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Different Types Of Windshield Cracks and Chips


Windscreen cracks are more than just a nuisance, they can also be dangerous. There are over 7 different types of windshield cracks and if you don?t take care of them and get your windscreen repaired right away, it may not be long before you have to replace the entire windscreen.


If you have recently experienced a chip or crack to the windscreen of your vehicle, you might be thinking, what type of crack is it?


Is it repairable, or will I need to replace my windscreen?


And, how do I know if my insurance covers windscreen repairs?


We?ve compiled this list of different types of windscreen chips, so that next time you find yourself with a cracked windscreen in Manchester, or anywhere else in the UK, you know exactly what to do.


What are the Different Types of Windscreen Cracks, and How Do They Occur?



Bullseye Cracks


A bulls-eye crack is caused by a direct blow to the windscreen, usually from a rock or another form of object. This results in a cone chip in the glass, which then forms into a bulls-eye shape. 


Star Breaks


A star break occurs after a rock hits your windscreen. The glass cracks in the shape of a spider and in some cases can not be repaired.

 

Combination Breaks


A combination break is multiple cracks and chips in the windscreen which makes this type of crack difficult to repair. This type of crack often happens as the result of an accident.


Edge Cracks


A windscreen edge crack starts at least 2 inches away from the edge of the car glass and can run as long as 10" - 12". Any bigger and windscreen replacement is recommended.  


Windscreen Floater Cracks


It?s similar in size to an edge crack but starts farther back from the edge of the glass normally found in the middle windscreen.


Halfmoon Cracks


A windscreen halfmoon crack resembles a half moon shape. Like most cracks this usually caused by a stone or piece of gravel hitting the car glass.


Stress Cracks


A stress crack is the result of a sudden and extreme change in temperature. When this expansion and contraction happens constructively, stress cracks can form.


When Should I Replace My Windscreen?


Windscreens can typically last up to 5 years, depending on the quality of the branded glass. Car windscreen cracks happen more often when driving in snow or driving during winter conditions, when frost heaves the roads. Also, avoiding curb cuts (potholes) could help prevent some cracks altogether!


The list of different types of cracks above are all repairable, but may need to use different methods to fix the windscreen. When a windscreen chip or crack occurs on the outer layer, it's important to repair it quickly to prevent further damage and replacements.


Windscreen chips smaller than are an inch and cracks less than three, and the windscreen is most likely repairable. Crack chips any bigger, and you will need to get your whole windscreen replaced.


Does My Car Insurance Policy Cover Windscreen Repairs?


You may have seen the signs warning you about driving without insurance, but did you know that there are actually a few different types of car insurance policies? Not all insurance policies offer the same cover. When it comes to windscreen repairs, many insurers do cover for this type of damage. Although, you will want to check with your insurer first before making an appointment for repairs - just in case repairs are not included with your cover!


If your insurance policy covers the repair costs for you, you're in luck and will not need to fork out any cash from your pocket to get the windscreen fixed. However, this will also affect your no claim's bonus, so you might want to consider paying for the damage to be repaired yourself.


No Windscreen Repair Cover?


When looking to save your no claims bonus or your insurer doesn't cover windscreen repair, contact Windscreen Repair Manchester We provide same day 24/7 emergency services and repairs usually take no longer than 20 minutes.