When to Repair & When to Replace Windshield – Analyzing Cracks
Apart from offering your protection from the dirt, debris, and the wind as you drive on a hot summer afternoon, windshields also give you aerodynamic stability for your vehicle and improve the frame’s strength. So, a cracked windshield should be repaired or replaced immediately.
Here is a quick overview of how you can decide whether you need to get your windshield repaired or replaced when a crack appears.
Bull’s Eye Cracks
These are rather nasty cracks that look like small bullet holes. If they are just chips, they can be repaired. However, if they go through the windshield, you may have to get it replaced.
Stress Cracks
Stress cracks usually start as a long, straight crack that isn’t very deep – especially if it’s just because of temperature differences. However, if you wait long enough or drive into a pothole, the glass will break further and, therefore, require a replacement. A stress crack is a type of internal crack that is usually caused by sudden temperature changes. For example, if a car buried in snow is washed with hot water, the sudden temperature change can cause a stress crack on a windshield.
Star Cracks
As the name suggests, these star-shaped cracks and can be quickly repaired if catered to quickly.
Edge Cracks
These cracks also need to be repaired quickly because they tend to spread quickly. As long as there is just one edge crack, you can get it repaired. If you see branches emanating from it, you may need to get it replaced.
Other Considerations
Some other factors that you need to keep in mind include;
- The size of the crack. Cracks less than the size of a dollar bill can usually be repaired.
- If the damage can be felt on the inside of the windshield, the glass needs to be replaced.
- Single cracks can be repaired but multiple cracks may warrant windshield replacement.
If you are looking for professional consultation on whether you need windshield repair or replacement, you are at the right place. Give us a call and let us help!
