This really shouldn't have to be stated, but additional damage is one of the most likely drawbacks that you will experience if you delay getting windshield crack repair taken care of immediately. Even tiny chips will grow over time. There are a number of reasons that a crack may grow including: vibrations from the road, dirt and debris get lodged into the crack and expand it, temperature changes, and everyday wear and tear. It will cost much more in the long run, especially if you are forced to replace the windshield, than if you would get it repaired immediately.
Any of these stone chips can be repaired. Beyond looking for these types of common chips, it is important to take into consideration the size of the damage. If the damage cannot be covered by a half dollar, the chip is too large to be repaired. Another important piece of information to consider is the acute area. The acute area is the area of the automobile windshield chip repair directly in the drivers line of vision. It is the same size as a piece of paper being held horizontally in front of the driver. In this area, the National Glass Association does not recommend a repair being done unless it is no greater than .95 of an inch. An easier way to imagine this is that a quarter should be able to cover the entire area of damage in the acute area.
There are no excuses for this kind of issue, because it is very easy to look for a specialist who can do the work. There are many options in finding a good specialist. You can use classified ads in the newspaper and in modern times you can always use the internet to find a company that can do the work for you. The price for this kind of job is very affordable. You have a wide array of choices. You must always remember that the auto glass is as important as the engine or body of a vehicle because it will also give you safety when driving.
Now that you know what can and can't be repaired, there's one more thing to consider. Time!! Many factors like extreme heat or cold and even your air conditioning cooling down the windshield on a hot day can cause the damage to get worse. The longer you wait to repair the damage, it could spread and may turn a repairable situation into a full blown automobile windshield chip repair costing YOU more. Most insurance companies WILL cover a rock chip on the windshield at no cost to you. Speak with your insurance agent to get more information on what they will cover when it comes to windshield damage.
As a windshield installer for the past thirty five years, let me give you three good reasons not to repair your windshield. As windshield repair is a gimmick in my opinion.
A surface pit is a nick in the glass associated with normal wear and tear that does not penetrate to the plastic inner layer. This can be repaired if the damaged area has a diameter of not less than 1/8 inch.
But the best way to fix a leak is completely removing the glass and shooting a new seal. This is the only way to truly see what is happening. If the glass is removed a technician can 100% fix the underlying issue. This option may require the purchase of a new molding. Also your auto glass company will most likely require you to purchase a new glass if the old glass breaks upon removal.