When to Repair or Replace a Damaged Windshield

When your car’s screen gets cracked or chipped, should you repair or replace it? A chip usually leaves a mark caused by debris. The point of impact on the screen may look like a pit, star break, or bulls-eye. On the other hand, cracks form a unique line on the glass that runs in a horizontal or wavy line. To determine whether or not you need to replace your screen, there are three main determining factors: location, size, and depth. Large deep cracks require replacement immediately, whereas small cracks can be repaired. You shall understand when to replace or repair a damaged screen.

1. Depending on the Size

The technology of repairing screens is growing each day. However, the ability to fix large cracks or chips depends on the repair company. Chips that are less than a quarter and 3-inch long cracks are fixed without significant complications. According to the association in charge of Windshield repair, there are limits on the repair sizes based on the intensity of the damage. The limit of a chip is 3 inches, while a crack can go up to 14 inches. Apart from the shop’s capabilities to repair damages, it is also vital to note that the sizes of the chips and cracks are different based on where the damage occurred. Therefore, before you begin the process of fixing your screen, take time and look for an established company that has all the necessary technology to repair successfully. In case the intensity of the crack or damage exceeds the specified limit, you need to consider replacing the screen once and for all.

2. Depth

Depending on how deep the crack or chip has penetrated your glass, you can determine your next move. The car screen has a cover of glass on the outer side, followed by an interlayer of plastic, and a layer of glass on the inside. Once you consult a professional, let them elaborate to you how deep the damage is. If the damage has penetrated to the inner layer of glass, the damage is too intense to be repaired. In such a situation, you have to replace the screen. However, if you are lucky enough and the plastic interlayer guards the inner layer, your shield can be easily repaired.

3. The Location of the Damage

Where the damage is located has an intense effect on the repair of the glass. If the damage stretches to the outermost part of the glass, it means that the essential structure of the screen has been interfered with. Since a windshield offers 60% strength in case the vehicle rolls, the only reasonable solution is to replace it with a new one.

The portion of the glass which is on the driver’s line of sight (The part of the glass where the driver’s wiper is located) should never be replaced. The reason is that once a repair is made, it may lead to distortion when the driver is on the move. Tampering with a driver’s line of sight may lead to dangerous repercussions.

Finally, the moment some sensitive sensors like rains sensors, automatic braking systems, and other systems that assist the driver are damaged, they cannot be repaired. Because these sensors need a clear view to function, even a repair that seems perfect may still lead to malfunctions. Since all these sensors are essential, as a result, it is safer to replace the windshield for such cases.

Conclusion

Safety on the road is paramount. The problem with many drivers is that they believe driving around with a cracked screen is not a major issue. The truth is that doing that causes a significant safety risk. Now that you know when to replace or repair your screen, you can consult a professional so that you understand the intensity of your damage.