Windscreen Damage Options

If your car windscreen becomes cracked or chipped you have two options. You can try and repair the crack or you can replace the entire windscreen. There are some cases when repairing the windscreen is a good idea and there are some cases when it is best to replace the windscreen. Whichever option, it is important that you fix the windscreen’s problem as soon as possible because a crack in the windscreen is a safety hazard best to avoid.

Repairing a windscreen involves filling in the crack or chip with a clear resin that will harden and strengthen the area of the windscreen that was damaged. Usually damage that is three inches or less in diameter or a crack that is twelve inches or less can be repaired.

If the crack or chip is very large or if it is directly in the driver’s line of sight then it is suggested to replace the windscreen rather then repair it. The clear resin that is applied to the windscreen is not 100% invisible and if the damage to the windscreen is in the line of sight of the driver it may cause a distortion and the driver may have trouble seeing out of the windscreen. If the damage is very large, the windscreen will have lost too much strength that cannot be regained by repairing the crack with resin.

Repairing the damage to the windscreen is less expensive then replacing the windscreen. Many insurance companies will cover the entire cost of repairing a windscreen but will not cover the entire cost of replacing it.

When deciding whether to replace or repair your windscreen, keep in mind the size and location of the damage. No matter what option you choose, make sure to fix the damage immediately because a damaged windscreen is very unsafe. A damaged windscreen can get much worse very quickly so do not comprise your safety by waiting to repair or replace your windscreen.

Back to Articles