What Kinds of Windshield Damage Can Be Repaired?

The windshields are the most vulnerable parts of vehicles, and they can be damaged while driving or even when parked. They usually get damaged when driving behind (tailgating) a truck on gravel roads or parked near construction sites.

By being careful, it is possible to avoid such damage. But if it is already damaged, you can either get it repaired by windshield repair experts or replace the windshield. The repair cost of chips and cracks is much lower than replacing the entire windshield.

However, not all kinds of windshield damage are repairable. If you do not know whether your damaged windshield is repairable, read this blog now.

Before we learn about the types of damage that can be repaired, let’s first determine the common types of windshield damage. Here are the common damage types that your windshield can incur:

- Chips: Small, circular, or oval-shaped cracks are chips.

- Cracks: Longer, linear breaks in the windshield are cracks.

- Star Cracks: Cracks with a radial pattern resembling a star.

- Bullseye Cracks: A circular crack that resembles a bull's eye.

- Half-moon: A crack that looks like a crescent moon.

Note: The above-mentioned are the most common types of windshield cracks. If you can’t identify the damage type, please consult a professional windshield repair expert.

Windshield damage impacts your safety and the safety of others on the road. To stay safe on the road, it’s essential to get the chips and cracks repaired. However, not all types of windshield damage are repairable. Many factors influence the repairability of windshield damage, including:

If the chip on your car’s windshield is smaller than a quarter and not in the driver’s direct line of sight, it can be repaired easily. Also, cracks shorter than six inches, not too deep, can often be repaired. However, longer or deeper cracks may require car windshield replacement.

The repairability is also influenced by the location of the damage. For instance, it is better to replace the windshield if the damage (chip or crack) is in the driver’s direct line of sight. Moreover, deep and large damages too close to the windshield edges are more challenging to repair and may require a replacement.

If the windshield has multiple impact points, it might not be feasible to repair the damages as they may weaken the windshield. The weakened windshield might not uphold the impact in a collision, ejecting the driver and co-passenger. So, if the windshield is severely damaged, consider replacing the windshield.

The type of glass your car has will also influence the repairability of your car’s windshield. Most modern vehicles have laminated glass. If your car has the same, there is no need to worry as it is repairable. However, individuals with older models may have to replace the entire windshield due to a crack, chip, or any other type of damage.

Also Read - Expert Tips for Windshield Chip and Crack Repair Success

Windshields are the most vulnerable part of cars, and they can get damaged by pebbles and stones while driving on gravel roads. A damaged windshield can be replaced or repaired by a professional. The latter is an affordable option, and most people prefer it. However, not all windshield damage types are repairable. Only small cracks (less than a quarter) and cracks smaller than six inches are repairable. More information on damages that are repairable is above. If you need in-depth information about whether your damaged windshield can be repaired, contact a professional auto glass shop.