Repair VS. Replacement

The most basic question is whether to fix the windshield problems or just get the windshield replaced. This decision needs to be made fairly quickly, because the longer you wait to fix the damage, the larger it will become. The larger it becomes, the more expensive the process becomes and it could get to the point where your only option is to replace the windshield.

Windshield repair depends are a variety of factors. The two most important factors are: where the damage is and how severe the damage is.

1. Where is the Damage

Experts and professionals will tell you that the location of the damage is often just as important as the severity of the damage. If the damage appears towards the outside rim of the glass, they are prone to spreading quickly and can easily compromise the structural integrity of the windshield. If the structural integrity is compromised, then replacing the windshield is often your only option.

2. Severity/Size of Damage

As a general rule, you will not be able to get a crack repaired if it is more than 6 inches long. If your problem is a chip instead of a crack, the chip should not be larger than a quarter. Keep in mind that these rules are not hard and fast, always check with a local professional.

Potential Costs

The reason the people choose to fix windshields instead of replacing them is because fixing them is much cheaper. Replacing an entire windshield can cost between $250 and $500. On the other hand, repairing a chip in the glass will often only be $50 to $75 for the first chip and then an additional fee for each following chip. The general rule is that the larger the crack or chip, the more expensive the process will be.

Who To Talk To

Once you decide that you need to fix your windshield, the best place to go is to a windshield repair professional. They have a specialized skill set that ensures that the job will be done right. Moreover, getting your windshield repaired can require special tools and techniques that are hard to find anywhere else. Windshield repair professionals focus primarily on fixing windshield problems just like yours. When it comes to something as important as your windshield, a windshield repair professional is always going to be the best option available.

Problems With Windshield Replacement

While windshield replacement is sometimes necessary, it is not as common as simple windshield chip repair. Know that windshields that are replaced incorrectly can leak when it rains, or become unglued if the bonding is not secured. If your chip is the size of a quarter or smaller, you probably need only windshield chip repair, not replacement.

In addition, windshield chip repair is a simple process and does not affect your car’s resale value. Your auto glass repair technician should guarantee the work, so you know that your car is protected as long as you own the car.

Avoid Conflict Of Interest

Replacement companies that offer rock chip repair often discourage repair as an option, preferring the more profitable windshield replacement. In many cases, their chip repairs have a high failure rate. To avoid liability, they tell the client that the cost of the failed repair can be applied to getting a new windshield installed.

Our technician will determine if your windshield is repairable. If it is, comprehensive insurance coverage usually pays the claim. This is called a no-fault, no-cost claim and does not affect your coverage in a negative way.