Windshield Stone Chip Repairs
Chipped, Cracked or Broken Windshield? We Can Fix That! As soon as you notice any cracks or chips, the best plan of action is to bring it into the experts at Elite Auto Glass right away.
Having a cracked or chipped windshield can be a safety hazard!
Windshield chips and cracks should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible before your driver’s vision area becomes obstructed.
Windshield Repair or Replacement?
If your vehicle’s windshield gets chipped or cracked, should you repair or replace it? Windshield stone chips and cracks can generally be easily repaired if the damage is not extensive or covering a large area. Windshields can get damaged in a variety of ways but it’s important to always get a free consultation from the experts at Elite Auto Glass so we can help you determine if it can be repaired or if it will need to be replaced.
Regardless of where you live in Wisconsin or Illinois, your windshield will take a beating during the different seasons. A chip in your windshield could occur from many things including small rocks and other objects that impact your windshield causing nicks and small cracked spots in the auto glass. This often happens when the tires of other vehicles throw debris behind them, and many times from small rocks and stones falling out of dump trucks or other similar large vehicles. A chip or crack can be a very small spot that is not very noticeable, but most people know right away when they occur because of the loud noise it makes upon impact of the glass.
No matter what the cause, it’s important to repair or replace your vehicle’s windshield as soon as possible after it has been damaged to help ensure the crack or chip doesn’t spread and get worse. Whether you need to fix a small chip or ding or replace the whole windshield, Elite Auto Glass has you covered!
Repair Small Windshield Chips and Cracks
The good news is that smaller stone chips and cracks can usually be repaired by the professionals at Elite Auto Glass for a reasonable price. However, if the chip is directly in the driver’s line of sight, there are more than 3 cracks or chips on the glass, the damage is at the edge of the windshield or the windshield is old and covered with tiny dents, it should be replaced instead of repaired. The windshield serves as an important structural part in most vehicles and contributes to the overall strength of the vehicle — this is another important reason why we recommend repairing chips and cracks before they grow and your windshield must then be completely replaced.
If your windshield can be repaired, do it immediately!
A small chip or crack can quickly spread across the windshield from many things including if you hit a big pothole, drive on bumpy roads or make an aggressive turn. And, most states make it illegal to drive a car with a cracked windshield. Cracked windshield laws are some of the more important rules of the road, because they make sure that drivers have a clear and safe view from their vehicle.
If you’re on the road away from home, we can come to you! Take advantage of our FREE MOBILE SERVICE today.
Types of Windshield Cracks & Chips
Cracks and stone chips on vehicle windshields can come in all different sizes, shapes and types. Aside from regular cracks, windshield damage can be in the form of a crater, horseshoe, star or bullseye cracks.
A windshield crack is different than a chip which can often be repaired. There are many forms of windshield damage though you’ll most often hear “chip” or “crack.” A chip is a general term that refers to small damage on a windshield, whereas a crack of damage is a distinct line that runs across the windshield. If you have determined there is a crack that must be replaced, don’t wait. One of the most common problems with small cracks is that they tend to grow. Temperature plays a role here also, as changes can cause the glass to expand and contract. Contact Elite Auto Glass today!
Windshield Laws in Wisconsin Concerning Cracks, Chips & Defects
Driving in Wisconsin means you have to follow the rules of the road. In addition to the traffic laws, however, motorists are also required to make sure that their vehicle equipment meets the standards set forth for safety.
The Wisconsin laws concerning cracks, chips and defects in the windshield are as follows:
- Cracks that extend into the area directly in front of the driver are not permitted.
- No cracks may be inside the area directly in front of the driver.
- No cracks may extend greater than eight inches from the edge of the windshield.
- Chips and stone damage larger than half an inch in diameter are not permitted in the area directly in front of the driver.
- Chips and stone damage larger than 1-1/2 inches in diameter are not permitted on any part of the windshield.
- Etches, abrasions, and scratches that distort or block the driver’s view are not permitted in the area right in front of the driver.
Violations
Failing to comply with the above laws can result in traffic stops by law enforcement and subsequent fines for each offense.
If your windshield needs to be inspected or your wipers are not working properly, a certified technician at Elite Auto Glass can help you get back on the road safely and quickly so you are driving within the laws.
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Saturday: 8AM–12PM | Sunday: Closed
PHONE: (608) 201-8304
Contact Elite Auto Glass today with any questions or comments, to schedule an appointment or to request a FREE glass cost estimate.
