Do you have to replace your windshield if it has only one small chip? What if there are two or three? When does windshield damage cross the line into dangerous or illegal territory?
Car owners should be aware of what’s safe and what isn’t when it comes to auto glass repair. Too often it’s assumed that it’s OK to drive around with a few chips in your windshield, as long as it doesn’t interfere with your view.
Regardless of how it affects visibility, windshield damage of any level is a threat to your safety and should be repaired.
Your Windshield Is Part of Your Vehicle’s Structure
The windshield is a key component in protecting your car’s roof from caving in if you are in a serious accident. It supports the vehicle’s structure. When your windshield is damaged, it’s more susceptible to further cracking.
When Is One Small Chip Too Dangerous?
Even one chip has to be repaired. Otherwise, it can quickly turn into a larger crack the moment you drive on rough gravel or hit a pothole.
Most chips can be repaired, as long as they are smaller than a few inches and they aren’t located in the driver’s line of sight or near the edge of the windshield. You should know that many experts recommend that you replace your windshield once it has three or more cracks or chips, to ensure the continued safety of you and your passengers.
Location Will Determine Repair or Replacement
Talk to a qualified auto glass repair technician before you assume that a repair will do the job. With many windshield chips, it comes down to the location. Since repairing a chip could leave behind a slight imperfection, many technicians with experience will tell car owners to replace the glass if the chip interferes with driver visibility.
Also, if the chip is close to the edge of the windshield, replacement is probably the best bet, since these chips are more likely to turn into cracks that spread to the frame’s edge, weakening the entire windshield.
Trust the Experts at Glasshopper
Time is of the essence when your windshield is damaged. Temperature fluctuations and less-than-favorable driving conditions can make auto glass damage worse.
When is it time to repair or replace your windshield? The experts at Glasshopper Auto Glass have the answer. Call us today to schedule your mobile windshield repair or replacement and we will come to you!