Introduction:

The windshield is a necessary part of a vehicle that protects the driver and passengers from high-speed wind and offers a clear view. No matter whether you are on the road or your vehicle is parked in a parking lot, its windshield can be damaged due to multiple reasons, like a stone, road debris, or weather conditions. There is a need to repair or replace the damaged windshield according to its damage. Before going through the process of windshield replacement or repair, it is a must to know when there is a need to repair or replace it. 

Factors Determining Need for Replacement or Repair of Windshield

Is your vehicle’s windshield damaged? Do you want to repair or replace it? Do you know what the factors are to be considered before repairing or replacing a windshield? If your vehicle’s windshield is damaged, and you don’t know what to do with it. You are at the right place for your guidance. Here are some factors that are explained, which will help you choose the right method for your windshield. Ensure to read this guide before going for windshield repair or replacement. 

The following are some factors that determine the course of windshield repair or replacement:

• Size of the Crack:

The size of the crack is a major factor in determining whether the windshield needs repair or replacement. You should look at the size of the crack first. If the crack or chip size is less than a quarter or 2 inches, you can repair it. It also depends on the type of the crack, like tar, half-moon, and bullseye. If the crack meets these size requirements, you can repair it. But if the crack is larger, it is a must to go for windshield replacement. A windshield repair will take only 30 minutes, and you can go for a ride. 

• Damage Depth:

A windshield is a two-layered glass in which one layer is the outer one and the other is the inner one. Both glasses are bonded by a layer of PVB. Both glass layers can be damaged due to pebbles, heavy road materials, or by parking under a tree. Hail is also a major culprit in causing deep damage to the windshield. If the upper layer is damaged or has a small chip due to pebbles, it is easy to repair it. 

Mostly, the inner layer is not damaged and does not shatter into the vehicle. The outer layer gets more damage and can be shattered. Windshield replacement depends on the nature of the damage your windshield has and how much it penetrated into the glass layers. 

• Location of the Damage:

A crucial factor in determining the repair or replacement need for a windshield is the location of the damage. If a crack is extending to the outer edge of the windshield, it is a must to replace it. Once the edge is cracked, the glass or windshield becomes weak or loose. 

Moreover, if the crack is on the driver’s side and is creating a problem in vision, it becomes necessary to replace the windshield. It will hinder the driver’s view and can create serious problems due to the blazing sun or rain. If you have such a crack in your windshield, you have to replace your windshield. 

• Amount of the Damage:

A windshield with two or fewer cracks can be repaired. If the cracks or chips are large in number, it is a must for you to replace the windshield. Sometimes, vehicle owners ignore minor cracks or delay their repair. Due to blazing sun, rain, or high wind pressure, these minor damages can escalate and spread all over the windshield. Then, there is no option left other than replacement. However, if your car has an accident and the windshield is not broken, it is better to replace the windshield. Because the accident can weaken the windshield and cause it to separate from the frame. Before choosing the windshield repair or replacement process, beto read this guide. 

Conclusion:

To sum up, windshield repair or replacement depends on multiple factors. There is no need to choose any process blindly. Be sure to check the location of the damage, size of the damage, amount of the damage, and depth of the damage. If the damage is not on the driver’s side and also not deep to the inner layer of the glass, you can repair it. If the cracks or chips are large in number and extend to the sides of the windshield, it is a must to replace it. Be sure to read this comprehensive guide for windshield repair or replacement before choosing the process for your vehicle’s damaged windshield. 

Read More:

FAQs:

What size damage on a windshield can be repaired?

If the damage on a windshield is less than 2 inches or a quarter in size, it is easy to repair. 

How do natural elements affect the damaged windshield?

Even if the windshield has minor damage, the natural elements, like rain, high winds, and blazing sun, put pressure on it and weaken it over time. 

What are the causes of windshield damage?

Road debris, hail, and small stones are the main culprits of causing damage to windshields.