Edge crack. This crack starts at the edge of your windshield and moves toward the middle. This is usually 10 to 12 inches long forms immediately. This damage would require you to replace your windshield. Stress crack. A stress crack can form due to your windshield getting weaker over time. The hot and cold weather also contribute to the formation of cracks. For instance, if you park your car under the sun for long hours every day without any cover, then turn the air condition on as soon as you get in, this can stress your windshield and create a crack.
Some stress cracks can be addressed by repairs, but others require replacement in an auto shop. You will need a replacement if your entire windshield has weakened or is stressed.
This is when some tiny pieces of glass have chipped away over the entire windshield. This can be repaired but a replacement is recommended. Star break. A star break has an impact point with short cracks that extend from it forming a star shape. Sometimes these chips are noticeable when driving in direct sunlight as they can cause a serious glare.
However, I am just going off of your description and if you believe these chips are large enough to spread, cause a compromise in the structural integrity of your windshield, or distort your view while driving, then you should have the windshield evaluated in person by a reputable glass shop.
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Need customized help on glass? Ask Glass Detective. January 5, By: Katherine Coig. Most of the time, bullseye breaks do not require an entire windshield replacement unless there is dirt in the head of the crack that cannot be removed, or if it is bigger than one inch in diameter.
Star breaks and cracks are also caused by debris, and are characterized by several cracks leading outwards from the impact point of damage on the windshield; tending to resemble a star. If not repaired immediately, these branching cracks can spread even further across the windshield and require a windshield replacement. Combination cracks are breaks with multiple characteristics, such as a star within a bullseye crack.
This crack usually comes with extensive damage, often leaving chunks of glass missing from the windshield. Usually, these breaks are more serious and require windshield replacement, unless the impact point does not exceed two inches and is not near the edges of the windshield. This crack is caused by rapid temperature fluctuations-such as a cold car suddenly exposed to heat, or a hot car in the sun chilled by the air conditioner.
Stress cracks are usually straight and start at the edge of the windshield, and can easily compromise the integrity of the entire windshield. Replacement may be in order for this type of crack for a couple of reasons. If the crack originates from the edge of the windshield, it can make the entire windshield weaker and could be detrimental to safety. If the crack exceeds fourteen inches, it is time to replace. A half moon crack can be compared to a partial, or half bullseye.
The damage from a half moon break is usually not as serious, and will not likely develop or spread new cracks. These breaks are common and come along with general wear and tear of the windshield.
These cracks are not deep, as they do not penetrate the second, plastic layer of the glass. However, if more than four surface pits appear on the windshield, it may be time for a replacement. A replacement may also be necessary if a new crack develops near four inches a previously repaired crack.
Always have a professional assess the damage to your windshield as soon as it occurs for your safety, as well as to stop any further damage from occurring. A windshield repair should be at a low cost if handled quickly and effectively.
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