A chipped or cracked windshield isn’t just ugly, it’s a safety hazard. Minor chips and cracks can quickly escalate into major damage and compromise the strength of your windshield in a crash. Taking quick action on chips and cracks, including timely windshield repair, can prevent further damage, but how do you know if you need a repair or full windshield replacement?
Understanding the difference between windshield repair and replacement is crucial for vehicle safety.
Here’s how the Glass Source experts help our customers determine if a repair or replacement is the best option for their vehicle.
When to Choose Mobile Windshield Repair
Often, Glass Source is able to repair your windshield, the ideal solution for minor windshield damage. Our mobile windshield repair service is convenient and cost-effective. Here is a closer look at what damage we can repair on your windshield.
Small Chips and Cracks
Generally, if a chip is smaller than a quarter, our mobile team may be able to repair your windshield rather than replace it. We use a resin to seal minor chips and cracks and prevent them from spreading. The resin also protects the integrity of your windshield, keeping it strong in the event of a crash.
Damage That Doesn’t Obstruct the Driver’s View
If a minor chip or crack isn’t in the direct line of the driver’s vision, we may be able to repair it. Repairs can leave minor visual distortions, so we recommend windshield replacements for chips and cracks in the driver’s line of vision, no matter their size.
Damage Away from the Edge of the Windshield
Even small chips and cracks that appear near the edge of the windshield can weaken the overall structure of the windshield. While we recommend replacement in these cases, if the damage is located away from the edges and is small enough, we may be able to simply repair it.
The Windshield’s Structural Integrity Is Still Intact
If the damage is only surface-level and has not compromised the strength of your windshield, a repair may be in order. However, if your windshield has multiple cracks or deep chips, we will likely recommend replacement as the safer option.
When to Choose Windshield Replacement
If your windshield has a major crack or chip, a full replacement is likely necessary. Here’s what the Glass Source team looks for when recommending a windshield replacement
Cracks Longer Than An Inch
Large cracks weaken the structural integrity of your windshield and require a full replacement. They are also more likely to spread over time. If you have a crack that extends across your entire windshield, it is time to replace it to ensure your and your family’s safety.
Damage in the Driver’s Line of Sight
As we mentioned above, damage to your windshield that is in the direct line of vision of the driver often requires full windshield replacement. Cracks and chips can distort vision, as can repairs. Full replacement ensures the driver has clear visibility.
Damage at the Edge of the Windshield
If the chips or cracks appear at the edge of your windshield, it’s likely we will recommend a full replacement. Cracks or chips near the edges compromise the windshield’s ability to withstand impacts during a crash, so replacing your windshield is the safest choice.
Multiple Chips or Spiderweb Cracks
Multiple points of damage, including several chips or a spiderweb cracks that extend across your windshield, are reasons to choose full replacement. Multiple points of damage can be difficult to repair while maintaining the integrity of your windshield.
Pitting and Wear Over Time
Even if your windshield is free of chips and cracks, it can develop little pits over time as small road debris and weather bombard it daily. If this type of damage is widespread on your windshield, it is time to replace it.
Ignoring even the smallest chip or crack can have big consequences. The Glass Source mobile windshield repair team is here to help you stay safe on the road. Request mobile glass repair today.
