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Which is better?

Windshield repair or replacement?

When your windshield sustains damage, you’ll want to fix it as soon as possible in order to safely drive your vehicle without having to worry about impaired sight and dangerous glass shards. However, based on the specific type and extent of the damage, you might want to simply repair the damage instead of replacing the windshield entirely—or vice versa. Let’s look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of windshield repair and replacement and examine which situations each method might be best for.

The most obvious sign of whether you should repair or replace your windshield is the visual aspect. If the crack or shattered portion of your window is large enough that the damage impairs the driver’s vision, then you’ll need to replace the windshield to ensure the driver’s safety. However, if the windshield’s crack or chip is minor enough that it doesn’t impair vision, then you’re better off simply repairing it instead of spending the money to replace the entire windshield.

Another factor that will help you decide between windshield repair and replacement is the status of the interior pane of glass. Most windshields are comprised of two layers of glass—if only the outer layer is cracked, then there’s no danger to the driver, and a simple repair will suffice. However, if the inner layer has been damaged, then it poses a significant risk to the driver, and you should replace the windshield.

The positioning of the crack also plays a part when you’re deciding between car window repair and replacement. If the damage reaches an edge or corner of the glass, then you should replace the windshield. Cracks near the edges are especially susceptible to vibrations and bumps, which greatly increase the chance of the windshield’s damage becoming worse. However, if the cracks aren’t on the edge of the windscreen, then a simple repair is all that’s needed.

Determining the right choice between windshield repair and replacement is important for ensuring the safety of the drivers and passengers. Hopefully, this guide helps you identify whether you need to replace or repair your damaged windshield.

How did this happen?

What causes windshield cracks?

As unfortunate as they are, windshield cracks are bound to happen, even if you do take special care to avoid damaging your car’s windshield, cracks and chips can still occur. What can cause a windshield to crack in these kinds of situations, where an obvious answer doesn’t seem to exist? Follow along as Rock Chip Squad examines some of the most common examples of what causes windshield cracks.

Glass Imperfections – One of the most unfortunate contributors to cracked windshields is improper construction. Some windshields simply come out of the production line with structural weaknesses already in them, which means they could shatter at any time during regular use. The same could also be true if the windshield was installed improperly. A misaligned windshield or window can be more susceptible to cracks and breaks.

Pressure Changes – Pressure changes and fluctuations can cause your windshield to experience extra stress, making it much more susceptible to cracks and breaks.

Gravel Roads – By far one of the most common causes of a shattered windshield is kicked-up gravel. Small pebbles and road debris get kicked up toward your windshield at high speeds, and if they hit at the wrong point or angle, your windshield could very quickly end up looking like a spiderweb of glass.

Construction Vehicles – Following a construction vehicle puts your windshield at extra risk of shattering due to small stones and debris. This usually occurs when you drive too close to these types of vehicles. By leaving extra space between your car and construction vehicles, you stay safer and keep your spending on windshield replacements down.

Hail and Other Debris – Hail is one of the most common examples of what causes windshield cracks, especially in vehicles that are kept outside. Everyone has heard stories about abnormally large hail damaging vehicles, and they’re no joke. It’s generally a good idea to keep your vehicle inside a garage or storage unit or underneath some sort of outdoor shelter, which can prevent damage to your car.