Auto glass damage, such as a windshield crack, is often caused by flying pebbles, falling branches, and other airborne debris. Not only is it unsightly, but it is also dangerous. Cracks may obstruct your view and pose a threat to you, your passengers, and other motorists on the road.

Capital Auto Glass of Lincoln, NE, specializes in window and windshield repair and replacement. They share some of the factors you need to consider to determine if you can fix a crack or not:

• Size & Depth of the Chip: Most auto glass shops can fix cracks up to the size of a quarter. Windshields with cracks larger than a quarter will likely need to be replaced. 

• Number of Cracks: Your windshield gets a lot of abuse on the road and can accumulate a number of minor chips over time. These will eventually develop into long cracks if they are not fixed right away. If you see more than three cracks or chips on your windshield, technicians may recommend a total replacement instead of repairs.

• Location of the Damage: Where a crack is located will determine whether a windshield is a candidate for repair. If the damage is not in a critical area, it might be fixable, provided it fits the criteria for size and severity. Critical sections include the driver’s line of vision over the steering wheel and near the edge of the windshield.

• Type of Damage: Windshield cracks come in different forms. Some, like the bull’s eye (referring to circular or spider-web-like damage), star break (consists of short, radical cracks), and pit (a small piece of glass is missing) are easier to repair than others. Combination breaks, floater cracks, and edge cracks will require replacement.

Let Capital Auto Glass help you determine if the crack in your windshield can be fixed. Call (402) 421-6653 to ask for an estimate for their car window replacement and repair services. You may also visit their website to learn more.