We covered it all in this comprehensive guide on windshield repair. From what to do from the instant windshield damage occurs, through the cost of windshield repair, all the way to how weather impacts when you should repair your windshield. Check it out and you'll have nearly every question you've ever had about windshield repair, answered.

One of the first questions to come up after finding out your windshield is damaged is, “What do I do next?”  After the excitement of the initial damage subsides, a decision should be made on whether it should be repaired or replaced. Many years ago, all windshields were replaced when there was any sort of damage -- no questions asked. The entire windshield would be removed and a new one installed for the smallest of imperfections. But as you can imagine, that became very expensive for windshields with minor damage. Thus, the idea of windshield repair was born. Because after all, why replace an entire windshield when just the damaged area can be repaired?

Windshield Damage that is Suitable for Repair

There are many different types of cracks, chips, and nicks. Some are large, some are small. Some are round, some are straight. And quite frankly, some can be repaired easier than others. Windshield damage that is smaller in size and not immediately in front of the driver are great candidates for windshield repair. In most cases, breaks that are smaller than a quarter in size and less than a few inches wide are repairable. 

Keep in mind that small damage can spread quickly, reduce visibility, and ultimately lead to unsafe driving conditions. So it is best to address small breaks before they become much larger issues. In most cases, cracks and chips that are directly in the driver’s line of sight, regardless of size, require windshield replacement instead of windshield repair.

Driving with a Cracked or Chipped Windshield

Since windshields are an important safety feature on all vehicles, there are some great reasons for repairing those nasty chips sooner, rather than later. One of the bigger reasons to repair that chip is that windshield chips can quickly turn into cracks. Not too mention driving with a cracked windshield is even worse and puts you and your passengers at greater risk. If that wasn’t enough, driving with a chip in your windshield also puts you at risk for getting a traffic violation. Who wants to deal with that? For your benefit, we’ve compiled the top 5 important reasons for repairing windshield chips.

Who Can Repair Windshield Chips & Scratches?

Windshield repair typically comes down to a couple of options: yourself, or someone else. Depending on one’s skill set and knowledge the vehicle owner may be able to scrounge up a DIY repair kit and get the job done. But repairing the windshield chip yourself, or even a small scratch across the windshield that is directly in the driver's line of vision, may not be the easiest task. In fact, we’ve created a small guide about repairing a scratched windshield that answers the question, “Can scratched auto glass be fixed?” Sure you can check out videos on YouTube and talk to the guy down the street who repaired his windshield, once, 40 years ago. But, there is a greater sense of peace when you know the job is done right, by a professional auto glass repair technician. They have the best products, use the right tools, the training, and have quite a bit of experience doing their craft. There is value in getting the job done. And there is greater value in getting the job done right.

What is Mobile Windshield Repair?

Mobile windshield repair is pretty much the greatest thing since sliced bread. If you like to be pampered, there is a good chance that you want your vehicle pampered as well. And with the rise of in-home and on-demand services, you can do that. Convenience is huge and the auto services industry isn’t going to be left behind. If you want your car detailed, your oil changed, or your windshield repaired, you can get that done because these businesses are mobile and come to the customer.

Among the many benefits of mobile windshield repair, there is no need to wait in line for personal attention and, in many cases, you are working directly with the company owner. You always get great service from the owner! Although an appointment is normally preferred, many mobile auto glass businesses can come out with as little as 24 hours notice.

But beware, the mobile aspect of business does attract “fly-by-night” operators who have little experience or business acumen. Know who you are hiring and know that they are reputable. Before you hire them, check their references and online reviews.

And lastly, when you schedule an appointment for mobile windshield repair, be sure that your employer’s parking lot security will provide access to the employee parking area. Although auto glass technicians know a lot about windshield repair, they don’t know every parking lot passcode.

What Does Windshield Repair Cost?

It depends on several factors, such as:

• Size
• Shape
• Location
• Vehicle type

Repair estimates can vary greatly but it is often completely covered by auto insurance. For example, windshield repair maybe $75 for one vehicle, but can be well over $200 for a brand new luxury vehicle to repair the same nickel-sized windshield chip.

Many auto insurance companies cover windshield repairs in full with no deductible. After all, the insurance companies rather pay for a windshield repair than a much more costly fee to replace the entire windshield. Auto Glass companies will gladly provide a quote for their services and the good ones work directly with your insurance carriers to help take care of the claim process.

Is it Okay to Put Off Windshield Repair?

Small windshield chips or cracks are more than an aesthetic problem, they can be an inconvenience on the road and even be dangerous under certain conditions. When damage does occur, it is best to address the situation sooner, rather than later.

Delaying windshield repair will increase the likelihood of additional damage. Not only are cracks likely to spread, but a cracked windshield compromises the structural integrity of the windshield. While a dense object can cause a small crack in the windshield, a much smaller object can make that crack much worse. If you end up in a collision with an already damaged windshield, it will likely shatter easier and not provide the same structural support. Not too mention, driving with a damaged windshield is a violation of the law in some states.

A common reason why many vehicle owners delay windshield repairs is that they do not want to spend money on the repair. But, what many people do not realize is that if you wait, the windshield will only incur more damage, leading to more costly repairs bills down the road. Before long, the entire windshield may need to be replaced which is much more expensive than getting a minor repair job done. To top it off, repairing a windshield is very likely covered by your insurance.

Does Weather Dictate When You Should Repair Your Windshield?

A proper windshield will help seal your vehicle and keep the weather on the outside and temperature controls on the inside. Damaged windshields run the risk of allowing water into your vehicle. And if your windshield is cracked and failing to maintain temperature controls, your vehicle’s air conditioner and heater will be working extra hard. 

In the winter, cold temperatures will impact a damaged windshield by accelerating the cracking process. As windshield cracks expand, more cold air enters the vehicle and prohibits the windshield defroster from doing its job, making it difficult to see the road. The weather definitely impacts a damaged windshield and will make driving with one more adventurous.

People do not realize how important their windshield is until it is damaged. It can be so easy to take that large piece of glass for granted when it is in good condition and there are no chips or cracks. But when a small blemish occurs across that pane of glorious glass, you need to be prepared and know what to do.