Windshield Replacement vs. repair: Which is Right Option?
Windshield Replacement vs. Repair: Which Option is Right for You?
A windshield offers a clear 360-degree view of your surroundings and shields the interior of the car from dust and debris. Furthermore, it adds aerodynamic stability to your vehicle.
No matter how many safety measures we take; eventually, all of us will experience a cracked windscreen at some point in our lives. So how should you respond when faced with such an occurrence? Will you choose to get windshield repair or windshield replacement? How will you choose the right option?
Before we delve into the specifics of what to do about a cracked windshield, let us first cover some fundamentals.
How Strong Is My Windshield?
Windshields are made up of laminated glass, an impact-resistant safety glass. Furthermore, their high penetration resistance ensures the safety of drivers and passengers in case damage does occur. When damage does occur, breakage will be localized at the impact point with only a minor chip or crack visible to drivers, thus preserving visibility for everyone around them.
Types of Windshield Damages
Windshield chip repair: Small chips or cracks in the windshield caused by flying debris, such as rocks or pebbles.
Cracks: Larger cracks in the windshield are caused by impacts from larger objects, such as hail or fallen branches.
Star breaks: Star-shaped cracks that radiate from a single point of impact.
Bulls-eye breaks: Circular cracks that resemble a bull’s eye, typically caused by a larger impact, such as a golf ball or stone.
Combination breaks: Breaks that consist of a combination of chips, cracks, star breaks, and bull’s-eye breaks.
Scratches: Surface scratches on the windshield are caused by wiping the windshield with a dirty or abrasive cloth.
It’s important to have any windshield damage inspected and repaired as soon as possible, as it can quickly spread and become a safety hazard. In some cases, a damaged windshield may need to be completely replaced.
What Is Windshield Repair?
Most windshield repairs are minor and aim to restore the glass’s or windshields structural stability while restoring original visibility. There are various methods for this work, but most professionals opt for using the windshield resin technique as it offers better long-term success.
A correct car windshield repair can restore your windshield’s smooth appearance, creating a like-new surface.
What Is a Windshield Replacement?
A windscreen replacement involves completely removing an existing broken glass and installing a brand-new one.
Glass replacement is a more involved process than repairs, involving many steps. A skilled glass technician must carefully move from one step to the next before finally installing your brand-new windshield into its proper place.
Before beginning this task, professionals must remove various hardware pieces and old adhesive gaskets. After trimming and cleaning have been done correctly, the technician applies a new bonding agent, replaces the gasket, and then meticulously installs your auto glass with great care and precision. Car windscreen replacement requires skills and expertise to ensure success. A qualified technician should have experience installing window glasses and windshields for all car makes and models, guaranteeing your new auto glass are leak-free.
Windshield Repair Vs. Replacement: Which Option Is Right For You?
The decision between repairing a damaged windshield and replacing it depends on the extent and type of damage. Here are some factors to consider when making the decision:
Size and location of damage: If the damage is small and in a non-critical area of the windshield, such as the outer edge, it can often be repaired. If the damage is larger or located in the driver’s line of sight, it may require replacement.
Type of damage: Some types of damages may not be able to be repaired and require replacement, such as cracks extending to the windshield’s edge or bull’s-eye breaks. But some are repairable like “fix rock chip in the windshield”.
Safety concerns: A damaged windshield can affect the vehicle’s structural integrity, making it less safe in a collision. Replacement is typically recommended if the damage is severe or affects the driver’s line of sight.
Cost: In most cases, repairing a damaged windshield is less expensive than replacement. However, the cost can vary depending on the type and extent of damage, as well as the make and model of the vehicle.Ultimately, it’s best to have a professional inspect the damage to determine whether repair or replacement is the best option. It’s important to prioritize safety and repair or replace any damage as soon as possible.
