Should You Replace or Repair Auto Glass?
If you have a window or windshield that isn’t in perfect condition, it can be hard to know whether you are looking at a quick repair, or whether you need to start budgeting for a total replacement. Before you head to the professionals, here are a few tips for gauging what you may be in for.
When to Replace Auto Glass
If you have any of the following issues, you’ll likely be looking at a complete replacement:
- A crack that is over an inch long.
- A windshield that is pitted. This makes it unsafe to drive because it distorts the view and makes the sun glare into your eyes.
- A chip that falls into your line of vision on either a windshield or a window.
Depending on the type of car you have and what type of auto glass you are replacing, it could cost anywhere from $170 to over $300 to replace the glass. Your insurance may cover this if you pay for glass coverage.
When to Repair Auto Glass
If you have any of the following issues, you may be able to get away with a quick, more affordable repair:
- A chip in the glass that is smaller than a dime, and is not in your line of sight.
- A small crack that is repairable. Not all cracks are repairable depending on the circumstances. Sometimes even small cracks are indicative of bad damage that cannot be repaired.
In truth, unless the chip is so small that you’d barely notice it, it’s hard to say without seeing it if a chip or crack can be repaired. Your insurance company may pay for repairs in glass, or they may waive your deductible for small repair jobs. Repairs can cost nearly anything depending on the damage, but some may be as low as $40 or less for small chips.
The Best Course of Action
If you aren’t sure if you should repair or replace a windshield or window that has been damaged, the best course of action is to head to the professionals and have them take a look. At Shock Glass, we can offer you a quote so that you know exactly what you’ll be budgeting for before we begin the job. If you want to learn more, or you want to schedule an appointment to receive a quote, contact us by calling 303-730-2729.
