5 Signs You Need to Replace Your Windshield—Not Just Repair It

A chipped or cracked windshield might seem like a small issue—but knowing when it’s time for a full replacement can make a big difference in your safety and visibility on the road.

At Twin Town Glass, we’re here to help you understand when a simple repair just won’t cut it. Here are 5 signs it’s time to replace your windshield.

🚨 1. The Crack Is Longer Than 6 Inches

If the crack stretches longer than a dollar bill (about 6 inches), it’s usually too large to repair safely.

Long cracks can:

• Spread suddenly with heat or vibration

• Weaken your windshield’s structural integrity

• Increase the risk of shattering during impact

👀 2. It’s in Your Line of Sight

Even a small chip or crack can distort your view, especially when driving at night or in bright sunlight. If the damage is directly in front of the driver’s seat, most auto glass technicians (including us) will recommend replacement.

It’s not just about visibility—it’s about safe decision-making behind the wheel.

🧩 3. The Damage Is at the Edge of the Glass

Cracks or chips near the edges of your windshield are more likely to spread quickly and compromise the seal.

• Edge cracks can lead to leaks

• They affect the strength of the windshield

• Repairing edge damage usually isn’t reliable

A clean, sealed edge is essential to maintaining your car’s structural safety.

🔍 4. There Are Multiple Chips or Cracks

Windshield repair is usually limited to three or fewer minor chips. If you have:

• Several small cracks or chips

• Cracks that are growing or intersecting

• A windshield that looks “pitted” from road debris

…it’s time for a full replacement.

❄️ 5. You See Cloudiness or Internal Damage

Windshields are made with laminated safety glass—two layers of glass with a plastic layer in between. If you notice:

• Cloudy areas in the glass

• Peeling or bubbling around the edges

• Cracks that seem to come from inside the glass

…it means the inner layer is compromised. That can’t be repaired and needs immediate replacement.

🔧 Bonus: Your Vehicle Has ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)

If your car has features like:

• Lane departure warning

• Collision avoidance

• Rain-sensing wipers

…it likely uses cameras or sensors mounted on the windshield. Even minor damage near these sensors may require a replacement and a proper recalibration.

At Twin Town Glass, we handle ADAS recalibration in-house with every modern windshield replacement.

✅ When in Doubt—Let the Pros Check It Out

Trying to guess if a chip is repairable can cost you time, money, and safety. We make it simple:

📍 Stop by our shop📞 Call us at 207-743-6478🛠️ Schedule a free inspection

Let Twin Town Glass keep you protected and back on the road with confidence.