Do you have a chipped or cracked windshield? Windshield repair vs. replacement depends on a number of different factors. The most important are safety and visibility. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA), states that the windshield acts to strengthen the structural aspect of many vehicles. That alone is a good reason to have a cracked or chipped windshield repaired right away. Read more of this month’s blog post to learn about how a windshield is repaired and the importance of having it taken care of right away.
You’re driving along and suddenly a rock or some other debris hits your windshield causing damage. When the damage is just at the point where the debris hit, it’s considered a chip. On the other hand, the type of crack can be identified by its characteristics – star break (there’s a chip in the center and short cracks form outward from there), a bulls-eye (think of a target with circular rings emanating from the center), a partial bulls-eye (it has a crescent shape to it), crack chip (usually less than an inch in length), or a pit (a piece of the windshield is gouged out). A crack (or cracks) create a distinct line in the glass and can run the entire length of your windshield.
The good news is that many small chips and cracks can be repaired. The key is to have the windshield repair done before it becomes a bigger problem that will then require windshield replacement. A small chip can spread across the windshield. This might happen in the winter when you heat up the windshield with the defroster or if you hit a big pothole. You can certainly repair a windshield on your own, but given the fact that safety and visibility are at risk, we recommend you bring your vehicle to a professional, like those at Luke’s Auto Service in Verona, New Jersey. We will be able to assess the damage to the windshield and will let you know if it can be repaired or should be replaced. If windshield replacement is required, we can give you a referral.
Factors that Determine if the Windshield can be Repaired
- The size of the chip or crack – The smaller the chip or crack, the more likely it can be repaired. This typically applies to chips that are smaller in size than a quarter and cracks that are around 3 inches long. In some cases, cracks longer than 3 inches can be repaired, but care must be taken.
- The depth of the chip or crack – Your windshield has an outer and inner layer of glass that sandwiches an inner layer of plastic. A good thing, too. All those layers protect the windshield from completely shattering when something hits it. If the chip or crack goes completely through to the inner layer of glass, the windshield should be replaced.
- The location of the chip or crack – Where the chip or crack is located plays a major role in safety and visibility. If the windshield is damaged on the outer edge of the glass, the structural integrity of the windshield may be compromised. The windshield should be replaced. Likewise, if the damage is immediately in front of your line of sight when driving, replace the windshield.
Need windshield repair? Not sure if you should replace or repair? Schedule an appointment in our auto repair shop located in Verona, NJ.