In our 75+ years of experience, we’ve seen all kinds of windshield cracks and chips. From minor dings to large spider web-like cracks, we’ve seen it all. We’re so good at fixing cracked windshields that we can do it in about 30 minutes, but not all cracks are repairable. So, how large of a windshield crack can actually be fixed?
Some windshield crack sizes and shapes are fixable, depending on the depth. Due to compromised integrity, we don’t recommend repairing any crack that’s more than three inches long or deeper than a quarter inch. We repair spider cracks, star breaks, and bullseye chips as long as the radius is less than half an inch.
Remember, windshield cracks aren’t just ugly; they obstruct a driver’s vision and compromise your car’s structural integrity. If you have a large crack that can’t be repaired, you’d better replace the windshield immediately for your safety.
Understanding Windshield Cracks and Vehicle Safety Standards
We already answered the question. “Can you drive with a cracked windshield?” We laid out that windshield cracks may seem like a minor inconvenience, but they can actually pose serious safety risks.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) asserts that windshields are essential to your vehicle’s overall structural integrity. Windshields provide up to 45% of the structural strength in a front-end collision and up to 60% protection in a rollover accident.
Let’s not forget clarity. A damaged windshield can significantly obstruct your vision while driving, hindering your ability to operate your vehicle safely.
That’s why NHTSA imposes strict windshield repair and replacement regulations and standards.
Types of Windshield Cracks and Chips
Before we discuss the size limitations for windshield crack repairs, let’s briefly discuss the different types of cracks and chips.
- Bullseye chip: It’s a circular impact point with cracks radiating outwards, resembling a bullseye target. Most bullseye chips are easy to repair as they’re shallower than a quarter inch.
- Star break: It’s a series of short cracks radiating from the impact point, resembling a star. Again, most star breaks are repairable if they’re smaller than half an inch in radius.
- Spider crack: These are multiple small cracks that resemble spiderwebs spreading outwards from the impact point. Depending on the size and location, spider cracks may or may not be repairable.
- Chips: These are minor, single-point damages caused by impact. Most chips occur due to small debris or pebbles hitting the windshield while driving. Chips smaller than a half inch are usually repairable.
- Cracks: These are similar to chips but longer and more prominent. Various conditions, including extreme temperature changes, vehicle collisions, or improper installation, cause cracks.
Why Prompt Repairs Matter
Even if the damage on your windshield seems minor, it’s crucial to get it repaired promptly. Here’s why:
- Safety: Again, a damaged windshield can obstruct your view while driving and increase the risk of accidents.
- Cost-effective: Repairing small chips or cracks is significantly cheaper than replacing an entire windshield.
- Legal compliance: NHTSA mandates that any damages larger than one inch in diameter or longer than six inches require immediate replacement.
- Damage prevention: Small cracks and chips can quickly spread and become more significant problems if left untreated. Prompt repairs can prevent further damage to your windshield.
- Resale value: A well-maintained vehicle with a clear windshield will always have a higher resale value than one with damaged glass.
How Large of a Windshield Crack Can Be Repaired?
Factors That Determine Reparability
While the size of the crack is an essential factor in determining whether it can be repaired, there are also other factors that come into play. These include:
- Location: Cracks located on the edges or corners of the windshield may not be repairable due to their proximity to the frame.
- Type of damage: Some types of cracks, such as long and deep ones, may not be repairable because they compromise the windshield’s structural integrity.
- Age and severity: Older and more severe cracks may have already spread too far and cannot be repaired.
- Cleanliness: If a crack’s contaminated with dirt or debris, it may not be possible to repair it effectively. It’s essential to clean the damaged area before attempting any repairs.
- Time elapsed: The longer you wait to repair a crack, the more likely dust and moisture will enter, making it impossible to fix.
When to Replace a Windshield
In some cases, repairing a windshield may not be possible, and replacement is the only option. These include:
- Large cracks: NHTSA guidelines mandate replacing windshields with a crack larger than an inch.
- Deep damage: If the crack has penetrated both layers of glass in a laminated windshield or reached the inner layer of tempered glass, repair may not be safe or effective.
- Multiple chips/cracks: Multiple or overlapping cracks may weaken the windshield and require replacement.
- Damage in the driver’s line of sight: Any damage obstructing the driver’s view must be replaced to ensure safe driving.
- Previous repairs: If a crack has already been repaired but failed, you can’t repair it again. Replacement is the only option in this case.
The Role of a Windshield Repair Technician
A windshield repair technician’s job is vital in maintaining the safety and structural integrity of your vehicle. They’re trained professionals with the knowledge and skills to assess and determine whether a crack is repairable.
You may want to avoid a replacement to save money, but it’s essential to trust the technician’s expertise and not try DIY repairs. Attempting to fix a crack yourself may result in improper repair, compromising your safety on the road.
The technician will evaluate several factors before deciding whether replacement is necessary. These include the size, location, and type of damage. They’ll also consider any contamination or debris in the damaged area, factoring in time.
Moreover, technicians also properly clean and prepare the damaged area before applying any repair materials. This step is crucial because any dirt or debris left behind can hinder the effectiveness of the repair.
Windshield Repair Kit
There are various windshield repair kits available in the market that claim to fix chips and cracks. However, these kits may not provide a permanent solution and can only be used for minor damages.
Additionally, using a repair kit without proper knowledge or training can result in further damage to the windshield. It’s best to leave the repair job to trained professionals who have access to high-quality materials and tools.
Find out how long it takes to fix a windshield?
Fix Your Windshield Cracks the Rite-Way
At Rite-Way Auto Glass, we understand the importance of having a safe and reliable vehicle. That’s why we offer professional windshield repair services to ensure your safety on the road.
Our team of experienced technicians will assess the damage to your windshield and determine the best course of action. We use industry-standard techniques and materials for all our repairs, ensuring high-quality results.
We offer quick turnaround times for our repairs, allowing you to get back on the road as soon as possible.
