How to Decide if You Should Repair or Replace Your Car’s Windshield

by | May 14, 2022 | Windshield

When it comes to repairing or replacing your car’s windshield, there are a few factors you need to consider. How badly is the windshield damaged? How much will it cost to repair vs replace? And, most importantly, is the damage dangerous?

In this blog post, we will help you make the decision of whether to repair or replace your car’s windshield.

Let’s begin with the considerations for repairing your windshield:

Mechanic using resin repairing cracked windscreen
Mechanic using resin repairing cracked windscreen

Windshield can be repaired if damage will not reduce the safety of the car in case of accident 

In the event of a car accident, the windshield plays a crucial role in protecting passengers from being ejected from the vehicle. In fact, according to a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, windshields are responsible for preventing an estimated 26% of serious injuries in car accidents. Many windshields are damaged each year by flying debris on the road. While a cracked windshield may seem like a minor problem, it can actually reduce the structural integrity of the glass and make it more likely to break in an accident.

However, windshield damage can often be repaired if it is caught early enough. As long as the damage does not reduce the safety of the car, most insurance companies will cover the cost of repairs. As such, it is important to get your car checked by a professional as soon as you notice any damage. By doing so, you can help ensure that your car remains safe on the road.

Repairing a windshield is cheaper and faster than replacing it

Windshield replacement is a popular option when a windshield becomes cracked or damaged. However, windshield repair is often a cheaper and faster option that can save time and money.

Windshield replacement requires removing the old windshield and installing a new one, which can take several hours. In contrast, windshield repair simply involves filling in the damaged area with a clear resin, which can be completed in a matter of minutes. In addition, windshield repair is often covered by insurance, while windshield replacement may not be. It’s important to weigh your options and make the decision that’s best for you and your budget.

If the chip in your windshield is less than 1 inch wide, you can probably get away with just repairing it

If the chip in your windshield is less than 1 inch wide, you can probably get away with just repairing it. The damage isn’t extensive, so a repair will be less expensive than a replacement. In addition, the repair will be less likely to cause problems with your car’s electronics and sensors. However, if the chip is wider than 1 inch, or if it is located in your line of sight, then you should replace the windshield. A wider chip can quickly turn into a crack, and a crack in your line of sight can make it difficult to see while driving. Replacing the windshield will be more expensive than repairing it, but it will provide you with a clear view of the road.

There are certain situations when a windshield needs to be replaced instead of repaired:

Technician removing old glue while replacing a windshield
Technician removing old glue while replacing a windshield

If the crack in your windshield is more than 6 inches long, or if there are several smaller cracks close together, then it needs to be replaced

If you have ever been driving when a small rock kicked up by a passing car hits your windshield, then you know the feeling of dread that comes with seeing the first crack. However, as long as the crack is less than six inches long, there is no need to worry. These small cracks can be easily repaired with a simple resin kit. However, if the crack is more than six inches long, or if there are several smaller cracks close together, then it needs to be replaced. The reason for this is that the glass is weakened and can break more easily, posing a danger to you and your passengers. In addition, cracks in the windshield can obscure your view and make it more difficult to drive safely. So if you have a cracked windshield, be sure to get it fixed before hitting the road again.

If the crack or chip in a windshield is too deep, it requiers replacement

A laminated windshield is made up of two layers of glass with a thin layer of plastic in between. This type of windshield is usually used in modern vehicles, and it is designed to provide an extra level of safety in the event of a collision. However, laminated windshields can also be susceptible to damage from small rocks and other road debris. If a rock hits the windshield at a high enough speed, it can cause a chip or crack that can penetrate both the outer and inner layer of glass, making replacement necessary. By taking care to avoid road debris, you can help keep your laminated windshield in good condition and avoid the need for costly repairs or replacement.

Windshield can’t be repaired, if the crack or chip extends to the outside edge

When a crack or chip extends to the outside edge of the windshield, it can’t be repaired. The entire glass will need to be replaced. The reason for this is that the structural integrity of the windshield is compromised when the crack or chip goes all the way to the edge. Even if the crack or chip is small, it weakens the entire glass and makes it more likely to break in an accident. Replacing the windshield is the only way to ensure that it will be able to protect occupants in a car crash. While it may be expensive, replacing the windshield is a necessary safety measure.

Driving with a damaged windshield can be dangerous – make sure to fix it as soon as possible!

Perspective view of cracked car windshield from inside vehicle while driving
Perspective view of cracked car windshield from inside vehicle while driving

Driving with a damaged windshield can be dangerous for a number of reasons. First, cracked or chipped windshields can reduce visibility, making it more difficult to see other cars, pedestrians, and potential hazards on the road. Additionally, damaged windshields are more likely to shatter if they are hit by a stone or other object, which can pose a serious safety risk for drivers and passengers. Finally, many states have laws that prohibits driving with a damaged windshield, so you could risk getting pulled over and receiving a ticket if you don’t get it fixed. For all of these reasons, it’s important to make sure your windshield is in good condition before you hit the road. If you do end up with a crack or chip, don’t wait to get it repaired – fix it as soon as possible to stay safe on the road.

There are many different types of windshield repair kits available – choose the one that’s best for you

When it comes to repairing a cracked windshield, there are a lot of options available. You can take your car to a professional auto glass shop, or you can try to fix it yourself with a windshield repair kit. If you’re considering the DIY route, it’s important to choose the right repair kit for the job. There are kits available that use UV light to cure the resin, while others rely on an air-drying process. There are also kits that come with suction cups or suction pads to help keep the area being repaired tight against the windshield, which is important for getting a good seal. Once you’ve chosen the right kit, be sure to follow the instructions carefully so you can get the best results.

Always use caution when working with glass shards

Women wearing safety goggles while working with the glass
Women wearing safety goggles while working with the glass

Shards of glass can be extremely dangerous. They are incredibly sharp and can cause serious cuts. Even small pieces of glass can be deadly if they get into your eyes. That’s why it’s important to use extreme caution when handling them. Always wear gloves and safety glasses when working with glass shards. And, if possible, try to sweep them up with a dustpan or vacuum them up instead of picking them up by hand. If you do need to pick them up, use a piece of cardboard or another safe object to slide under the shard so you don’t have to touch it directly. Finally, dispose of the glass carefully so no one else gets hurt. With a little bit of caution, you can avoid serious injury when dealing with glass shards.

If you’re trying to decide if you should repair or replace your car’s windshield, hopefully this post has helped give you a better idea of what to consider. There are many factors that go into the decision, and it ultimately depends on how bad the damage is and how much it will cost to fix. If you do decide to replace your windshield, Car Glass Canada can help. We have a wide selection of high-quality glass products and our experts can help you find the perfect fit for your vehicle. Contact us today to get a free quote!

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