Your car's windshield does a lot more than protect you from wind, dust, and rain. It is a crucial part of your car's safety system that supports the roof, protects you in an accident, and lets you see the road clearly. But what happens when the windshield gets cracked?
Many people get worried when they see a crack or chip on their windshield. It might happen after a stone hits your glass, during inclement weather, or because of sudden temperature changes. And if the windshield of a car gets damaged, drivers often wonder whether they need to replace the whole glass, or can the crack be repaired?
If your car's windshield has also been damaged, you have to worry about nothing unless the crack is long and deep. Smaller cracks can be repaired without replacing the windshield. Keep reading this blog to learn more about types of windshield damage, when a windshield can be repaired, and when replacement becomes necessary, as it contains vital information on the same.
Types of Windshield Damage
Not all cracks or chips are the same and can be repaired without windshield replacement. Here are some common types of windshield damage:
- Chips: Small spots where a stone or object hits the glass. These spots are usually round and tiny.
- Cracks: Lines that run across the glass are called cracks. They can be short or long.
- Spiderweb Cracks: Cracks that look like a spider's web. They often start from one point and spread out.
- Edge Cracks: Cracks that begin at the edge of the windshield and move inward. Repairing these cracks can be complex.
Pro Tip: If you struggle to identify the type of crack in your windshield, contact a professional immediately. They can help you determine its type and if it can be repaired or warrants windshield replacement in Abbotsford.
When Can a Windshield Be Repaired
Some cracks or chips can be repaired if they meet certain conditions. Here are the conditions in which you can repair the windshield:
- If the chip is smaller than a coin or the crack is shorter than 6 inches, it can be fixed.
- The crack is not in the driver's view or affects the driver's vision in any other way.
- The crack is not at the edge of the windshield. Such cracks can weaken the glass.
- The damage is not deep, or it is only on the top layer of the glass. These damages are easier to repair.
Repairing deeper or longer cracks can be complex. And in such conditions, the driver should consider replacing the windshield to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road.
When Replacement Is Necessary
Windshield repair is not always possible or enough. And in such cases, the windshield must be replaced to keep the occupants and others on the road safe. Here is when you should consider replacing the windshield and should not force the technician to repair it:
- The crack is too long.
- The cracks reach the edge.
- The glass is old or already repaired.
- There are too many cracks or chips.
- The damage is in the driver's line of sight.
Also Read: New Windshield Care
Final Thoughts
Windshield damage is common in areas where there are a lot of gravel roads and parking sites. Most people get worried when their windshield gets chipped or cracked. In most cases, the damage is relatively small and can be repaired easily by a professional or using DIY repair kits. However, repairing the damage becomes impossible if the crack is longer than 6 inches or the chip is bigger than a coin. If you need more information on whether the damage in your windshield can be repaired, contact the best auto glass repair shop without delay.
FAQ's
Q. Is it possible to repair a small crack in my windshield?
Yes, if it's less than 6 inches and not in your line of sight.
Q. How long does a windshield repair take?
Most repairs take 30 to 60 minutes.
Q. Can I drive with a cracked windshield?
No, cracks can spread and weaken the glass, making it unsafe.
Q. Will insurance cover windshield repair or replacement?
Many insurance plans cover it, often with no extra cost for repairs.
