If you have a chip or crack in your windshield, you may have many questions about auto glass repair. Many people often wonder whether their windshield can or should be repaired, how quickly it needs to be repaired and what can happen if the glass is not repaired. Here are a few of the questions you may have about windshield repair and the answers to these questions.
Can All Auto Glass Chips or Cracks Be Repaired?
Not every auto glass chip or crack can be repaired. An auto glass chip should be smaller than the size of a quarter to be repaired. An auto glass crack should be no larger than the size of a dollar bill to be repaired. The location of the crack or chip also affects whether it can be repaired. Chips or cracks that impede your sightline as the driver should not be repaired, nor should chips or cracks that are along the edges of the auto glass. Finally, chips or cracks that have multiple branches to them may not be able to be repaired. If a chip or crack cannot be repaired, replacing your auto glass is the only solution available to you.
How Quickly Does a Windshield Chip or Crack Need to Be Repaired?
It is highly recommended that you repair or replace a windshield chip or crack. There is no exact time frame for when this should be done though. As a general rule of thumb, the faster you have repairs made, the more likely it is that a repair can be made and the more likely it is that the repair will last.
What Happens If You Do Not Repair a Windshield Chip or Crack in a Timely Manner?
If you fail to repair a windshield chip or crack in a timely manner, two different things can happen. First, the chip can fill with dirt and dust. This debris can prevent the resin that is used to fill a chip or crack from adhering properly. This can reduce the likelihood of the chip or crack repair lasting. The second reason why it is important to repair a windshield chip or crack in a timely manner is that cracks or chips can grow. Temperature extremes cause the glass to expand and contract, which causes the crack or chip to grow. Road vibrations can also cause a chip or crack to grow. Repairing your chip or crack timely helps to prevent the chip or crack from worsening.
If you have a chip or crack in your windshield, it is recommended that you get the chip or crack repaired as quickly as possible to help prevent it from growing. Contact your preferred auto glass repair shop today to schedule an appointment to have your auto glass inspected and either repaired or replaced, depending on which is needed.
