There’s nothing more frustrating than approaching your car and noticing a cracked windshield. It wasn’t there earlier, what happened? A cracked windshield seemingly occurs unexpectedly, and the size of the damage is correlated with the amount of the cost. Your vehicle’s windshield is one of the most crucial safety devices in your car. Its primary function is to protect you and your passengers from the elements and dangerous rocks and debris. Your windshield also provides up to 60% of structural support to your vehicle. One small chip on your windshield can spread into a long crack across the entire length of the surface. Small chips can be fixed pretty quickly, but long cracks always require a complete windshield replacement.
A cracked windshield can leave you walking away with a fix-it ticket on top of a costly bill in most states. A damaged windshield is hazardous because it can obstruct your view, leading to a significant accident. A broken windshield should always be prioritized, and if you need advice from a trusted expert facility, we can offer our opinion and possibly recommendations on places to get a fix.
Small Windshield Chips:
A windshield chip that’s smaller than a quarter that cracks up to three inches long can be repaired easily. These cracks can be inexpensive and quick to repair. However, a small chip can quickly turn into a large crack. This makes it critical to repair your windshield as soon as you notice a small chip. An inspection by a technician will help determine if your windshield can be fixed based on the size, depth, and location of the damage. Large, deep cracks in the windshield that extend to the glass edges will need immediate replacement. Smaller chips that are shallower won’t need a major replacement service.
Large Windshield Cracks & Replacements:
Your safety is the main priority. If you notice a large crack in your windshield, have it evaluated immediately to maintain your safety. You may need a full windshield replacement if:
• The break is longer than the length of a dollar bill
• The crack is so deep that it breaks more than halfway into the depth of the windshield.
• The chip extends to the outside edge of your windshield.
Normal wear and weather fluctuations can make chips and cracks worse over time. A chip is a simple fix, but a windshield crack can diminish visibility and compromise your safety. Make sure to have a trusted, reputable repair shop inspect your windshield. They’ll be able to advise if it can be repaired or whether it needs replacement.