Your windshield stands up to a lot. But a bad chip or a crack can really throw a wrench into your plans. Affordable vehicle glass is sometimes hard to come by, and replacing the entire windshield can be pricey. Below, we'll walk you through a few of the ways you can tell whether you'll need a full windshield replacement or if you can get by with a repair.

According to Newsday, windshield cracks that are under 12 inches long can generally be repaired without incident. Cracks running over 12 inches, however, should be replaced for the integrity of the overall windshield. Having your windshield replaced can be a hassle, but it's much better to be safe than sorry when it comes to road and vehicle safety.

Windshield Repair

Many times, minor damage to your windshield can be repaired without having to replace the entire windshield. Shallow scratches, cracks, and chips can usually be filled in by an auto repair shop without compromising the overall integrity of the windshield. One exception to this is if the damaged area obstructs the driver's view. If this is the case, always have your windshield replaced.

Windshield Replacement

If damage is too extensive, then it begins to risk the actual integrity of the windshield itself. In these cases, replacement is necessary for safety. Generally speaking, if a crack in your windshield is longer than a dollar bill, or extends to the outer edge of the windshield, replacement is necessary. Likewise, if a crack or a chip gouges out or otherwise breaks through more than half of the windshield's thickness, a replacement is necessary. Vehicles that have tempered glass instead of laminated glass for their windshields are also good candidates for replacement.

The question of whether or not to replace your damaged windshield is a serious one, in terms of both money and safety. Assessing the damage yourself can help you form a better idea of the extent of the damage and what the proper course of action might be. Qualified technicians can then give you more insight into the extent of the damage. Luckily, affordable vehicle glass is available here at #1 Lowest Price Auto Glass & Window Tinting. If you've been putting off a windshield repair or replacement, now is the best time to take that one off your to-do list.