Pre-preparations before repairing a cracked windshield

We all have been victims of windshield damages at some point in our lives, whether it is driving through the heavy traffic of Bengaluru, or enjoying a road trip from Srinagar to Kashmir. You may have observed that driving with a cracked windshield affects more than just your view. Have you noticed that while driving with a damaged windshield, the lane departure warning in your vehicle gets faulty? That’s because windshields are essential components are do more than just protecting you from incoming debris and providing a clear view.

In this article, we will be providing detailed information about preparing for a damaged windshield repair.

Common types of damages on windshields

There are different types of damages that can occur on a windshield. Understanding how these damages happen will help you take better care of your windshield.

Star crack
A star crack occurs when a sharp object like a sharp stone or a tool hits the windshield. It is named after the star shaped fracture it leaves on the windshield. If the object hits with too much force, the star crack can chip off the glass and spread.

Edge crack
This is a crack that begins or ends on the edge of the windshield or the liner. This is an unstable crack that can quickly spread if not dealt with quickly. Edge cracks can be repaired if the length is small. However, if you have a long edge crack, windshield repair may not be possible.

Bull’s eye crack
This is one of the most common type of damage on a windshield. Occurring when roadside pebbles or small rocks dislodge on the windshield, it affects the outer layer and may cause chipping. A small bull’s eye crack can be easily repaired.

Stress crack
A stress crack occurs due to sudden temperature fluctuations. It may affect the outer layer, inner layer or both layers of the windshield. Like the edge crack, it is unstable and can spread quickly if left unattended.

Why are cracked windshields dangerous?

Any damage to a windshield will weaken the protection it provides to the vehicle and driver, decrease visibility, and compromise with its advanced driver-assistance systems ADAS.
A small crack or a chip might look insignificant, but it can reduce the structural integrity of the windshield. A bull’s eye or star crack can weaken the protection provided by the windshield and decrease the driver’s visibility. A stress crack may not affect visibility, but it can turn your vehicle’s advanced driver-assistance systems such as collision avoidance, lane departure warning, heated viper or windshield, etc., faulty. Chips that begin or end on the edge of the windshield can gravely compromise its strength. In such cases, even small collisions can increase damage your windshield.
That is why whenever you see a chip or crack, windshield repair or replacement is a must. While you may not know what sort of damage control is required, consulting a professional would provide valuable insight.

What to do in case of a cracked windshield?

In case of a cracked windshield, here are some important guidelines to be followed:

If the windshield has a minuscule chip or crack, it may not need immediate attention, but avoid sudden temperature changes on your windshield as it may widen the crack. For example, if your vehicle is covered with snow, do not wash it with hot water. The sudden temperature variation can cause a crack or widen existing damage on your windshield.

If you are in the middle of the road when your windshield gets hit and do not have access to a repair shop in the vicinity, decrease the speed of your car. Avoid driving on rough roads or construction areas, where the chances of further damage are high.

As soon as possible, find an available professional in your vicinity and consult them for a windshield repair or replacement.
Also, check your insurance policy to confirm if the windshield repair is covered in the cost. This will help expedite your repairing process and may help you save expenses.

The bottom line is, whenever you need a windshield repair or replacement, do not postpone the task and consult a professional at the earliest. Unless you have technical training and experience in dealing with windshield repair, do not attempt to repair any damage on your own. An improper windshield repair can cause grave consequences to your vehicle and your person.

In conclusion

Dealing with a cracked windshield requires technical knowledge, training and expertise. We, at AIS Windshield Experts, will resolve all your windshield repair needs. With more than 90+ service centres spread across over 50+ cities and several mobile service vans, AIS Windshield Experts ensures a quick and hassle-free experience. Get the chip on your windshield repaired in 30 minutes, and replace one in one hour. You can bid your worries farewell by taking advantage of our experienced, fast, effective and resourceful team of technicians.

But that’s not all, we at AIS Windshield Experts follows a 'Repair First' philosophy, meaning your windshield will not be replaced unless all other repair options are exhausted. Under our care, you only get high-quality world-class windshield, quick service and safety for you and your loved ones. Whatever your vehicle model, we maintain a multi-model inventory, so you don't have to search for your customised make. If that wasn’t enough, we are the only company that offer 1-year written warranty on workmanship and materials used.

So what are you waiting for? Contact AIS Windshield Experts today for all your windshield repair needs.