When Can You Have A Chip In Your Windshield Repaired?

Mar 26
09:07

2012

Danny Puetz

Danny Puetz

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When you hear that dreaded sound of a rock hitting your windshield, you are startled and then upset. Just because some states have laws where people hauling debris have to cover the debris in their truck does not mean the laws prevent rocks from flying all over the highway. Imagine how many rocks there are on the road and then think about how much you drive on a daily basis. You might actually be lucky that this is the...

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When you hear that dreaded sound of a rock hitting your windshield,When Can You Have A Chip In Your Windshield Repaired? Articles you are startled and then upset. Just because some states have laws where people hauling debris have to cover the debris in their truck does not mean the laws prevent rocks from flying all over the highway. Imagine how many rocks there are on the road and then think about how much you drive on a daily basis. You might actually be lucky that this is the first time you have had to deal with a chip in your windshield when you consider the odds. Just because you have a chip in your windshield does not mean you have to pay for a full replacement. Learn when a small chip can be repaired and do not spend a small fortune on new windshields when your old windshield is perfectly fine.

When Is a Chip Just a Chip?

When you call an auto windshield replacement company and you tell the technician that you have a chip they might ask you if the chip is just a chip. If you are not a windshields replacement specialist you may not know what a chip is defined as in the industry. Most glass companies have a general rule that a chip is any imperfection in the glass that is the size of a quarter or smaller. If you put a quarter over the chip you can get an idea of whether or not your windshield will qualify for repair.

When Will You Need to Replace Your Windshield?

If the chip is larger than a quarter, you may need to have the entire windshield replaced. In some cases, chips that are smaller than a quarter may not qualify for repair. If there are small cracks starting to spider out from the small chip, it might be too late for a repair. This is why it is important to have the chip looked at as soon as you notice it. If you continue to drive with a chipped windshield, you may end up driving over a bump and cause further damage.

How Much Will You Have to Pay For Chip Repair?

Now that you understand when you can and cannot have a chip repaired, you might be wondering just how much repair will cost you. Each glass company charges different rates for chip repair. They also use different prices based on the materials they use for repair. If you have comprehensive insurance, most insurers will pay for the chip repair for you to prevent you needing a new windshield later down the line. Call your insurer and see if they have a chip repair program.

You should never drive with chips or cracks in your windshield. Not only is it illegal, it is also not safe at all and can hinder your vision while you are driving. Call around to see what type of materials are used and how long the repairs will last and then schedule your appointment to get the job done.