When you're traveling at highway speeds, it is not uncommon for flying road debris or gravel from a construction truck to strike your windshield and leave a mark. While you might be tempted to keep driving, auto glass damage can often pose a safety hazard and might require windshield repair or replacement to protect you on the road. Below are some signs that you should have a professional inspect your windshield.

How to Tell if You Need Windshield Repair or Replacement

1. Spreading Crack

Some chips start out tiny and remain that way, almost unnoticeable. In other cases, after the glass is exposed to sunlight, high heat, or temperature swings, the chip turns into a crack, which can spread across the windshield glass. Large cracks weaken the window's structural integrity, leaving you and your vehicle vulnerable if another object were to strike it. To protect yourself and any passengers on the road, a spreading crack should be repaired immediately.

2. Deep Chip

Even if the ding does not spread, its depth might weaken the pane enough to pose a safety risk. Windshields are designed with two layers of glass around a thin sheet of plastic. If the chip penetrates both layers of glass and the center plastic, you should have the windshield repaired or replaced immediately since the damage has likely destabilized the entire fixture. An auto glass professional can examine the chip to determine if it poses a threat on the road.

3. Obscured View

The location of the damage could also affect how dangerous it is. Small chips or cracks off in one corner of the windshield are often less serious. However, if it is directly in your line of sight, it might obscure your view of the road and other vehicles. If you find yourself leaning left or right or stretching to see around the marred glass, have it fixed immediately to keep everyone in your vehicle safe.

If your car needs windshield repairs, contact the experts at Auto Glass Company in Troy, MO. For more than 20 years, they have been known for their fast, dependable service and affordable prices. They offer a wide range of auto glass repair solutions to keep you safe on the road. Learn more about their services by visiting their website, or call (636) 697-7222 to schedule a windshield repair service.