Having a crack in your windshield is a real headache. You might be tempted to avoid taking your car to be repaired because the crack or chip isn’t blocking your view, but waiting can make a crack much worse! Plymouth Glass & Mirror are experts of the industry and we are here to help!
How can you tell if a windshield can be repaired? How do you know it needs to be replaced?
The simple answer is: it depends. There are many factors that go into whether or not a repair can be done. It mainly depends on how much damage your windshield has sustained, and how long your windshield has been damaged. The time is important because there are other factors that can actually make the crack worse. If it has rained or snowed heavily since the crack happened, moisture can seep into the windshield, making the damage worse. If more rocks or debris have hit the damaged windshield, the impact can make the crack spread. Even changes in weather can affect how large or deep the cracks and chips are.
Generally speaking, a chip that is smaller than a quarter or a crack that is less than three inches long can be repaired. Anything larger than that must be judged on a case-by-case basis, but it usually warrants the replacement of the entire windshield.
How can you minimize damage to your chipped or cracked windshield?
The best thing you can do to minimize damage to your windshield is to take your car in as soon as you can when your windshield is damaged. Even if the crack seems small, it’s better to get it repaired before it spreads.
If you have a windshield in need of repair or replacement, don’t wait! Call Plymouth Glass now. We can set up an appointment for you to bring your car in, or our mobile glass repair unit can come to you!
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It’s important to not drive a vehicle when any of the windows are damaged. Auto glass repair or replacement should be done immediately. Here’s why:
A Cracked Windshield Might Violate the Law
All 50 states have their own laws concerning whether a cracked windshield is illegal. In some states, even the smallest imperfection could be grounds for you getting a ticket. However, in other states, police are only concerned if the crack obstructs your ability to drive. Looking at the state of Connecticut, the law says that your windshield must not have any defects that obstruct your view of the road. This means that if you do have a cracked or chipped windshield, a police officer can pull you over at his or her discretion and issue a ticket if they feel your glass problem makes it dangerous for you to drive.
The Damage Could Become Worse While Driving
If you already have a crack in your windshield, for example, and a rock kicks up and hits while you are driving, this could cause the crack to immediately become larger. The larger the crack, the harder it is for you to see the road.
You Cannot Clearly See the Road
Any cracks or chips in your windshield have the potential to make it more difficult to see when you are driving. If any glass problems—on the windshield, back window or side windows—obstruct your view, it is important that the damage is immediately taken care of.
The Glass Could Break While Driving
While not a common problem, this is possible, especially if the glass damage is severe. If this happens, it could quickly cause an accident because it could startle you and completely obstruct your vision.
Auto Glass Replacement Versus Repair
Ultimately, whether you need to repair the glass or you require a complete replacement is up to the discretion of the glass professional and your preferences. Many will not repair glass damage larger than a couple of inches since this could make it harder to see through the glass. This is understandable because it is critical that nothing obstruct your view of the road. The location of the damage is also important. Your glass professional will let you know if the location of the damage warrants a replacement or a repair.
Now you know more about why you should never wait when you need auto glass repair in Hartford. Make sure that you choose a reputable company to do the work, so that once it is fixed, you know that it will remain in good condition.
