Windshield cracks may be something you’ve heard of happening to other people, but they are more common than you think.
Windshield damage is the most common auto insurance claim in the US.
Auto glass cracks and chips don’t just happen from rocks, but can occur due to vibrations on the road or poor installations.
States like Pennsylvania, which were voted as having the 14th worst roads in the nation, are known for their litany of potholes caused by the changing temperatures.
While a rock chip or a sudden crack can be a nerve-racking experience, repair and replacement are often much less expensive than you may think and are often covered by insurance.
In some cases, windshield cracks can even be repaired, but this depends on the size and location of the crack. Let’s dive further into what types of windshield damage can be repaired and what types require replacement.
Common Causes of Windshield Cracks in Northeast Pennsylvania
As previously mentioned, windshield damage is much more common than you think, and many drivers actually have some form of damage without their knowledge.
The most common causes of windshield damage in Northeast Pennsylvania include:
- Flying debris and rocks: Loose gravel, especially near construction zones or backroads, is a frequent culprit. Be wary when driving behind construction or agricultural vehicles, as they may be vulnerable to falling debris.
- Sudden temperature changes: Winter mornings followed by afternoon thaws can cause glass to expand and contract rapidly, leading to stress cracks. While most windshields are built to withstand this abuse, having even a small crack can spread to large cracks without even driving due to the temperatures.
- Hail or falling branches: Severe storms and high winds can send debris crashing into your windshield.
- Vehicle body stress: Bumpy roads or rough terrain can put pressure on the windshield over time, especially if the frame isn’t perfectly aligned.
- Existing chips: Surface-level chips that are not properly repaired can quickly spread beneath the surface into a full-blown crack that cannot be repaired.
Types of Windshield Damage That Can Be Repaired
Advancements in auto glass repair mean more types of damage are fixable than ever before. Generally speaking, smaller, shallower cracks can be repaired, depending on the location and type of damage.
We generally classify the following cracks as repairable, depending on their extent.
- Bullseye: A circular break with a dark center, often caused by a rock hit. Bullseyes are typically repairable if they are under 1 inch in diameter and don’t penetrate beneath the surface.
- Chip: A small nick or pit in the glass found on the surface. Chips are easily repaired if smaller than a quarter, but we caution against DIY kits.
- Star break: Cracks radiating from a central point that have little lines extending outward. Small star breaks are repairable if the diameter of the crack is under 3 inches.
- Combination break: A mix of bullseye and star damage, combination breaks are still repairable if the total size is under 3 inches.
- Short surface cracks: Cracks less than 6 inches in length can often be repaired unless they’re in the driver’s line of sight.
Scenarios When a Windshield Cannot Be Repaired
Generally, cracks that are longer than 6 inches in diameter cannot be repaired. The same is true of any crack that penetrates beneath the outermost surface of the glass.
Furthermore, location also matters greatly when determining if a crack can be repaired. Generally, edge cracks that compromise the structural integrity and bond of the windshield cannot be repaired, even if they are smaller than 6 inches.
Additional cracks that are recommended for replacement, as opposed to repair, include:
- A crack in the driver’s direct line of sight, where a repair may cause visual distortion.
- Multiple cracks or chips that intersect.
- The windshield’s inner layer is damaged (most windshields are made of laminated glass with multiple layers).
Each case is unique, which is why a professional inspection is recommended, and we caution so highly against DIY repair kits found online.
What Happens If Your Crack Can’t Be Repaired?
When a repair isn’t possible, the only safe solution is a full windshield replacement.
In Pennsylvania, many comprehensive insurance policies cover windshield replacement, often with no deductible.
So, while it may seem more expensive, insurance coverage can help offset the cost. Plus, modern replacements use OEM or OEM-equivalent glass that meets safety and clarity standards.
A new windshield restores your car’s structural integrity and ensures clear visibility in all conditions. Our technicians in Northeast PA offer both in-shop and mobile replacements to get you back on the road quickly and safely.
How the Windshield Repair Process Works
If your crack is eligible for repair, the process can be quite simple–most repairs take less than 30 minutes.
- Inspection: A technician evaluates the damage for depth, size, and placement to confirm whether repair is safe and effective.
- Cleaning: The area around the crack is cleaned to remove dirt, moisture, and debris.
- Resin Injection: Specialized resin is injected into the crack using vacuum-seal technology. This resin fills the gap and bonds with the glass.
- Curing: A UV light is used to harden the resin and lock it in place, sealing the crack.
- Polishing: The surface is polished to improve clarity and smoothness. While the crack may still be faintly visible, it will no longer be able to spread. This method prevents further damage, restores most of your windshield’s strength, and improves visibility.
Why Timely Repair Matters
Unfortunately, many people delay fixing a crack, especially if it seems minor. If you’re not seeing water seep through or it’s not obstructing your vision, what’s the big deal?
However, it’s essential to act quickly to stop a crack from spreading so that you can repair it while it’s more affordable to do so.
Here are a few reasons why you’ll want to address windshield cracks immediately.
- Cracks will spread: Even small cracks can expand with temperature changes or vibrations.
- You may fail inspection: Pennsylvania law prohibits driving with windshield damage that impairs visibility. Cracked or damaged windshields will typically fail inspection, making your car no longer road legal.
- It weakens the vehicle’s frame: The windshield supports roof strength and helps airbag deployment. Windshield damage compromises this structure, making your vehicle unsafe to drive.
- Repairs cost less: Compared to a full replacement, a quick repair is affordable and often covered by insurance.
By scheduling a repair as soon as damage occurs, you can avoid larger issues down the road and save money.
FAQs
How big of a crack can be repaired on a windshield?
Cracks shorter than 6 inches and chips smaller than a quarter can often be repaired, provided they’re not in critical areas like the driver’s line of sight or near the edge of the glass.
Is windshield crack repair covered by insurance in Pennsylvania?
Yes, many comprehensive policies in PA include glass coverage. In many cases, repair is free with no deductible.
Can I repair a windshield crack myself with a kit?
While DIY kits exist, they don’t offer the same quality or safety assurance as professional repair. Improper sealing can cause the damage to spread.
