshield. Your son hits the windshield with a toy and a small chip appears. Your first thought may be that you will have to replace your windshield when these types of things happen, but it is possible you can repair the windshield and have it looking like new quickly. These tips can help you know if you need a full windshield replacement or you can simply have it repaired.
How Large is the Damage?
One of the biggest factors used in determining whether a windshield needs to be replaced or can be repaired is the size of the chip or crack. Although each case should be considered individually, the common theory is that if the chip or crack is less than the size of a dollar, you may be able to repair it. If it is larger than that, chances are you will need to replace your windshield.
Location of the Damage
Where the chip or crack is can also have an impact on whether you can repair it. If the chip is directly in front of the steering wheel, in the driver’s line of sight, repairing it could leave a discoloration or spot on the windshield which could be distracting or impair the driver’s vision. If the damage is in a corner, the windshield must be replaced as a corner crack makes the windshield unstable. This means it could shatter at any time.
How Much Damage is There?
If you have just one small chip or crack, it is possible that a repair will resolve the problem. However, if you have several chips or cracks in your windshield, you will probably need a full replacement. Any more than three damaged areas indicates that the windshield needs replacing. Even if those cracks are minor, damage in several places indicates that the integrity of the windshield is damaged. Because your windshield is also part of the support system for the roof, a windshield that has minimized integrity can present a significant danger.
If you have a crack or chip in your windshield, contact us today by calling or filling out the simple form online to arrange for a no obligation inspection.