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Windshield Damage: Repair Or Replace?

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Before, your only option after your windshield sustains damages, like stone chips

and cracks, is to get a new windshield. Thankfully, modern technology has made it

simple to repair windshields that would have been replaced otherwise, and as a

result, allow you to cut costs and go back to the road faster. But, you need to

understand that even with the most sophisticated

windshield repair solutions, there are still

restrictions as to what can be repaired. If your

windshield was cracked considerably, buying a

new one to replace it may be necessary.

It can be very tempting to use inexpensive fix-it

kits that are sold in shopping malls, but these often

give unwanted results. The resin compound that is

used in these products will turn yellow and weakens over time. Once they’re

applied, the windshield can no longer be professionally fixed. For that reason, to

ensure your safety and to avert unnecessary expenses, take your damaged

windshield to a car glass shop right away.

Can my windshield be repaired or does it need to be replaced?

Choosing to repair or replace the windshield depends on various variables, like

how large the chip or crack is, where it is, and severity of the damage. If you can

cover the crack or chip with a quarter, it can be repaired.

Smaller sized chips or cracks can usually be repaired with a resin-based material

that is injected by professionals into them, and then cured through the use of high

intensity ultraviolet light. Repair shops will only carry this process out if the

affected area is not in the driver’s line of sight since the repair method may leave

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slight distortions in the glass, which can consequently affect how well you see and

make driving dangerous.

Some auto glass shops will fix long cracks if

these are not at the edge of the windshield in

more than one place. This is because these

cracks generally spread rapidly and can

negatively affect the glass's integrity.

How much will it cost to repair or replace

my windshield?

Windshield repair rates are quite consistent. In most cases, a single rock chip will

be around 40 to 50 dollars, with each additional chip costing an extra 10 dollars

each. Longer fissures, for instance those that are six to twelve inches across require

special treatment and will amount to approximately $70.

Replacing a windshield will cost you considerably more. Aside from the brand new

windshield, the total cost will include fees for a molding kit and labor. The price

tag for a new windshield varies according to the type of car you drive and where

you will have it replaced. For instance, third-party auto glass repair and

replacement center can ask you around $350 for a new windshield. Dealers will

bill you a minimum of $500 for a similar job.