Our windshields put up with a lot for us. From high speed air to rocks and other projectiles, windshields are lifesavers. At one point or another it’s quite possible you may sustain a damaged or cracked windshield. When this happens you may ask yourself whether or not replacement is necessary.
The most important thing is to maintain the structural integrity of your windshield. In the event of a roll-over accident your windshield is one of the most important things protecting you. A cracked windshield could spell tragedy in the case of an accident. That’s why it’s important to evaluate how seriously damaged your windshield is and repair or replace it as soon as possible.
What to Consider When Weighing Repair or Replacement
A windshield repair is less costly and time consuming than a total replacement. Depending on the depth, location, and size of the damage, a quick repair can do the job.
There are three main things that dictate whether your windshield should be replaced or repaired:
Size. Chips and nicks that are smaller than a quarter can be fixed easily. Cracked windshields can usually be repaired as long as the crack is under 3 inches long.
Location. Where the damage is is just as important as how big it is. If the damage is sustained low on the passenger side there is less risk. But if a crack or chip occurs within the drivers eye-line it is much more important to get it fixed right away.
Depth. A minor ding from a rock is much less devastating to the structure integrity of a windshield than a large, deep crack. Your windshield is layered. If damage occurs deeper than the first layer it can affect the performance and durability of the entire windshield.
When It’s Definitely Time to Replace
There are four instances in which it is critical to have your windshield replaced.
If:
- The crack is longer than a dollar bill
- The crack extends over the outside edges of the windshield
- Your windshield is make of tempered glass (versus laminated), or
- The damage has impacted past the first layer of glass
Then it is critical that you replace your windshield as soon as possible. All of these situations compromise the integrity of your windshield and can put you and those around you in danger.
According to the Auto Glass Safety Council, windshields provide nearly 45% of the structural integrity of the cabin in a front end collision. Having a strong, reliable windshield can make all the difference.
If you find yourself in a front end collision come to Beetlsmith’s. Our trained technicians are here to serve you and help you get back on the road as soon as possible.
