“Repair or Replace?

In general, most chips and cracks can be repaired, but it always depends upon four factors: the size, type, depth, and location of the damage. Results will vary based on age, amount of contamination, location & the severity of the damage.

Size and Depth

Pretty much any shop should be able to repair chips of about one-inch diameter and cracks about three inches long. Traditionally, any crack larger than a dollar bill could not be repaired, so size was a very important factor in making the determination.

Type

There are many different types of cracks, some can be repaired easier than others. For example, Star Break (short radial cracks coming off of the impact point), Bulls-Eye (circular damaged caused by circular object) or Partial Bulls-Eye (aka Half Moon, also caused by circular object, damage is not completely circular), Crack Chip (single crack size of a quarter), Ding (same as Crack Chip), or Pit (small piece of glass missing) can be easily repaired.

In general, chips and cracks that can be covered with a quarter can usually be repaired because glass shops center equipment over the break.”

Read about more factors here.

Obviously, you don’t want to replace your windshield unless absolutely necessary. Repair is less costly and a much quicker job to perform than replacement. If the chip or crack is minor you should still have it repaired by a professional. Don’t be fooled by these so called do-it-yourself kits as they differ greatly from the equipment used by professionals.

Whether you need a windshield repair or replacement, IAS Auto Glass has you covered. Call us at 952-797-4374 to schedule an appointment for honest and affordable auto glass repair service.