Cars are built for your convenience, comfort, and safety. Each component is designed to play a critical role in the machine’s overall functionality and dependability. The windshield is a primary support for a car’s structure, and it plays a critical role in your safety and your passengers.
A windshield supports up to 45 percent of the structural integrity and is designed to protect passengers from harm in the event of an accident. It not only supports the structure but also provides a clear view of the road ahead.
It’s Just A Tiny Chip — No Big Deal! Right?
At first glance, a crack or chip in your car’s windshield might not be as serious as you think. Usually when a windshield is chipped, cracked, or otherwise damaged, it may not be necessary to replace it entirely. When a car’s windshield is damaged, however, the view is distorted, and the passengers’ safety is heavily jeopardized.
In many cases, an auto glass repair service can restore the appearance of your windshield to almost mint condition. Repairing a damaged windshield is less expensive than replacing it entirely, but this isn’t always the best action to do. So, how do you know if you need windshield repair or windshield replacement?
Before we make a decision, let us first examine the various types of cracks and blemishes that can damage your windshield in order to better understand what service is best for your needs.
Types of Windshield Damages
Star Breaks:
A star break is a crack on the windshield that usually appears in the shape of a starburst. These cracks spread outwards and weaken the windshield if left unattended.
There are times when a windshield suffers multiple cracks as a result of a high impact. Experts and technicians in the auto glass repair industry recommend that you have them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further unnecessary complications.
Bull’s Eye Break:
Another of the most common types of cracks on a windshield is a bull’s eye. It occurs as a result of debris impact. It is small and shaped like a circle.
Half-moon Breaks:
The half moon break bears close resemblance to the bull’s eye break, with the exception that it does not form a complete circle.
Combination Breaks:
It is, as the name implies, a combination. Such cracks are extremely difficult to repair because multiple cracks of varying types occur at the same time. When the windshield is severely damaged, it is preferable to replace it rather than repair it.
Floater Cracks:
This type of crack usually begins in the center of the windshield glass. They spread quickly if not contained.
Stress Cracks:
This crack, as the name implies, usually appears when the windshield has been in use for a long time. They are also known as edge cracks because they usually begin at the edge of the windshield.
These cracks weaken the windshield and make it more prone to other fractures. These cracks can range in length from two to ten inches. In this case, the glass should be replaced rather than repaired.
Chips:
Chips are typically small spots that appear when the windshield is subjected to various weather conditions. For example, it happens during the summer when the air conditioner in the car is turned on full blast.
The temperature disparity between the interior and exterior causes stress on the windshield that can eventually lead into chipping. These cracks should never be ignored because they spread quickly across the windshield.
Long Cracks:
Long cracks are those that are widespread or more than 15 cm long, which are around a dollar bill’s length. Because these cracks are difficult to repair, the entire glass is replaced.
Would Simple Windshield Repair Suffice?
As you might expect, repairing a damaged windshield is often less expensive than replacing it entirely. The ability of an auto glass specialist to repair damage is determined by a number of factors, including the type of blemish, its size, and quantity.
All types of breaks are prone to growing in size and diminished effectiveness and strength of the windshield. For this reason, it’s most advisable to completely replace windshields rather than repair.
Repairing can conceal the issue visually, or hold its growth for a small period of time. But eventually, it will become a mandatory fix. These fixes usually come at the most inopportune time, when you need the vehicle the most.
We advise clients to repair the windshield on their own dictated time schedule, planning for down time, and then moving on from the issue completely. Leaving the windshield as-is can cause stress to owners and eventually cascade into an all out frenzy when it’s a necessary fix.
When Should I Replace My Windshield?
There are some instances where it is obvious that your windshield needs to be replaced. For example, if a truck transporting rebars ahead of you accidentally drops one and it punches a hole in your windshield, you’ll need a new one. Remember that your car’s windshield is its most durable window, made of two layers of glass — this sandwiched layer holds the entire structure together in the event of damage.
Smaller cracks and chips, which are less visible, can sometimes be the cause of a windshield replacement. A simple rule of thumb to follow here is that if your car’s front window has any cracks, it is time to replace it. Whether you replace it right away or wait a few months, the ultimate solution is to get rid of the old one.
As previously mentioned, cracks weaken the windshield’s entire structure. If you have even a minor accident, you run the risk of completely shattering or detaching your windshield, which could injure the people inside.
Windshield Replacement is Crucial To Your Safety
Damage to a windshield, regardless of the type, is serious and should be addressed as soon as possible. Windshields may appear to be a minor safety feature, but they are extremely important. When a windshield is damaged, it loses its ability to withstand the impact of a flying object and can become a serious visual obstruction. In fact, if the facility deems the obstruction to be severe enough, you may fail your car inspection.
Don’t put it off until it’s too late! Anchor Autobody is the place to go if your windshield is damaged. Our team of professionally trained experts will assist you every step of the way and will never recommend a replacement when a repair will suffice. Just look at what Jackie H. has to say:
“…I went in to repair a scuff on the front bumper and replace a windshield on a Dodge Challenger. Alma was my estimator and was so kind, professional and sharp. She gave me a fair estimate and was transparent about the price breakdown. They did not try to overcharge me or upsell me. Customer service was amazing and both jobs were impeccable. They even dropped me off at home and delivered my car (cleaned and vacuumed) to my home upon completion of the services. I received text message updates regarding the job status and estimates, which was just a really nice touch. Anchor also worked with me when I had schedule conflicts and needed to keep the car in the shop for an extra night. It’s the little things, ya know?”
Furthermore, we have years of experience dealing with damaged windshields for a variety of automotive brands, and we also provide our services at your preferred location. Schedule an appointment now among our broad list of services to cater to any of your auto body needs.
