Whether you were parked on the wrong side of a home run, or your windshield took the brunt of debris on the roadway, there might come a time when you’re faced with the need for windshield replacement. And while some things point directly to the need for replacement, others might not, which might make you wonder about the obvious and not-so-obvious signs to look for that indicate you may need windshield replacement.
Obvious Signs You May Need Windshield Replacement
- Large Cracks: Cracks longer than a few inches, particularly those longer than six inches, usually necessitate replacement since they jeopardize the structural integrity of the windshield.
- Chips or Cracks That Impact Sight Lines: Additionally, chips or cracks in your line of sight can distort vision and make driving unsafe.
- Edge Cracks: You might also notice that cracks that begin or reach the edge of the windshield tend to spread faster and jeopardize the overall strength of the windshield. Edge cracks are particularly concerning since they can compromise the vehicle’s frame and structural strength.
Not-So-Obvious Signs You May Need Windshield Replacement
- White Haze: A white haze along the windshield’s margins shows that the plastic layer inside is separating from the glass. This condition weakens the windshield, necessitating replacement.
- Windshield Pitting: Windshields can develop pits over time because of prolonged contact with tiny materials such as sand and gravel. Extensive pitting can scatter light, resulting in glare and reduced visibility, particularly at night.
- Structural Integrity Issues: The windshield is critical to the vehicle’s structural integrity, particularly during rollovers. Damage that impairs the windshield’s ability to stay in place, such as looseness or rattling, is a major safety risk and may require windshield replacement.
The good news is that our team can not only offer you professional window replacement, but we’re also a preferred vendor for insurance companies.