If you’ve ever driven the roads around New Orleans — from the potholes on Magazine Street to the elevated stretches of I-10 — you already know how hard this city is on vehicles. Windshield chips and cracks are practically a rite of passage here. The good news is that getting your windshield replaced doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive, especially if you know what to expect going in.
Repair or Replace? Start Here
Not every chip or crack means you need a full windshield replacement. As a general rule, chips smaller than a quarter and cracks shorter than three inches can often be repaired quickly and affordably. Larger damage — especially anything in the driver’s line of sight, near the edge of the glass, or deep enough to compromise both layers of the windshield — typically requires full replacement.
When in doubt, have a professional take a look before assuming the worst. A quick inspection takes minutes and can save you money if a repair turns out to be sufficient.
How Louisiana Auto Glass Insurance Works
Louisiana is not a zero-deductible state for windshield claims the way Florida or Kentucky are, so your out-of-pocket cost will depend on your specific comprehensive coverage and deductible. Here’s what to know:
Most comprehensive auto insurance policies cover windshield replacement, but you’ll owe your deductible. If your deductible is higher than the cost of replacement, it may not be worth filing a claim. Check with your insurer before scheduling — in some cases, filing a small claim can affect your premium more than just paying out of pocket.
Always use a shop that works directly with your insurance provider. At Star Glass Inc., we handle the insurance coordination for you, so you’re not stuck navigating the paperwork on your own.
Get Your Windshield Assessed — Call or text (504) 368-8826, or visit starglass.com/auto-glass-pricing/
Why the New Orleans Climate Makes Windshield Care More Urgent
Heat and humidity are hard on auto glass. A small chip that might stay stable in a drier climate can spread rapidly when temperatures spike in a Louisiana summer. The combination of intense sun, frequent rain, and extreme heat cycling causes glass to expand and contract — and existing damage spreads faster as a result.
If you’ve been putting off addressing a chip because it’s ‘not that bad yet,’ the New Orleans summer is a good reason to stop waiting. A chip that costs $75 to repair today can become a full windshield replacement by August.
What to Expect During a Windshield Replacement
A standard windshield replacement typically takes one to two hours from start to finish. Here’s a general overview of the process:
First, the damaged windshield is carefully removed without disturbing the surrounding trim and seal. The frame is inspected for any corrosion or damage, then cleaned and prepped. New urethane adhesive is applied, and the replacement glass is set and aligned precisely. The vehicle should then sit for a drive-safe time — usually at least an hour — before you get back on the road.
We use OEM-equivalent or OEM glass depending on your vehicle and preference, and all of our installations are done to meet or exceed safety standards.
Choosing a Shop in the Greater New Orleans Area
There’s no shortage of auto glass shops in the metro, but quality and accountability vary widely. When evaluating a shop, look for transparency on the glass brand being used, a clear warranty on both materials and labor, experience with your specific vehicle make and model, and the ability to handle insurance claims directly.
Star Glass Inc. has been serving Jefferson Parish, Orleans Parish, and the surrounding greater New Orleans area for over 30 years. We’re locally owned and operated, and we stand behind every job we do.
Ready to Get Started?
Star Glass Inc. serves Jefferson Parish, Orleans Parish, and the greater New Orleans metro. Reach us any way that works best for you:
Call or text: (504) 368-8826 Email: glass@starglass.com Visit us: 1000 Westbank Expy, Gretna, LA 70053