Should You Repair or Replace Your Cracked Windshield?

Written by: Wrecktify

Your Windshield Can be Fixed if:

Repair Won't Reduce Safety

The Crack is Shorter than 12 Inches

Is the crack shorter than a foot in length? Is the point of impact less than 1 inch? Then repair is likely.

Only the Outer Layer is Damaged

Windshields consist of a few different layers of glass. If it's determined that only the outermost layer of the windshield is impacted, then repair is possible.

The Damage is Not Near the Margin of the Glass

Where the damage is will also depend on whether repair or replacement occurs. If it's not near the margin of the glass, repair is possible.

Your Windshield Needs to be Replaced if:

Visibility is Impaired

If driver visibility is a major issue, then the windshield should be replaced and not repaired.

The Crack is Longer than 12 Inches

Windshield cracks shorter than a foot can likely be repaired. Anything over a foot in length should be replaced. This is also the case when the point of collision is 3 inches or greater.

The Inner Layer of Glass is Damaged

If more than the outermost layer of glass is damaged, then repair is likely necessary.

Damage is Near the Edges of the Windshield

Damage that occurs near the edges is more likely to spread throughout the rest of the windshield, impacting visibility and structural integrity.

Factors to Consider

Not sure whether to repair or replace your windshield? Here are some additional factors to take into consideration:

Safety

Safety is the No. 1 factor you should take into consideration versus windshield repair or replacement. Please keep in mind the above guidelines for whether it's best to repair or replace the windshield. Some of the factors related to safety to keep in mind include:

Visibility

Damaged windshields can reduce visibility.

Dimensions

There are limitations to the extent of damage that can be fixed to a windshield.

Depth

How deep is the crack or chip? If it extends beyond the outer layer of the glass, replacement should occur.

Position

Location also matters when it comes to windshield damage. Any damage near the frame is likely due for replacement.

Will Insurance Cover Your Windshield?

It's possible. It depends on your insurance policy and what your deductible is. If your deductible is lower than the cost of replacement or repair, it may make sense to file a claim.

Damaged Windshield? We've Got it Covered!

Contact Wrecktify Collision today for more information on windshield repair vs replacement and other auto body damage repair.