Types of Auto Glass Damage & How To Identify Them

There are several types of auto glass damage that can occur. Some common types include chips, cracks, scratches, and punctures. Most of these qualify for auto glass repair but which ones need a replacement?

Auto Glass Damage Types & What Type Of Repair They Need

Below are a list of the different types of auto glass damages and if you need a repair or replacement.

Auto Glass Chips

Chips are small, shallow damages to the surface of the glass. They can be caused by a variety of things, including rocks or debris hitting the glass while driving, or by impacts from other objects. Chips are typically circular or oval in shape and may be a few millimeters in size. Chips can be fixed easily and is the most cost effective to get replaced before further damage occurs. For more information about chip repair click here.

Cracks

Cracks are long, continuous damages to the glass that extend across its surface. They can be caused by a variety of things, including impacts, temperature changes, and stress on the glass. Cracks can be straight or curved and may be a few inches or several feet in length.

If your cracked windshield is less than a dollar, technically it would be repairable but we recommend a replacement as it might not be as durable if another object strikes it.

Scratches

Scratches are shallow damages to the surface of the glass that are caused by abrasive materials or objects rubbing against the glass. Scratches may be straight or curved and can vary in length and depth.

Auto glass scratches are almost always repairable, they typically are not deep enough to require a full replacement.

Punctures

Punctures are damages to the glass that go all the way through it. They can be caused by sharp objects or impacts and may be small or large, depending on the object or force that caused the damage.

Punctures will always require a full auto glass replacement, whether it's your windshield, back or side window a puncture cannot be repaired and you need new glass.

To identify auto glass damage, it is important to carefully inspect the glass for any chips, cracks, scratches, or punctures. It is also important to consider the cause of the damage, as this can help determine the extent of the damage and the best course of action for repairing or replacing the glass. Give us a call if you need auto glass repair services (941) 840-1944.