Windshield Damage: Repair or Replace?

Rock chips can cause your heart to skip a beat when they happen. The loud clanking sound of the rock hitting the windshield sounds more like the shattering glass than the actual result, which is usually a pretty small glass chip. Depending on the type of damage your windshield suffered you may no longer be able to safely see out of it. However, many times a windshield can be repaired, saving money over a complete replacement. So does the damage your car suffered warrant windshield replacement or repair? It depends on size and locations of the problem area.

Where is the windshield cracked?

When a windshield is repaired it may leave minor waves in the glass that could be a distraction to a driver if it happens to be in their direct sight line. This means if a chip directly in front of the steering wheel it is probably best to replace the windshield. Cracking that occurs around the rim of the windshield will also mean you're likely going to need to replace it as damage in this area can spread quickly and it could compromise the structural integrity of the glass. However, chips out of the direct vision field are usually fixable, but it also depends on their size.

How big is the windshield crack?

The other determining factor is the size of the damage suffered by the glass. In terms of size, most cracks up to three inches long and chips up to the size of a quarter or so can be repaired. Cracks any longer than that will likely mean you need a full replacement windshield. However, some advanced glass repair technologies allow cracks up to 12 inches long to be fixed!

Regardless of the size or location of the damage to the windshield it is important to have it taken care of by by a professional auto glass company. And don't worry about having to drive a vehicle with damaged glass in Oregon, as Superior Auto Glass in Bend will come to you! We provide windshield repair in Bend and the surrounding community. We can replace all types of auto glass, so don't hesitate giving us a call at (541) 593-3533 for all your needs regarding expert auto glass repair in Bend.

Superior Auto Glass Blog

Written and Published By MORBiZ