5 Damages That Necessitate A New Windshield

Although many windshield cracks and chips can be repaired, there are still some instances when a replacement is the better options. Knowing when to replace is important. 

1. Edge Cracks

Cracks close to the edge of a windshield should always result in a replacement rather than a repair. Close is usually considered within 2 inches of the glass margin. Not only are these cracks more likely to grow and eventually reach the edge, even after a repair, they can also compromise the integrity of the windshield. This means it won't protect you properly in the event of an accident. 

2. Large Chips

Most rock chips are repairable as long as they are smaller than an inch or so in diameter. There is an exception, though. Occasionally a rock will do more than chip the surface layer of the glass. Instead, it will penetrate more deeply and cause a very deep chip to form. These chips can be difficult to repair in a completely invisible manner, so there will be glass distortion at the repair site. This can be a problem if the chip repair will interfere with the driver's view, so a replacement is typically recommended. 

3. Long Cracks

There is a limit to the size of a crack that can be repaired. Usually, any crack over 2 or 3 inches in length is determined to be non-repairable. If you have a small crack, make sure to have it addressed promptly. Otherwise stresses from temperature changes or just driving around may cause the crack to lengthen to the point that only a replacement is possible. 

4. Stress Cracks

Stress cracks are cracks that will keep growing, usually because of their location on a high stress area of the windshield. You can attempt to fill these cracks, but they often reappear along the outer edge of the repaired area. If you have a quick growing crack, it's better to replace the windshield rather than attempt a repair that will likely fail. 

5. Multiple Damages

Multiple cracks and chips often mean repair is the only option. As a general guide, if there are more than three instances of damage, it is probably better to replace rather than chance a repair. Another form of multiple damages is hazing or scratches, such as that caused by windshield wipers or sand blasting in windy areas. These damages affect multiple parts of the window and aren't easily repaired. 

Contact a windshield replacement service in your area if you need a new windshield for your car. 

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