Do you know that windshield repair is important for your safety? Your vehicle’s windshield is vital for safety and visibility, but it’s prone to damage from various sources like road debris, extreme weather, or accidents. Whether it’s a small chip or a large crack, addressing windshield damage promptly is crucial to prevent further issues.
At Cherry Glass Works, we specialize in professional windshield repair and windshield replacement services, ensuring your vehicle stays safe and road-ready. Understanding when to repair or replace your windshield depends on the damage’s size, location, and severity, as outlined by Department of Transportation guidelines. This guide will help you make informed decisions to keep your windshield in top condition.
Reasons for Windshield Damage
Do you know what the reasons are for your windshield to get damaged? What kind of damage can it do to your windshield? If you don’t know, no worries. You can get guidance from here, as the main reasons are mentioned below.
The following are some samples of what windshield damage may look like:
Extreme Weather
If your car or truck is parked outside in extreme weather conditions like hail or high winds, it is more susceptible to having high damage. During hail, the windshield gets damaged completely, and there are more chances for holes forming in it. During high winds, some objects, like tree branches, can hit your windshield. It can give minor and sometimes high damage to it.
Accidents and Collisions
Accidents and collisions of vehicles can cause ultimate damages like cracks, holes, or even the shattering of windshields. Mostly, these damages are severe.
Road Debris and Temperature Fluctuations
Road debris, like stones and gravel, can impact your windshield if they are thrown by other vehicles’ tires. It can cause cracks and chips in the windshield. The rock chip repair process can be done to solve this problem. In extreme temperatures or fluctuating conditions, there can be more stress on the windshield that can lead to cracks.
When to Replace or Repair a Windshield?
Have you ever wondered when the need is to repair or replace a windshield? If you don’t have the right guidance about it, no worries. You are at the right place to get assistance.
Here are some points to consider for the repair vs replace windshield:
Repairing a Windshield
Size of the Damage:
According to the Law and Rules by the Department of Transportation, if the windshield damage size is below 51 mm and not intersected by other damages, you can repair it.
Location of the Damage:
As per the Law and Rules provided by the Department of Transportation, if the damage is present at the level below the steering wheel on the driver’s side, it can be repaired. But there will be no more damage intersecting it or nearby it within a diameter of 76 mm.
Type of Damage
If the damage is minor, like just on the surface level, and has no deep penetration into the windshield, it can be repaired.
Replacement of a Windshield
Severity of Damage:
If the damage is more than 51 mm, as per the rules of the Department of Transportation, it is a must to replace the windshield. It should not be repaired.
Location of Damage:
According to the Law and Rules by the Department of Transportation, if the damage is more than 51mm and intersects the viewpoint of the driver and has more damage like cracks and chips in a diameter of 76 mm, it should be replaced rather than repaired.
If the windshield is badly damaged and has deep damage, holes, or cracks that are spread all over the windshield, it must be replaced. There are no chances for repairing such a windshield. For the cracked windshield fix, there is only one option: to replace it.
How to Make the Right Choice: Windshield Should Be Replaced or Repaired
Is your screen damaged for any reason? Are you eager to know whether it should be replaced or repaired? If your windshield is damaged and you don’t know whether to choose between replacing or repairing it, here is the right guide for you.
The following are some steps to account for mobile windshield repair:
Safety implications
If your mobile windshield is damaged and feels more air pressure, there is a greater chance of scattering during high-speed drives. You should get auto glass repair services to replace it. If there is a minor crack or chip, repairing a small windshield crack can be an effective solution.
Insurance for Windshield Repair
Windshield crack repair cost or replacement of the windshield can be reduced if your company covers the windshield damage in its insurance policy. It can be a cost-effective solution to deal with the problem.
Location and Size of the Damage
Before repairing or replacing a damaged windshield, be sure to read the Laws and Rules provided by the Department of Transportation. If the damage is minor and you come up with safety measures, laws, and rules, you can repair it. Otherwise, it is a must to replace the windshield.
Conclusion
To sum up, windshield damage is the ultimate factor to decide whether it should be repaired or replaced. The windshield can be damaged on the road or in a parking slot by multiple factors. If the damage is minor or in chip, it can be repaired. But if it is large and doesn’t fulfill the glass repair safety rules provided by the Department of Transportation, it is a must to replace it. Ensure to have a proper inspection before getting services for repair or replacement.
FAQs
1: Is there any DIY windshield repair kit available?
Yes, a DIY windshield repair kit is available with resin, a repair device, and curing strips to stop the cracks from spreading all over the windshield.
2: Can I get services for a windshield replacement near me?
Yes, you can get services for the windshield replacement in your area by visiting the workshop.
3: How long does windshield repair take?
The windshield repair cost depends on the nature of the damage to it. If there is a chip on it, it will require minimal time to repair.
4: What is the difference between OEM vs aftermarket windshields?
OEM windshields are manufactured and outsourced by the actual manufacturing company of the car or truck, and aftermarket windshields are produced by independent companies.
5: What is a rock chip?
A rock chip is a minor damage to the windscreen caused by a small rock. A vehicle can get this damage on the road or in high winds.
