Know When It’s Time to Repair or Replace Your Windshield

Have you ever been driving and noticed a crack or chip in your windshield? You may not have even realized it until someone pointed it out. Whether it’s a crack or chip, your windshield will either need to be repaired or replaced depending on the size and location of the damage. If this has happened to you, then don’t worry!

With many different types of auto glass treatments available, there are several factors that need to be considered before making this important decision. Read on to help you understand the severity of the damage you’re facing and how best to fix the problem. Let’s take a look at some signs that indicate when it might be time for either repair or replacement.

In general, the requirements for immediate replacement dictate that if the chip is larger than a quarter or the crack extends to the border of the windshield, it should be replaced immediately. If these requirements for replacement aren’t met but the damage causes your sight to be compromised, as a driver, you are held accountable for any consequences of this if you do nothing.

You might mistake a tiny chip or fissure in your windshield for another vehicle out of the corner of your eye, resulting in an accident. This could have been prevented had you had the proper repairs or replacement performed in a timely manner.

If you travel on the road a lot, you’ve undoubtedly noticed that your windshield has some pitting. Repeated striking of tiny pebbles and gravel can cause tiny pits. When sunlight shines on them directly, you may notice them without difficulty and become distracted. This can be a serious problem since those holes reflect light and degrade your field of vision.

We’ve all seen cars or trucks on the road with missing components that the owner has covered up with duct tape or garbage bags. Yes, windshields are intended to keep out the elements, bugs, and vermin from the interior of your vehicle, but they also contribute structural support by preventing the frame from sagging. This might lead to long-term problems because when you do decide get it replaced, the damage may have already occurred, resulting in irreversible glass alignment problems.

Review your last inspection sticker. Is there a date for renewal approaching? Before then, make sure the fracture or fissure is fixed otherwise it might result in an unsuccessful examination. Not only will you have to pay for a second inspection after you’ve addressed the problem, but you may also get fined if your sticker has expired.

When it comes to windshield damage, the severity of your situation will determine what type of treatment you need. If a crack or chip is in an area that can be repaired with a quick fix, then this may be the way to go for you. However if there are large cracks and chips, or they are on both sides of your windshield or near each other, auto glass experts will likely recommend replacement. No matter which option you choose, when faced with auto glass repair or replacement needs, make sure to do some research before making any decisions so that you know exactly what’s going into getting your car back up and running again!