A chipped or cracked windshield isn’t just an annoying, aesthetic matter—it’s a serious safety issue. Even a small crack can eventually get worse and end up compromising a driver’s visibility. Such damage, especially when left addressed, can place you and others on the road at risk. This is why it’s important to fix such issues to avoid exposing your vehicle to further damage.
When it comes to assessing windshield damage, many vehicle owners are unsure how to proceed. Deciding whether to have a small chip or crack repaired or just have the entire windshield replaced isn’t as simple as it seems. Some car owners end up simply having their windshields replaced just to get things over with.
But not every crack means you need a full replacement since a quick repair is enough. Here’s what you need to know next time you go for an auto glass repair in Ontario, CA or your local area and decide whether your windshield needs a quick fix or a full replacement.
Understand What Causes Windshield Damage
Windshields take a beating every day. But while automotive glass is made to be durable, a seemingly minor car accident in a vulnerable spot can easily lead to significant and permanent damage to the windshield.
The most common culprit? Rocks and gravel. They get kicked up by other vehicles and hit your windshield at high speed. This can result in small chips that can appear from even minor impacts. Moreover, driving through construction zones and unpaved roads increases the risk of such damage from happening.
Bigger debris like wood, metal, or ice is worse, as these can hit with enough force to crack the glass or even shatter it. These kinds of impacts usually mean you’ll need a replacement.
Then there’s wear and tear over time. Tiny particles like sand, dust, and road salt can weaken the surface. While it may not cause visible damage right away, they make the glass more likely to crack over time, especially in areas with extreme weather.
When to Get It Repaired
Repairs are quicker, cheaper, and more eco-friendly than replacements, but they’re an option only in certain cases. In the case of small chips, they’re typically repairable if they’re about the size of a quarter or smaller. Cracks, on the other hand, are a little trickier since anything under three inches is still repairable. The location of the chip or crack matters, too. If they’re near the edge of the windshield, repairs often become temporary solutions because the frame of the windshield becomes less stable.
It’s also important to understand that many modern windshields have two layers of glass laminated with a vinyl layer in between. This plastic vinyl holds the glass together, and repairs work best when the damage is limited to the outer layer and the structural integrity is not compromised.
When to Get It Replaced
Sometimes, repairing the windshield isn’t enough. If a chip is larger than a quarter, the subsequent damage has weakened the glass to an extent that’s too much to fix. Cracks over three inches or those with branching patterns (also known as spiderweb cracks) also can’t be repaired since they make the windshield unsafe and impair your view.
Multiple chips or cracks that are close together create weak points in the glass. As such, even the slightest damage can easily compound with any existing cracks and make things worse. In cases like this, it usually means you need a new windshield. Similarly, if the crack goes through both layers of glass, you’ll also need to get a replacement. Your windshield won’t be able to protect you in a crash with this type of damage.
Older cars generally have tempered glass for windshields. Any significant crack or chip means replacement because tempered glass easily shatters into small pieces when hit. Most modern cars have laminated glass, but have your vehicle checked professionally just to be sure.
Finally, any damage in the driver’s direct line of sight usually requires replacement. Even small chips can cause glare or distortion and can make driving dangerous, especially at night or in bright sunlight. Always remember: safety should always come first.
Manage Expectations
Getting a windshield repair generally doesn’t take a long time and usually takes around 30 minutes to an hour. The repair process usually involves having the technician clean the area, inject resin into the chip or crack, and use UV light to cure it. Once the resin hardens, you’re good to go, allowing you to drive right after the repair.
In contrast, replacement takes longer—typically a 1- to 2-hour job. This involves removing the old windshield, cleaning the frame, and applying adhesive. But here’s the catch: you need to let the adhesive cure. That means waiting at least an hour, or sometimes longer, before you can leave with your vehicle. Driving too soon can mess up the installation and make the windshield unsafe.
Act Quickly
Ignoring windshield damage is a bad idea since even small chips turn into big cracks faster than you think. Temperature changes, road vibrations, and even normal driving can make the damage worse. Once a crack spreads, repair might not be an option anymore.
There’s also a legal side to consider. Many states have laws about windshield damage. If a crack or chip obstructs the driver’s view, you could get fined. So, addressing such damages can ensure that you stay compliant with local laws and avoid getting unnecessary tickets.
Another thing to consider is your vehicle insurance. Most policies cover windshield repairs with little or no deductibles on your part, but it’s still best to check your policy to see what’s included. Just take note that replacements might cost more, depending on your coverage, while repairing damage early could save you money.
Avoid DIY Kits
You’ve probably seen DIY windshield repair kits. They’re cheap and easy to find. But are they worth it? While they might work well for things like tiny chips, but for anything more serious, it’s better to leave it to the pros. DIY kits can’t match the quality of professional tools and materials. Plus, if you mess up the repair, it could make the damage worse. Professional repairs aren’t just more effective; they’re safer.
A damaged windshield isn’t something to ignore. Whether it’s a small chip or a big crack, it’s best to take action quickly. Just remember that while repairs are quick and affordable, they’re not always the answer. Sometimes, replacement is the only way to stay safe. When in doubt, you can always talk to your nearest auto glass specialist. They’ll assess the damage and help you decide the best course of action. Don’t wait until the damage gets worse. Your safety—and your wallet—will thank you.
