Even if you’re a safe driver, there’s nothing worse than having a cracked or chipped windscreen. We’ve all been in a situation where a rock has been thrown from the car in front of us, leaving us with a nasty chip in our windscreen and a hefty repair bill. You’re annoyed and frustrated, and now you’ve got to figure out if you need to windscreen crack repair or replace it. Ignoring the problem isn’t going to make it go away. It’s important that the damage is treated as soon as possible, as waiting too long could put your life at risk and others on the road in danger. Here are some things you need to know:
Do You Need To Repair Or Replace Cracked Wind Screen?
Firstly, you’ll want to know if it’s possible to repair your windscreen rather than simply replace it as this may be cheaper. Some things to keep in mind include: Where is your chip or crack located? How big is the crack? How bad is the damage?
Location of Damage
Whether or not your windscreen can be repaired depends on the location of the damage. If the damage is in the driver’s line of sight, it may not be possible to repair it. The process of repairing windscreen damage leaves distortion in the glass, which can obstruct the driver’s field of view. If the damage extends to the outside edges of the glass, it can also cause problems as it reduces the structural strength of the glass. Most windscreen damage can be fixed if it’s done quickly.
Size
Thanks to modern technology, the majority of cracks and chips can actually be repaired. Any chip that’s about 2.5 cm in diameter, about the size of 10 cent coin, and cracks that are 7.5 cm in length can be easily fixed. If the chip has penetrated both the outer layer and the inner layer of the glass, it can’t be fixed. The sooner you get to work on the chip or crack, the better your chances of fixing it. Cracks anywhere from 7.5 cm to 30 cm can be fixed, but anything over 7.5 cm may need to be seen by a specialist as the damage is too advanced.
Severity
Remember that if the damage to your windscreen is severe enough, it may be beyond repair and that replacing your windscreen is your only choice. If you don’t take care of a crack or chip, it can spread and cause leaks and eventually shatter. When in doubt, it’s always best to get advice from a professional to get the best result.
Conclusion
We cannot emphasize enough how important your windscreen is. If your windscreen has chips or cracks, not only does it put you at risk, but it puts others on the road at risk as well. It’s important to always check with your insurance company to see what is covered under your policy as they may cover repairs or replacement of your windscreen at no extra cost or at a reduced cost. Costs can vary depending on the severity of the damage so it’s always best to get a professional’s opinion.