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Auto Glass Repair

Damaged Windshield: Repair vs. Replacement—Which is Better?

Windshield damage is one of the common problems that car owners face. Thirty percent of auto insurance claims in the United States are for windshields. Considering the number of auto insurance claims in the US, you can estimate how frequently windshields get damaged. When dealing with a damaged windshield, you’re presented with two choices; either get the windshield repaired or replace it with a new one. Which option should you choose? It depends! Here are three factors that you should consider:

Location of the damage

The location of the damaged windshield area plays the most crucial role in deciding whether you should go for a repair or replacement. If the damaged area is parallel to the driver’s eye-line, consider replacing the windshield as it can impair the driver’s vision. Similarly, if the damage is at a corner of the windshield, it will also warrant a replacement due to stability issues. However, if the damage is around the passenger’s side and doesn’t interfere with the driver’s vision, then repair is on the cards. 

Size does matters

The size of windshield damage is also one of the top criteria to determine whether you need to get it replaced or repairs will do the trick. If the damaged area is less than the size of a dollar bill, the chances are that it can be repaired by an auto glass service provider. However, if the damaged area is too big, repairing is no longer a viable choice, and you’ll be better off with a total windshield replacement. READ: How to Prevent Damages to Your Windshield

The extent of damage

In addition to size, the extent of damage should also be evaluated to make the right call. A  few chips or cracks can be repaired by a professional. However, if there are several cracks in the windshield, it means it lost its structural integrity and can shatter from an impact, and therefore, will require replacement.

Final words

A general rule of thumb is that the windshield should be replaced rather than repaired if:
  • There’s a crack or chip that’s directly in the driver’s line of sight
  • The size of the crack is longer than 6 inches
  • There are more than three cracks or chip
  • The damage is at the edge of the windshield
These guidelines will help you make an informed choice related to your windscreen repair or replacement. However, it’s best to get your windshield inspected from a professional to ensure you make the right decision. READ: 7 Types of Windshield Cracks You Should Address Immediately At AAR Auto Glass, we offer auto glass and windshield repair and replacement services at competitive rates. Based in Houston, TX, we’re a reputed company with 30 years’ worth of experience in the Houston area auto industry. Call at (832) 303-0318 to get started!

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