Descriptions of the Different Types of Damage That Can Occur to a Windshield

When a rock flies up and hits your windshield, there are different types of damage that can be done. Knowing what type of crack or chip you are working with can help you best describe the damage to an auto glass repair professional. This can help you and them determine if it is damage that can be repaired and, if so, how much it will cost. Here are the different types of damage that can occur to a windshield.

Crack

A crack is one of the most common types of damage that can occur to a windshield. A crack looks like a line in your windshield. It may be a small, straight line with one starting and ending point, or it may be a long windshield with several lines branching out from or extending from it. Generally speaking, as long as the crack is less than six inches in length, doesn't impede your line of vision while driving, and doesn't have other lines extending from it, it can be repaired.

Chip

A chip is another common problem with glass. If a rock hits the windshield, it may leave a chip behind. This means that a small piece of glass is actually missing from the windshield. If the chip does not have any cracks extending from it, is less than an inch in diameter and is not all the way through the windshield, it can be filled or repaired.

Bulls-Eyes

Another issue that can occur when a rock hits your windshield is a bulls-eye type of damage. You may see the point of impact, surrounded by a circular pattern of damage, much like a dart board. Unfortunately, most bulls-eye types of damage cannot be repaired. There are simply too many lines and cracks to fill in.

Stars

The last type of damage that can occur to your windshield is a star. A star is typically a small chip with multiple cracks extending from the chip to create a star or firework type explosion design. If the star is small, it can typically be repaired. However, if it is large, your windshield may need to be replaced. It is also important to note that if a star can be filled in on the windshield, it will always be slightly visible, more so than other repairs. This can affect your car's resale value so keep this in mind when deciding whether to repair or replace a windshield with a star.

There are different types of chips and cracks that can develop on your windshield. However, regardless of which type appears, you need to have it replaced as quickly as possible to prevent it from getting worse. If you are in need of vehicle glass replacement or repair, contact Only 1 Auto Glass in St. Paul, MN.