Driving with a heavily cracked or chipped windshield is incredibly dangerous. However, a complete windshield replacement can take a toll on your finances if you are not prepared for the expense.  Windshield replacement’s costly price tag leaves many Arizona residents wondering if they can fix their cracked windshields without replacing the entire panel.

That’s why Arizona Auto Glass Pros developed a brief guide to tell you everything you need to know about fixing cracked or chipped windshields without replacing the entire unit.

Arizona Auto Glass Pros is Arizona’s go-to choice for mobile auto glass windshield repair and replacement services. Our glass replacement and repair services will have your vehicle’s windshield as good as new again at a price that won’t break the bank. If you need windshield installation, repair, or replacement services in Arizona, contact the experts at Arizona Auto Glass Pros.

Fixing a Cracked Windshield Without Replacing It

Most windshield cracks and chips occur when road debris strikes the windshield at relatively high speeds. Damaged windshields often worsen over time and can significantly impair your vision while driving. Although windshield repair is often cheaper than replacing the entire panel, severe chips and cracks demand glass replacement services.

Determining the best solution for a damaged windshield depends on the following factors.

• The type of crack or chip
• Size
• Depth
• Location
• The number of cracks or chips

Quality auto shops can repair small, shallow chips and cracks (around two inches and 3/8 inches deep) without issues. However, more severe cracks and chips that penetrate both glass layers (windshields have two glass layers) typically require replacement services.

Sometimes auto shops can fix moderate windshield damage if it’s away from the driver’s side. However, the technician’s abilities play a role in the repair and replacement process. Your auto mechanic will evaluate the damage and work with your insurance carriers to determine the best solution for your situation.

When To Replace Windshields

Sometimes small cracks and chips are more severe than you might think. Below are the most prevalent determining factors for windshield replacement.

The Damaged Occurred on Tempered Glass

Although most windshields consist of laminated glass, the side and back windows are often made from tempered glass, making them more susceptible to damage. Tempered glass typically shatters upon impact, making side and rear windows more difficult to repair. It’s best to replace damaged tempered glass than attempt laborious repairs.

The Crack Is Severe

Cracks longer than a dollar bill are typically too severe to repair and require a complete replacement. Auto shops also have trouble fixing chips bigger than a quarter and recommend replacement services.

The Crack Is Exceedingly Deep

Again, large cracks and chips penetrating both glass layers require windshield replacement. However, sometimes top layer cracks expose the plastic within the glass, causing it to discolor over time. The discoloration creates a safety hazard and drastically reduces your vision. 

Talk to your auto shop to determine which service works best for your windshield.

Numerous Cracks and Chips

If your windshield has three or more chips or cracks, it’s best to replace it even if repairs are possible. Windshields with multiple cracks and chips often lose integrity after repair, making them more prone to natural elements and future damage.

The Cracks and Chips Are Along the Driver’s Side

Auto shops and mobile services often use robust windshield resin to repair cracks and chips. However, some resins leave behind residue that can hinder the driver’s vision. If you experience windshield cracks around the driver’s side, always replace the windshield to ensure optimal vision while driving.

Also, minor cracks spanning the entire windshield dramatically reduce the window’s integrity and leaves them more susceptible to future damage if repaired. Replace windshields with elongated cracks to improve structural integrity and prevent future cracks and chips.

Contact Arizona Auto Glass Pros for Professional Windshield Replacement in Arizona

If your vehicle experiences a severely cracked or chipped windshield, contact Arizona Auto Glass Pros for first-class windshield replacement and repair services. Our team only uses the highest quality windshield resin to repair chips and cracks within the glass, ensuring your windshield withstands the test of time. If the windshield is beyond repair, we will replace it with exceptional glass that can handle nearly anything mother nature throws its way.

Whether you need professional windshield replacement or repair services, Arizona Auto Glass Pros is here for you. Give us a call at (480) 605-1282 and see what our Arizona windshield experts can do for you today