You understand how expansion and compression works, as well as why it’s so hazardous when it comes to chipped automobile glass or a fractured one. It is illegal to drive a car with a windshield that restricts drivers’ vision on the road in the state of California. As a result, you must not only save your life by repairing the damage but also avoid receiving a legal citation from law enforcement!
But, how can you tell whether it needs to be fixed or replaced? You don’t have to worry about it because we’re here to help. Here’s how to know if your automobile requires a new windshield or repair.
Cracks and chips
The first thing you should do is check for cracks and chips. In the case of a crack, if it’s longer than 3 inches or in the driver’s line of sight, then you will need a replacement. A chip, on the other hand, can be repaired if it’s smaller than a quarter.
Location of the damage
The next thing you need to consider is the location of the damage. If the crack or chip is in the driver’s line of sight or near the edge of the windshield, then it needs to be replaced. However, if the damage is not in either of these areas, then it can be repaired.
extent of damage
Last but not least, you need to consider the extent of the damage. If the crack or chip is extensive, then it will need to be replaced. Extensive damage includes multiple cracks and chips, as well as cracks that are longer than 3 inches. But if the damage is minimal, then it can be repaired.
So, there you have it! These are the things you need to consider in order to know whether you need windshield replacement or repair. If you’re still unsure, then it’s best to consult with a professional. They will be able to assess the damage and give you the best course of action.
Signs Your Auto Glass Just Needs a Repair
Asking yourself the following questions will help you determine the extent of windshield damage and what solution you should opt for.
1. How big is the chip or crack?
If the chip or crack is smaller than a quarter, then it can be repaired.
2. Where is the damage located?
If the damage is in the driver’s line of sight or near the edge of the windshield, then it needs to be replaced. However, if the damage is not in either of these areas, then it can be repaired.
3. How many chips or cracks are there?
If there are multiple chips or cracks, as well as cracks that are longer than 3 inches, then the windshield will need to be replaced. But if the damage is minimal, then it can be repaired.
4. Is the glass severely damaged?
If the glass is severely damaged, then it will need to be replaced. The severely damaged glass includes cracks that are longer than 3 inches or in the driver’s line of sight.
5. Will the damage obstruct my view while driving?
If the damage will obstruct your view while driving, then it needs to be replaced.
6. Can the damage be repaired easily?
If the answer is no, then you will need a replacement.
If your answer was yes to any of the above, you can breathe a sigh of relief, book a windshield inspection and have experts come to your home or office to repair your auto glass.
These questions will help you determine whether you need a windshield replacement or just a repair. If you’re still unsure, it’s best to consult with a professional to get an expert opinion.\
Is the crack in your glass less than 14 inches long and does it not obstruct the driver’s vision? Is the chip shape more akin to a crescent, an inch or smaller in diameter? Or is it more like a star and no greater than 3 inches in diameter? Does it fall short of shattering the safety glass repair and is less than 1/8th of an inch thick? Alternatively, do you have damage that is made up of many smaller chips or cracks that don’t exceed two inches in diameter?
At the end of the day, it’s best to consult with a professional to get an expert opinion on whether you need a windshield replacement or just a repair.
Signs You Need To Get In Touch With an Auto Glass Replacement Service
However, if you see any of the following signs, it’s time to bring in the specialists. discoloration in the safety layer is visible; you can observe tangible discoloration in the underlying layer.
- The chip has a pit size more than 3/8th-inch,
- Three or more cracks stem from a single source, and are more than 6 inches long,
- And the damage lies in the inner layer of the glass rather than the outside one. These are all clear signs that you need an auto glass replacement and not just a repair. So, don’t delay and call in the experts as soon as possible! Auto Glass Damage: Should You Repair or Replace? Windshield damage is one of those things that can happen out of nowhere. A small stone flying up from the road can cause a crack or chip in your windshield. And once that happens, you’re left with two choices: windshield replacement or repair. But how do you know which one to choose? That’s what we’re here to help you with! In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to consider to decide whether
***
If that’s the case, you should go to your local, reputable auto glass repair company as soon as possible and have it fixed. After you’ve had your car’s glass replaced, there isn’t much you can do except take a few precautions. We recommend that you inquire about how to maintain a new windshield from your automobile glass service provider.
One thing is for sure, if you have a big crack or chip in your windshield, it needs to be fixed asap. Depending on the severity of the damage, you may need a full windshield replacement or just a quick repair.