Knowing when it’s time to replace a windshield is something that many auto owners struggle to answer. According to Glass.com, most rear and side windows are made of tempered glass, which typically requires replacement when damaged. What about the windshield? Some minor chips or small cracks are repairable, but the following are four signs that answer the question: When do I need to replace my windshield right away?

1. A Small Crack Keeps Growing

A small stone chip, hailstone, or another falling object could cause a relatively small crack in your windshield. Depending on its location, the crack might be hard to notice and easy to ignore. Unfortunately, small cracks often spread and become large ones. Depending on state law, the crack could require you to seek help to replace your windshield or risk being ticketed and forced to replace it, anyway.

2. A Glass Chip Extends at Least Halfway Through the Glass

A flying stone or another small object that is thrown by the tires of a vehicle in front of yours easily could cause deep damage to your windshield. Many chips are repairable with a substance that holds the damaged glass together and essentially replaces the missing bits of chipped glass. A chip that extends at least halfway through the glass weakens the windshield and forces an auto owner to replace their windshield right away.

3. The Windshield Develops Frost on the Inside

A cracked or chipped windshield could enable frost to form on the inside of the glass. Whenever a windshield or its seal is compromised, it makes it possible for very cold air and moisture to form on the inside of the glass. It also might allow condensation to form on the inside. Both can cause a significant loss of vision until the frost is removed with a defroster or a scraper. Unfortunately, it will return until you replace the damaged windshield.

4. Moisture Enters the Passenger Cabin

An especially damaged windshield could enable significant amounts of moisture to enter the passenger cabin. You might even see water dripping or seeping through the windshield or its seal and accumulating on the inside of the passenger cabin. That is a sure sign that you need immediate windshield replacement.

When you know it is time to replace your windshield right away, we can help. You can call, schedule an appointment online, or stop by for immediate service at A+ Plus Windshield Replacement & Windshield Calibration.