Yes, in many cases, a cracked windshield can be repaired, depending on factors like the crack’s size, location, and severity. Professional windshield repair is a cost-effective and convenient option, especially for vehicles with advanced ADAS technology, where replacing a windshield can be significantly more expensive. Prompt windshield crack repair preserves the entire windshield, maintains safety, and helps you avoid higher replacement costs. Understanding when a repair is viable can help you avoid unnecessary replacements, save money, and extend the life of your windshield. To more completely answer the question, let’s explore the conditions that make a crack repairable and when replacement is the best solution.
The Repair of Laminated Auto Glass Standard
The Repair of Laminated Automotive Glass Standard (ROLAGS™), created by the Auto Glass Safety Council, outlines best practices for repairing windshield damage, based on industry consensus and ANSI guidelines. Developed by experts with extensive experience, ROLAGS provides standardized procedures, definitions, and processes to ensure safe, effective repairs for a clear view. It also sets standards for which types of damage can be repaired and provides guidelines on when a full replacement is necessary.
ROLAGS Factors That Determine Cracked Windshield Repairability
When assessing whether a cracked windshield can be repaired, several key factors come into play.
Size and Type of Crack
- Typically, small chips less than an inch in diameter and single line cracks up to 14 inches long can be repaired, depending on their location.
- Frequently a chip in the windshield spawns a “leg” or “legs” several inches long. When this happens, there can be no more than 2 legs up to 14” long for the damage to be repairable. These combinations of chips with long cracks emanating from them can be complex to repair and you should seek advice from a qualified repair professional for an assessment of repairability.
- Edge Cracks: A crack that runs to the edge of the windshield is usually repairable as long as it does not extend to a second edge.
Location of the Glass Damage
- Cracks intersecting 2 edges of the windshield may need replacement for safety reasons.
- Windshields with long cracks in the driver’s primary viewing area – defined as a 12-inch-wide area, centered on the driver’s position; extending from the top to the bottom of the wiper sweep – should be replaced. This is due to the simple fact that even the best crack repairs are not invisible. Although the glare and visual disruption is greatly diminished by the repair process, even repaired cracks in the direct driver’s line of sight can be distracting and interfere with proper visibility.
- When damage from chips or cracks may interfere with ADAS sensors, the windshield should be replaced as even after repair, the change in visual clarity can interfere with these sensitive and critical safety equipment components
- Replace the windshield if there are any cracks on the inside of the glass.
Age/Condition of the Crack
Newer cracks are better candidates for repair, as dirt and debris haven’t yet settled into the damage. We recommend putting CLEAR Scotch Tape over cracks that are not in the driver’s direct line of site until a repair can be made. This will lessen the chance of dirt and debris contaminating the area to be repaired. Contamination can lead to dark, cloudy repair lines and reduce the resin’s bond with the glass and the clear inner membrane weakening the structural integrity of the repair.
Overview of the Repair Process
The repair process involves filling the damaged area with a clear epoxy resin, which bonds the glass, makes the damaged area less visible and restores the structural integrity of the windshield. Expert technicians use UV light to cure the resin, reinforcing the outer layer of the windshield.
Tips to Keep Existing Cracks from Spreading
Avoid sudden temperature changes, such as using hot water on a cold windshield, cold water on a hot windshield, or using a high heat setting for the defroster on a cold day. Definitely avoid the car wash when you have unrepaired windshield chips and cracks. In the warmer months, try to avoid parking with the windshield facing directly into the sun, or better yet, find some shade to park in. Sudden or widely fluctuating temperatures and vibrations from rough roads or speed bumps can cause minor cracks to expand into large cracks. Finally, keep the vehicle in a garage or carport when it is not in use to protect it from extreme temperatures as much as possible.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Contrary to much of the “advice” you will see on the Internet do not use superglue or other household adhesives, like nail polish, on cracks as they can make solid, structural repairs impossible. Instead, cover minor chips with clear tape (away from your line of sight) to keep out water, dirt and debris.
The Importance of Prompt Repair
Delaying repairs can lead to further damage, increasing the chance of needing a new windshield. Prompt repairs preserve the structural integrity of your windshield and can save you from higher replacement costs and the need for recalibrating ADAS sensors.
When in Doubt, Consult a Professional
If you have any doubt about whether damage is repairable, consult a reputable repair specialist for an assessment. And ask if they follow the Repair of Laminated Auto Glass Standard. Keep in mind that replacement shops have an economic incentive to encourage replacements. I frequently hear consumers that have been told that they must replace windshields if cracks are longer than 6-inches or longer than a dollar bill. In some cases, the number cited is as low as 3.5-inches. These are also the numbers often quoted by the car insurance companies. What they are really saying is that they won’t pay for repairs longer than that. The Repair of Laminated Auto Glass Standard establishes the recommendations and guidelines for what can and cannot be repaired.
Key Takeaways
Not all windshield damage requires a full replacement
Windshield crack repair is a cost-effective solution for small cracks, chips, and minor damage. Factors like crack size, location, and type determine if repair is the best option.
Act Quickly for Safety and Savings
Don’t wait to fix a damaged windshield. Prompt repairs ensure a clear view, maintain safety, and can often be covered by your car insurance if you have comprehensive coverage. Contact Bob’s Windshield Repair today for a professional assessment and trusted mobile service.
Since 2003, Bob’s Windshield Repair has repaired thousands of windshields, adhering to the highest industry standards outlined in the ROLAGS™ guidelines. Our team ensures that every repair meets applicable safety and quality standards. With over 20 years of hands-on experience, we provide expert assessments tailored to each customer, advising them on the most cost-effective and safe solutions for windshield repair or replacement, particularly for vehicles with advanced ADAS technology.
For a reliable assessment of your windshield repair needs in the Colorado Springs, Monument, Palmer Lake, Peyton, Falcon, Fountain and surrounding areas, schedule an appointment for our mobile windshield repair service today!
