When to Replace Your Windshield

Size and Depth of the Damage

The most straightforward factor in deciding between repair and replacement is the size of the damage. 

• Chips - Generally, if a chip is larger than a quarter, it is too extensive to be safely repaired. The repair process involves injecting a resin into the damaged area, and with larger chips, the resin may not be able to completely fill the void and restore the glass's strength. 
• Cracks - Similarly, a crack that is longer than a dollar bill (about six inches) typically requires a full windshield replacement. Long cracks weaken the overall structure of the glass, and a simple repair won't be sufficient to prevent it from spreading further, especially with changes in temperature or road vibrations. 

The depth of the damage also matters. If a chip or crack penetrates through the outer layer of glass into the inner plastic layer (the polyvinyl butyral or PVB interlayer), a replacement is necessary. 

Location of the Damage

Where the damage is located on your windshield is just as important as its size. 

Driver's Line of Sight 

Any crack or chip, no matter how small, that falls directly within the driver's line of sight often calls for a replacement. Even after a repair, the process can leave some distortions in the glass. While subtle, these imperfections can obstruct your vision, catch sunlight in a distracting way, or cause a glare, which can be dangerous while driving. For safety, a clear, unobstructed view is non-negotiable, making replacement the only reliable option for damage in this critical area. 

Damage Near the Edge 

When a chip or crack is located near the edge of the windshield, it poses a high risk to the glass's structural stability. The edges are the weakest points of a windshield, and damage in this area can easily spread across the entire surface. A small crack that starts at the edge can quickly expand, compromising the seal that holds the windshield in place and weakening its ability to support the roof in a rollover accident. 

Type of Damage

Not all windshield damage is the same. The type of crack or chip can determine whether a repair is possible. 

• Bull's-Eye or Half-Moon - These are typically circular chips that can often be repaired if they are small enough. 
• Star Break - This type of damage has small cracks radiating out from a central point. These can sometimes be repaired if they are not too large. 
• Combination Break - This is a mix of a bull's-eye and a star break. Repairability depends on the size and complexity. 
• Long Cracks and Multiple Cracks - If your windshield has several cracks or one very long crack, its integrity is significantly compromised. In these cases, a full replacement is the safest course of action. The presence of multiple damage points indicates a widespread weakness that cannot be effectively addressed with localized repairs. 

Trust Discount Mobile Auto Glass for Your Replacement

If you've determined that your windshield needs to be replaced, it's important to have the work done by qualified technicians. At Discount Mobile Auto Glass, we provide convenient and efficient windshield replacement services for drivers throughout Pasadena, Deer Park, Baytown, La Porte, and the surrounding areas of Texas. 

We understand that finding time in a busy schedule can be difficult. That's why we offer mobile windshield replacement. Our skilled technicians can come to your location, whether you're at home, at work, or on the side of the road, to perform the replacement. This eliminates the need for you to drive a vehicle with a compromised windshield or disrupt your daily routine. 

Using advanced equipment and high-quality materials, we ensure that your new windshield is installed correctly and securely, restoring the safety and functionality of your vehicle. Contact us today to schedule your mobile windshield replacement and get back on the road safely!