The windshield of your vehicle can incur damage from many different sources. Although differing incidents can harm the glass of your windshield, the amount of damage that occurs may differ based on the source of the trauma. An impact with a tiny pebble is likely to cause a completely different amount of damage than a collision with a deer.

Regardless of the type and extent of the damage, the automotive glass should be repaired or replaced. Typically, if a chip is shallow and smaller in diameter than a couple of inches, the damaged glass can be repaired. Additionally, a single crack that could be covered by a dollar bill is often repairable.

Still, there are many instances when a windshield needs to be replaced. Here is a bit of information about damages that require glass replacement.

A Hole in Your Windshield

If a traumatic event causes a hole in your windshield, the glass should not be repaired but replaced. Once the depth of the damage has breached the deeper layers of the safety glass or has caused a complete opening in the automotive glass, a new windshield is needed.

Three Cracks or More

Sometimes, multiple cracks can develop in your windshield glass. Once at least three cracks are present, your windshield's ability to remain intact after additional impacts diminishes. To ensure your safety, it's best to replace the glass.

Cracks That Are Longer Than a Dollar Bill

Cracks that are long enough to extend beyond the length of a dollar bill necessitate a windshield replacement. Changes in temperature and atmospheric pressure can cause a crack to extend. Additionally, variations in the road surface, such as potholes and other irregularities, can place stress on the cracked area, resulting in worsening damage.

A Crack at the Edge of Your Windshield

Cracks and nicks that occur along the perimeter of a windshield can weaken the glass. If the structural integrity of the windshield is greatly diminished, the glass is no longer safe to keep in place. A replacement is necessary.

Inner Layer of the Windshield Is Discolored

The safety glass of a windshield has multiple layers. The middle layer is made up of plastic.

This plastic material may become discolored if a breach in the glass exposes it to the environment. The discoloration may become bothersome to a driver or impair their ability to see clearly through the windshield. Thus, drivers often prefer to replace the glass if discolored areas have developed.

If your windshield is damaged, schedule a consultation with an automotive glass service provider who offers auto safety glass replacement.

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