HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU REPLACE YOUR WINDSHIELD?
While often taken for granted, the windshield of your car plays an important role while you’re driving down the road. Without this solid piece of glass, you wouldn’t be protected from flying debris, loose rocks, raindrops or hail. Your windshield is even designed to protect you in the event of an accident by adding structural support to the frame. However, too many drivers forget about their windshield and neglect signs that it’s time to replace it.
HOW LONG DOES A WINDSHIELD LAST?
The lifespan of your windshield depends on many variables. However, it’s important to note that an undamaged windshield can last for the entire life of a vehicle. Unlike other parts which need to be changed routinely, such as brake pads and tires, your windshield is designed to last a long time.
A damaged windshield, on the other hand, may need to be replaced. Sudden cracking may significantly reduce the lifespan of the glass. All it takes is one large crack, and you will need to completely replace the panel.
CAN YOU REPAIR THE DAMAGE?
Automobile glass is designed differently than many other types of glass on the market. Instead of shattering when cracked, your windshield is designed to stay in one piece. If the damage is small enough, you may be able to have it repaired. A few things to consider when deciding between repair and replacement include:
- Size of the crack or chip
Generally speaking, the smaller the damage, the easier it is to repair. Chips that are the size of a quarter or smaller can usually be filled. Cracks should be less than 3 inches in length.
- Location of the damage
Damage to the center or passenger side of the windshield is often repaired without any problem. However, if the damage is on the driver’s side and obstructs your vision, replacing the glass will be recommended.
- Number of chips
It’s very common to see more than one chip or crack in a windshield. While it may be easy to repair a handful of small chips, too many may weaken the glass. If the strength of the glass is compromised by too much damage, you should have it replaced.
WHEN SHOULD YOU SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP?
Every crack or chip should be evaluated by a glass expert right away. No matter how benign the chip may seem, it’s inevitable that it will spread eventually. In many cases, a small crack may spread and spider across the entire windshield overnight. If this happens, you will have to replace the glass.
An auto glass professional will evaluate the extent of the damage. They have the skill and know-how to help determine the best course of action. If the glass is salvageable, it will be repaired. Most glass repairs take under an hour to complete.
Windshield repair is often covered by insurance. In many cases, the insurance company will pay for the repair without collecting a deductible. Replacement, however, is not always covered, and it costs a lot more overall. Repairing any small chip or crack may save you money in the long run.
You may be surprised to hear that your windshield may last for the entire time you own the vehicle. Fixing small chips and cracks as they occur is one way to increase the lifespan of your windshield. Never put off having your windshield repaired by an expert.