Month: February 2025

Drivers in Northeast Oregon know that cracked windshields are a fact of life in this rugged region. Whether it’s the kicked-up gravel from backroads in the Grande Ronde Valley or the icy conditions along the Blue Mountains, windshield damage is often unavoidable.

With cold winters that cause cracks to expand and dry summers that bring dust storms, staying ahead of auto glass damage is crucial to safe driving in Northeast Oregon.

While not every driver will experience a damaged windshield in their lifetime, they are more common than you think, and they can be frustrating, especially if the damage occurs through no fault of your own.

According to one source, windshield repairs are the number one auto insurance claim in the United States.

While some people are liable to let a little crack or chip sit on their windshield, driving with a cracked windshield is incredibly dangerous. Here are two essential reasons why:

• Reduced structural integrity: A damaged windshield is less effective at protecting you in the event of a rollover accident.
• Impaired visibility: Even small cracks can scatter light, creating dangerous glare, especially during sunrise or sunset on Oregon’s winding mountain roads.

If you’re concerned about a chip or crack in your windshield, discover whether or not you can repair it or if it needs to be replaced.

Understanding the Difference Between Chips and Cracks

When diagnosing windshield damage, we classify it into two different categories: chips and cracks.

Most people can perceive the difference between the two as a chip tends to be superficial and resembles a blemish.

Windshield chips tend to be smaller and can be mostly repaired using a special resin fill that will block out moisture and debris.

A windshield crack will be long and narrow in width and can be more tricky to repair. Based on the location and depth of the crack, it can be filled with a resin fill, or it will necessitate windshield replacement if it jeopardizes the structural integrity of the glass.

Instances When a Windshield Can Be Repaired

When determining whether windshield damage can be repaired, we consider two factors: the location and depth of the damage.

Location is important because damage at the glass’s outer edges can impact the bond and force you to replace your windshield. Depth is just as important because windshield glass tends to be laminated, meaning it’s composed of several layers of glass wedged together. Therefore, a chip or crack that penetrates the bottom layers of glass will be impossible to prevent from spreading and make repair impossible.

With this in mind, there are generally two instances when a windshield chip or crack can be repaired:

• Surface-level chips: If the chip is only superficial, it can be filled with a special resin.
• Small cracks in the middle of the windshield: A crack that is less than four inches long and does not rest in the center of the windshield can be repaired.

Instances When a Windshield Needs Replaced

On the other hand, there are many instances where a windshield may need to be replaced due to the extent and location of the damage. Here are a few common scenarios:

• Chips extend to the bottom layers of glass: Chips that are too large or deep and cannot be filled with resin will require replacement.
• The crack is too long: A long crack is impossible to repair and will require replacement, as it can compromise the structural integrity of the glass.
• Edge cracks: Likewise, edge cracks that impact the bond of the glass will require replacement.
• Tempered glass damage: Unlike the laminate glass on your windshield, which has multiple layers and can be repaired, damage to tempered glass (i.e., side windows) cannot be filled and must be replaced.

Factors to Consider: Windshield Repair vs. Replacement?

To review, most auto glass repair shops will consider the following factors to determine whether or not a windshield needs repair or replacement.

• Damage Type: Windshield chips tend to be easier to repair, while cracks usually require replacement (depending on additional factors).
• Size of the Damage: Small chips (less than the diameter of a quarter) and cracks (less than 3”-4” in length) can be repaired, but anything bigger will require replacement.
• Damage Location: Windshield damage at the edge of the glass will almost always require replacement, and most damage in the driver’s line of sight will probably require replacement (depending on size).
• Depth of the Damage: Windshield damage that extends beyond the top layers of glass will require replacement, as the damage will spread further over time.

Why Prompt Windshield Repair Is Important

As we alluded to in that last bullet, prompt windshield repair is important as chips and cracks tend to spread with time.

After initial damage has been done, stress from road vibrations, rain, debris, and other environmental factors can penetrate the glass and cause damage to spread further and deeper.

Repairing windshield damage early can help you save money, especially if the damage can be repaired before replacement is necessary.

At Island City Glass, we offer mobile windshield repair services that even make it easy for you to get your auto glass repaired without having to take time out of your day to drive to a shop. Likewise, your insurance may even cover the damage, depending on your policy.

If you’re dealing with a stubborn windshield crack or chip on your windshield, contact the experts at Island City Glass to get it repaired in no time!

FAQs

How long does a windshield repair or replacement take?

Windshield repairs can take as little as 15 minutes to an hour to complete, while a replacement will require upwards of 1-2 hours, depending on if ADAS calibration is necessary.

Is it safe to drive immediately after a windshield replacement?

No, it’s essential to allow the adhesive to fully cure. Most technicians recommend waiting at least one hour before driving, though some adhesives require up to 24 hours for complete bonding.

Will my insurance cover windshield repairs or replacements?

Many insurance policies cover windshield repairs with little or no deductible. Replacements are often covered under comprehensive insurance but may require a deductible. Check with your insurance provider for details.