Have you ever had a crack in your windshield and wondered whether it would be better to get the windshield repaired or replaced? You’re not alone. Many people don’t know what their best option is, and they end up making a choice that they regret later on.
Fortunately, there are many things you can do to avoid this mistake. Read on for some helpful information about the difference between windshield repair vs replacement, along with advice for choosing which option is right for you.
What’s the Best Way to Fix My Windshield?
Windshield damage can be caused by a wide variety of factors. Even something as small as a rock can create a large crack that needs to be repaired or replaced. However, there are ways to avoid the problem altogether – for example, you can install windshield shields on your vehicle to protect against flying rocks and debris.
Windshield replacement is the most common way to fix your windshield, so it’s widely considered the best choice. Repairing your windshield is also possible, however. It can be done in certain situations where replacement isn’t possible and it’s typically less expensive than replacing the entire windshield itself.
Windshield Repair vs Replacement: How to decide on windshield service?
There are a few questions you can ask yourself to determine which service your windshield needs:
- How big is the crack? Cracks and chips that run more than halfway across the width or length of your windshield will need to be replaced. Cracks smaller than this should be repaired. However, if there are multiple cracks, even those that are small, it’s best to replace the windshield.
- Does the crack obstruct my view? If your view is obstructed by a crack, then you will need to have it repaired or replaced.
- Is the damage on the driver’s side or the passenger’s side? If the damage is on the driver’s side, it needs to be repaired or replaced. If it’s on the passenger’s side, you have a choice – you can either repair or replace it.
- Can the crack be repaired? Not all cracks can be repaired. If the damage is too severe, then a replacement will be your only option.
Signs a Windshield Can Be Repaired:
Your windshield can be repaired if it has:
- Less than a foot-long crack
- No defects such as bull’s eyes, starbursts, and pitting A glass-air interface of less than one and a half inches and two and a half inches for metallic and nonmetallic windshields.
- A clear and solid bond between the layers of glass A sharp edge and good contact with the auto body
- Doesn’t have an electronic damage indicator (EDI) The EDI is a tiny chip usually near the windshield. If you see this, don’t try to repair your windshield because it indicates that there are other problems with it.
Repairs are often less expensive than replacements, and they can take less time to complete. However, if the crack is too large or if it obstructs your view, a replacement will be required.
When Is a Windshield Replacement More Beneficial?
A windshield replacement is typically more beneficial when:
- The damage is too large to be repaired
- The crack obstructs the driver’s view
- The damage is on the driver’s side
- The car is old and needs other repairs
Replacing the windshield may be a better option if your car is older and you need other repairs done as well. The cost of the replacement may be lower than the cost of repairing all the other damage on your car.
How Much Does Windshield Repair Cost?
The cost of windshield repair will vary depending on the size and location of the crack. However, it’s typically less expensive than a full replacement.
How Much Does a Replacement Cost?
Windshield replacement costs vary depending on your vehicle and the company you choose. A simple replacement typically costs less than $250, while a full windshield replacement can cost as much as $500 or more.
Factors Relating to Windshield Repairs and Replacements
Your vehicle and the company you choose will both contribute to how much a replacement or repair costs. The stronger, more resilient, and newer your windshield is, the easier it will be to replace or fix it. If your car is older or has been in several accidents, then it may be difficult for an auto glass technician to remove the old windshield and install a new one. This will cause the cost of the replacement to increase.
Choosing the Right Company
When it comes to windshield repair and replacement, it’s important to choose a reputable company that you can trust. Make sure to do your research and read reviews before choosing a company. It’s also a good idea to ask your friends and family for recommendations.
Auto glass repair and replacement companies should offer a warranty on the work they perform. This ensures that you won’t have any problems with the windshield after it has been fixed or replaced. It does not cover damage from natural disasters, fights, accidents, intentional damage, or vandalism.
If you’re looking for a quick and easy repair, then you might want to consider installing a windshield film. These films are an inexpensive alternative to windshield repairs and replacements. They come in several styles and colors, including clear, tinted gray, and patterned metal or wood looks. Advanced films even have anti-reflective coatings to reduce glare.
Auto glass repair and replacement can be costly, but it’s important to choose the right company and get the work done correctly. By following these tips, you can make sure that your windshield is repaired or replaced properly.
Safety
Windshield damage can affect the safety of your car. A crack in the windshield can affect the way the airbag deploys in an accident, and it may also cause the roof to cave in. It’s important to have any damage repaired as soon as possible to ensure the safety of you and your passengers.
Visibility
If the crack in your windshield is obstructing your view, then it’s important to have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible. A windshield that doesn’t provide adequate visibility can be a safety hazard.
Dimensions
The dimensions of your windshield also play a role in whether you need a repair or replacement. If the crack is less than 6 inches long, it can usually be repaired. If it’s more than 12 inches long, then a replacement will be required.
Depth
If the crack is not very deep, then it can likely be repaired. However, if it’s deeply set into your windshield, then you will need to replace the whole windshield instead of just repairing the windshield damage.
Quick. Convenient. Reliable.
When you need a windshield repair or replacement, turn to the experts at 2nd Chance Auto Glass. We offer quick, convenient, and reliable service. Plus, we offer a warranty on all our work. Windshield damage has nothing on us! Contact us today to schedule an appointment!