It wouldn’t be an understatement to claim that your windshield plays a vital role in maintaining your safety on the road. It’s an essential part of any car and is designed to prevent you from harm in the case of an accident. The condition of our windshield is something that we often take for granted. The importance of a windshield is highlighted when its condition is compromised due to cracks or chips. In such cases, it’s crucial that you repair the windshield immediately as the cracks and chips can impair your vision, which significantly increases the risk of an accident. Let’s look at four common types of windshield cracks.

Stress cracks

Since winter is just around the corner, it’s very likely that you’ll start to see stress cracks form on your windshield. Stress cracks occur due to the change in temperatures. The chances of stress cracks forming radically increase in extreme weather conditions, which is why we always recommend that you should avoid keeping your car out in the snow for long periods. The weather conditions can considerably weaken the overall condition of your windshield—to the point that you may even have to replace your windshield altogether.

Bull’s eye

Bull’s eye is one of the most common types of windshield cracks. The reason why it’s so common is that it’s caused by circular objects such as rocks. The crack resembles the bull’s eye you see on a dartboard, and its size is much larger than a chip. A piece of glass is removed on impact, making this type of damage extremely hard to repair.

Edge crack

This type of crack is usually found at the edge of your windshield. Edge cracks are particularly dangerous as they are generally over 10 inches in length, which considerably impairs the driver’s vision and compromises their safety. Instead of having the windshield repaired, the best course of action is to replace the windshield.

Star breaks

Shaped like a starburst, these types of cracks are sustained due to a series of small chips damaging the windshield. Although star breaks can be easily repaired, they are always slightly visible, which is why we people often prefer to replace their windshield completely. Star breaks that are even slightly visibly could lower your car’s resale value. If you’re looking for the best windshield repair services in Houston, TX, reach out to AAR Auto Glass. We offer rock chip repairs and windshield replacement services at affordable rates! Contact us today!