A damaged windshield can occur at any moment. A small rock from the road, loose gravel, or debris from a truck can impact the glass as you are driving. Sometimes the damage is small initially, but this will become a large crack over time. When this occurs, many drivers have one question: should the windshield be fixed or replaced?
The answer to windshield repair vs windshield replacement lies in several things. The size of the damage, the location of the crack, and the type of chip play an important role. In many cases, there is no problem in repairing a small chip quickly. In other instances, the safest option is to replace the entire windshield.
Windshield Repair vs Windshield Replacement
| Situation | Best Option |
| Small chip smaller than a coin | Windshield repair |
| Crack shorter than a few inches | Windshield repair |
| Crack spreading across the glass | Windshield replacement |
| Damage at the edge of the windshield | Windshield replacement |
| Multiple chips or cracks | Windshield replacement |
When Windshield Repair Is Possible
Windshield repair is suitable for small chips and short cracks. These can be fixed with special clear resin by a trained technician. Once the resin hardens, it bonds with the glass and helps to restore the strength.
Repair is normally possible if the chip is smaller than a quarter or if the crack is only a few inches long. The damage should also be away from the edge of the windshield. Chips directly in the driver’s line of sight may not be the best candidates for repair, as they could still hinder visibility.
Common repairable damage consists of small rock chips, bullseye chips, and star-shaped cracks. The repair process is simple. The technician cleans up the damaged area, injects the resin into the chip, and then cures the resin with the help of special light. The repair is typically less than half an hour.
Fixing the damage early is important. A small chip may spread rapidly due to road vibration, heat, or cold weather. Repairing it early often avoids the need for a complete windshield replacement in the future.
When Windshield Replacement Is Needed
At times, damage is too large/has reached too deep for repair. In these cases, windshield replacement is the most suitable solution. Large cracks can weaken the glass and may reduce the safety of the vehicle.
Replacement is typically necessary if the crack is longer than several inches or if damage extends to the edge of the windshield. Multiple chips or cracks may also need to be replaced. If the glass is badly damaged in the driver’s viewing area, changing the windshield helps improve visibility to clear again.
Modern windshields consist of laminated safety glass. This kind of glass contains two layers with a thin plastic layer between them. If the crack runs through both layers of the windshield, its strength is diminished, and the windshield should be replaced.
Why the Windshield Is Important for Safety
Many drivers believe that a windshield only prevents wind and rain. In fact, it plays an important role in vehicle safety. The windshield helps support the vehicle’s roof during a rollover accident. It also assists in the deployment of airbags.
If the glass is weak or badly cracked, it may not give the protection that it should. That is why broken windshields should never be ignored.
If you notice a chip or crack, it is best to get it inspected as soon as possible. A properly repaired car is an expense-saver and helps keep your car safe on the road.
Related Categories: Auto Glass Repair and Replacement, Windshield Repair, Windshield Replacement