How to Deal with Cracked Glass?
2 Answers
First, check if you have purchased glass insurance. If you have, you can file a claim. If not, the size of the crack will determine whether it can be repaired or if the glass needs to be replaced. Damage to car glass is mainly caused by small stones thrown up or spilled by vehicles in front or to the side, hitting the windshield. If the impact is not strong enough to shatter the glass but only causes a crack, the interlayer adhesive will split due to air ingress and atmospheric pressure, resulting in elongated or circular cracks. Whether the glass can be repaired depends on two factors: 1. The location of the damage point—only damage in the whitish area of the glass can be repaired. If it's in a pitted or black adhesive area, the glass must be replaced. 2. The extent of the damage—if there are spreading cracks within the main line of sight, it's recommended to replace the glass directly. If there are no spreading cracks and the damage points are few and small, repair is possible. If there are spreading cracks but they are not in the main line of sight and extend less than 10 cm, drilling and injecting adhesive to stop the crack may be an option.
I've been driving for over a decade and have learned to handle cracked glass with caution. The most common issue is windshield damage from small stones. For minor cracks, you can try using a glass repair agent yourself – there are DIY kits available online. Just spray the adhesive and cure it with a UV lamp. However, if the crack exceeds half the size of a credit card, don't attempt DIY repairs; head to a professional repair shop immediately. Delaying can cause the crack to expand, especially during rain or summer heat when the glass structure weakens, making it more dangerous. Safety first – avoid highways after noticing a crack as vibrations can worsen the situation. Check if your car insurance includes glass coverage; many comprehensive policies cover repair costs, saving you money. Park away from construction sites or gravel roads, and regularly wash your car while inspecting the windshield's edge seals to prevent water leaks and crack formation. These tips have saved me considerable trouble over the years.
