No one plans to experience a crack or chip in their windshield, but the reality is, most every driver will experience this kind of damage at one point or another.
You may be wondering when to repair windshield crack or chip; should you even have it repaired? Does it need to be replaced? Regardless of how your windshield was damaged, or the extent of the damage, it’s in your best interest to have the repairs made as soon as possible to ensure that the damage doesn’t get worse.
Whether you need a small fix or a complete replacement, here’s everything you need to know about a damaged windshield and when to have it repaired.
Repair Windshield Crack or Windshield Replacement?
If there’s any kind of fault in your windshield, you’re probably wondering whether the damage can be repaired or if you’ll need to have the entire windshield replaced. Either way, the process is fairly simple and pain-free as long as you enlist the help of a professional auto glass repair company.
Smaller chips and cracks can usually be repaired quickly and easily by a professional and your insurance in South Carolina will cover the repairs for you. As a general rule of thumb, if the chip or crack in your glass can be covered by a dollar bill, it’s safe to repair.
The exceptions to this rule are when the damage is directly in the driver’s line of vision, there are more than three chips or cracks, or the damage is at the edge of your windshield—in these cases, you’re better off replacing your window for safety purposes.
Your windshield plays a vital role in the proper function of your vehicle, which is why it’s important that you address any damages as soon as they appear–no matter how small and insignificant they may seem. A small little crack can easily escalate into a complete shatter should you hit a pothole just right or make an aggressive turn.
Car Window Repair and Replacement Ensures Safety
When it comes to a damaged window, the most important consideration is your safety and the safety of your passengers and fellow motorists. Unfortunately, many drivers think it’s ok to drive around with damaged auto glass, however, this poses a serious safety risk.
Your windshield provides structural integrity for your vehicle. If you were to experience a front end collision, for example, the windshield provides up to 45% of the vehicle’s structural integrity. So, if your auto glass is damaged, your vehicle is at an increased risk for not being able to withstand the blow of the collision, which increases the likelihood that you would suffer more extreme injuries and damages.
To answer the question when to repair windshield crack or chip, it’s as soon as the crack or chip appears!
Finding an “Auto Glass Repair Near Me” That You Can Trust
If your windshield is damaged, the first thing you’ll do is search for a “windshield repair near me,” especially if the damage happens when you’re away from home. The good news is, under South Carolina law, you’re covered at 100% for windshield replacement and repair.
All you need to do is find a reputable car window repair company that will come to you and swiftly replace or repair your damaged window for you so that you can get back on the road safely.
First Choice Auto Glass in Columbia SC is the top choice for window repair and replacement in the area. We offer top-notch service for all kinds of vehicles, regardless of the make or model and we use only OEM glass to replace your windshield.
Additionally, we offer a convenient mobile service that caters to your busy schedule by coming right to you and repairing your chipped or cracked windshield quickly and efficiently.
For the best auto glass repair Columbia SC has to offer, count on the team at First Choice Auto Glass!