Determining Whether Your Damaged Windshield Can Be Repaired
by Clifford Patterson
If you have ever had a cracked or chipped windshield, you've probably had someone tell you that you need to have your windshield fixed before the damage gets worse. However, you may not know just how big windshield cracks and chips can be before they are deemed unfixable. Learn how the size, type, and location of the damage determines whether a windshield can be repaired or it needs to be replaced.
Size of the Damage
Unfortunately, when cracks or chips in your windshield are too big, they typically can't be repaired safely. So if the windshield damage is sizable, there's a good chance that your windshield will have to be replaced. In most cases, windshield repair shops and mobile windshield repair services can repair windshield chips if they are smaller than the size of a quarter. Additionally, cracked windshields can typically be repaired if they are 12 inches long or less. However, windshield cracks that's more than three inches long has to be evaluated by a professional before it's repaired because the crack's depth also needs to be considered.
Location of the Damage
If a crack or a chip is located directly in the driver's line of vision, there's a good chance the windshield will have to be completely replaced. Unfortunately, when glass is repaired, it often leaves the glass slightly discolored or foggy. Because of this, windshield repair professionals often recommend that windshields with cracks or chips that sit along your line of vision be replaced so that your vision isn't impaired at all.
Chips and cracks that sit along the edge of your windshield may not be able to be repaired — if the damage is located in a spot that could damage the bond between the windshield and the car's frame. Additionally, windshield chips and cracks that are on the inside of the car or over the car's internal radio antenna or rain sensor often can't be fixed.
Type of Damage
Tiny chips and cracks can usually be repaired as long as they aren't located in a problem area. However, more complex types of damage, such as cracks that veer off in several different directions or chips that resemble large spider webs, usually can't be repaired safely.
Keep in mind your car's windshield is important. During an accident, it's your first line of defense. So it's extremely important that any windshield chips or cracks are repaired properly. If your windshield damage is able to be repaired, you should consider contacting a mobile auto glass repair service as soon as possible.
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About Me
When my windshield was broken due to a falling rock at work, I knew that I had to get it replaced immediately. I didn't want to risk getting a ticket on my way home, so I called a mobile repair service to find out what I could do. When they sent someone out right away, I was surprised. I couldn't believe they could do the work right there in the parking lot. I had to understand how all of it worked, and then I wanted to bring that knowledge to others. The next time your windshield breaks, I hope that the information here helps you to see that you don't need to drop your car off for repairs — there are companies that can come directly to you!