Cracked windshields are dreaded by all drivers. Whether a wayward rock caused your auto glass to splinter, or a small chip has started to form in the corner, windshield repair or replacement is essential. The type of damage you’re dealing with will determine your timeline for car window replacement, so it pays to know what the most common types of cracked windshields are.

Here are seven forms of damage your auto glass may face:

• Chip: Most cracked windshields begin as a small chip. This flaw is normally caused by a small airborne object like a rock. When it hits your windshield at high speeds, it removes a piece of auto glass.
• Bull’s Eye: Also caused by flying debris, bull’s eyes are similar to chips. However, this type of windshield damage has a circular shape and is larger than the average ding.
• Edge Crack: You’ll see this type of auto glass damage within two inches of the edge of your windshield. Edge cracks are typically 10 to 12 inches long, and require immediate windshield replacement.
• Floater Crack: As opposed to edge cracks, floater cracks originate in the middle of your windshield—or, any spot that is more than two inches from the edges.
• Half Moon: Unlike chips and bull’s eyes, half-moons aren’t completely circular. They resemble a crescent and are typically caused by a small pebble.
• Star Break: As one of the most severe-looking forms of damage, a star break is distinguished by an impact point surrounded by a series of short radial cracks.
• Stress Crack: Not all chipped windshields are caused by impact damage. Stress cracks can occur when auto glass weakens over time, such as from prolonged sun exposure.

Regardless of how your cracked windshield forms, you’ll need it repaired quickly. Luckily, Capital Autoglass is recognized as Nebraska’s premier auto glass center. Located in Lincoln, this company’s technicians provide prompt attention for auto glass repairs and replacements. They will even come to your location with mobile service. To learn more about their windshield repair services, visit them online, or give them a call today at (402) 421-6653.