Can a Cracked Windshield Be Repaired? What Drivers Should Know

Cracks in your windshield can often show up without warning. You might notice one appear while you're on the road or spot it when walking back to your vehicle in a parking lot. Regardless of how it starts, a cracked windshield isn’t just a cosmetic issue, it can impact your safety on the road.

The Importance of a Windshield Crack Repair

The windshield plays a critical role in keeping drivers and passengers protected. It blocks rain, wind, and debris from entering the vehicle and also acts as a barrier during a collision. Many vehicles also have advanced safety sensors built into the glass that rely on the windshield staying intact and properly aligned.

Beyond that, the windshield helps maintain the strength of the car’s frame. In rollover accidents, it supports the roof and helps prevent it from collapsing inward. Damage to the glass, even if it looks minor, can weaken this structural integrity and affect how the car performs in a crash. Getting a windshield repair as soon as possible prevents the crack from getting worse, risking your safety and costing more money in the long run.

When Should a Windshield Crack Can Be Repaired

Not all cracks are the same, and whether a windshield can be repaired depends on several key details:

• Size: Smaller cracks and chips — typically ones shorter than a few inches or smaller than a quarter — are often repairable. Larger damage usually isn't.

• Depth: Windshields have two layers of glass with a layer of plastic in between. If the crack goes through multiple layers, repair might not be an option.

• Location: If the damage is right in the driver’s direct view or close to the edges of the glass, it may not be safe to fix. Cracks near the edge are more likely to spread and weaken the overall structure.

An experienced auto glass technician needs to look at the damage in person to make the right call.

Why DIY Windshield Repair Can Make Matters Worse

Repair kits for windshields are available at many auto stores, but using one isn’t a good idea. While they may seem convenient, they often don’t work as well as expected. Poorly applied resin can make the damage worse or leave the crack visible, which can still create visibility issues. If a windshield can be repaired, it's best for someone with the right tools and experience to do it the right way from the start.

What Happens During a Windshield Repair?

If the damage qualifies for repair, the process is usually quick and doesn't require removing the glass. A small amount of clear resin is injected into the crack or chip. This resin fills the damaged area and is then cured with UV light to harden and bond it in place. Once cured, the spot is polished to improve clarity and reduce the appearance of the damage. Most repairs take less than an hour and allow you to drive the vehicle again right away.

Windshield Crack Repair in Waco, TX and Surrounding Areas

If you're dealing with a cracked windshield in Waco, Bellmead, Robinson, Hewitt, or other surrounding areas, Arise Windshield Repair is a mobile windshield repair service that comes to you. We provide windshield crack repairs for personal cars, RVs, semi-trucks, and commercial fleet vehicles. Our technicians specialize in windshield repair and are available to help assess and repair windshield damage before it gets worse. Contact us today for a free quote!