Your windshield is on your vehicle’s first line of defense for debris, adverse weather conditions, and other hazards. As such, windshields are quite often damaged and are among the leading reasons for car insurance claims.
However, sometimes a damaged windshield can be repaired, while other times it requires a full replacement. So how do you know when a windshield can simply be fixed and when a replacement is necessary? Read on to learn more.
When a Windshield Replacement is Necessary
Below are a few instances in which a damaged windshield may be beyond the point of basic car window repair and a replacement might be necessary.
When the Glass is Tempered
Tempered glass is much stronger than regular glass and is often used for car windows and windshields. However, when tempered glass does break, it tends to shatter into tiny pieces, necessitating a windshield replacement.
Some windshields are made of laminated glass. While not as strong as tempered glass, laminated glass tends to stick together when it breaks and can often be repaired.
When a Crack or Chip is Too Large
Cracks that are shorter than the length of a dollar bill can typically be repaired, along with chips that are smaller than a quarter. But any damage larger than those parameters has likely jeopardized the integrity of the windshield and a replacement is usually necessary.
It’s advised to repair cracks and chips early, as hot temperatures can cause cracks or chips to expand in size and turn a fixable windshield into one that needs replacing.
When There Are Too Many Cracks or Chips
A single crack or chip on a windshield can usually be fixed. But, if you have three or more separate cracks or chips on your windshield, it may be time for a replacement. A windshield can only take so much damage before it loses its ability to withstand future impacts.
Hail is a common culprit among windshields with multiple chips and is a big reason for auto glass replacement or repair.
When the Damage is Near an Edge
Damage that occurs near the edge of a windshield often compromises the overall integrity of the glass and may not be safe to repair.
The Damage Runs Too Deep
Windshields are made of two layers of glass. Cracks or chips that only penetrate the outer layer of glass have a higher chance of being repaired than ones that penetrate both layers.
Schedule Your Windshield Repair or Replacement
Whether your windshield needs to be replaced or can be repaired, our auto body repair shop in Madison, WI can help. Schedule your appointment today for auto glass repair or replacement or contact us with any questions about your windshield. Our team of expert technicians will work tirelessly to get your vehicle looking like new again.
Connect with us
