What Should I Do If My Windshield Is Cracked?

Blog Dec 31st, 2021

Vehicle windshields are built to withstand all sorts of stress and wear. Even then, every driver should be prepared for the possibility of their windshield getting cracked or chipped. Below, we’ve explained how windshields often get damaged, what determines if the glass needs to be repaired or replaced, and more.

What Caused My Windshield To Crack or Chip?

It’s not unusual for drivers to only notice their windshield has been damaged after the fact. There’s no shortage of causes for windshield cracks and chips, but some of the most common include road debris, damage from wind or hail and sudden changes in temperature or pressure. Drivers who park their vehicles underneath large trees may also run the risk of something falling on to it and cracking the glass. To avoid damage, drivers should try to park their vehicle in an enclosed structure whenever possible and maintain a generous amount of distance when driving behind vehicles on rural roads.

Does My Windshield Need To Be Replaced?

A full windshield replacement costs much more than windshield damage repair service, but is unfortunately required in some situations. An automotive professional can assess the damage and inform you whether your windshield can be repaired or must be replaced. Many factors inform their decision, including the location of the damage, how far it has spread, and how deep into the glass it has gone. If the structural integrity of the automotive glass is permanently weakened due to the crack or chip, a complete replacement is necessary for safety reasons. However, shallow and tiny cracks should be easy for a technician to repair.

What Happens If I Don’t Repair My Damaged Windshield?

Some drivers may wonder if they can just ignore the damage done to their windshield if it’s relatively small or unobstructive. When it comes to getting windshield damage repaired, automotive service technicians typically suggest taking the vehicle in for service as soon as the driver can. Damage done to automotive glass only worsens with time, as the high vibrations caused by driving result in cracks and chips expanding over time. This means that damage that was initially small and easy to repair can grow in severity as the vehicle is used, possibly requiring a full windshield replacement if left unaddressed for too long.

If you’re located in the Keswick area and need to take your vehicle in for windshield repair or replacement, consider scheduling an appointment with the S&B Keswick Service Centre. Our team will diagnose the damage done to your windshield and determine what the best solution is for your vehicle.