This is a question that we are asked almost daily. Repairing a chipped or cracked windshield is much less expensive than a replacement so we always try to repair if possible. Some auto glass repairs are more complicated than others so the time it takes to complete the process can vary from vehicle to vehicle.
Repair:
- Bull’s-eye: The most common type of auto glass damage is the bull’s-eye. It is round in shape and usually the result of a straight single impact. While it looks like bad, it is one of the easiest types of chips to repair.
- Half-moon: These chips are similar to bull’s-eye but be a bit more difficult to repair. The key is to get it to the auto glass shop before it spreads, as any damage larger than a quarter will probably need to be replaced.
- Star break: Any small bunch of cracks centered on a single impact point would be considered a star break.
- Combination: The most complicated repairs are chips that have features of the previous types of damage.
Replace:
- Cracks in the inner layer or both layers: If the crack goes down deep into your windshield, both on the outside and the inside, then the window should be replaced, as the structure of the glass has been compromised.
- In the driver’s line of sight: Any big cracks near the driver’s side of the windshield should not be repaired. A repair within the driver’s field of vision could be warped and not clear enough to allow for proper vision.
- Multiple Cracks: A windshield with multiple cracks severely compromises the integrity of the glass and should be replaced immediately. This level of damage my interfere with proper airbag deployment in the event of an accident.
When you are in need of a windshield repair or replacement, contact DeDona Auto Glass in Greensboro, NC. We are the area’s premier auto glass shop, convenient to High Point, Winston Salem, Kernersville and the surrounding communities.
