When you’re driving and a rock flies up and chips your windshield, it’s a pain. You have to get the chip fixed before it gets worse. A small rock chip can turn into a large crack if not repaired quickly. The longer you wait, the more damage the chip will do and the more expensive the repair will be.

No matter if the rock chip is small or big, it should be inspected and fixed by a professional rock chip repair shop ASAP! Let’s take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions drivers have about rock chips.

What Are The Factors That Affect A Rock Chip Repair?

Size and Depth

The size of the rock chip is significant in determining if it can be repaired or not. 

In general, chips that are smaller than 3 inches (about the size of your thumb) can easily be repaired by your local auto glass repair shop, although it greatly depends on the type of chip you have, location, and the depth of the damage.

Because windshield repair technology is always advancing, it’s best to consult your local auto glass repair shop for an inspection. They will be able to inspect your vehicle and advise you on the best course of action for your particular situation.

Type of Crack 

There can be many different cracks that result from a rock chip, and technicians can repair some of them more easily than others. Here are some types of rock chips:

  • Star Break (short radial cracks coming off of the impact point). 
  • Bulls-Eye (circular crack caused by circular object).
  • Partial Bulls-Eye (the same as Bulls-Eye, but the damage is not entirely circular).
  • Crack Chip or Ding (single crack as the size of a quarter).
  • Pit (the easiest one to repair, and it happens due to a small piece of glass missing).

Drivers need to keep in mind that multiple cracks may be more complex to repair, and can greatly impact the integrity of a windshield.

Location 

Even adequate repairs may leave some discoloration, blurry or irregularity, and if the damage is in the driver’s line of view, the repair will reduce clarity and visibility. This is why if the crack is in the driver’s line of sight the windshield will most likely have to be repaired.

The exact placement of the crack on a windshield is extremely significant as well when it comes to repairing vs replacement. If the damage is located near the edges of the windshield, it could compromise the integrity of the windshield and therefore would need to be replaced.

Why Is A Cracked Windshield Dangerous?

Rock chips are extremely inconvenient, and there is no doubt about it. With that said, people should make rock chip repair a priority and get it fixed ASAP. The longer a driver waits, the more likely the crack is to extend. Dirt collecting within the crack can also make it more challenging to complete a successful repair. Even if a rock chip grows into a full-fledged crack, drivers should still have their windshield replaced asap. Here’s why:

A Cracked Windshield Makes Accidents More Dangerous. 

  • The windshield of a car greatly contributes to the structural safety of a vehicle.
  • A cracked windshield can raise the probability of a severe injury or maybe death in the event of an accident.

A Cracked Windshield Is Distracting.

  • Cracks in the glass can reflect lights into drivers’ eyes, distracting their view or even blinding it.
  • Not to mention, police officers can ticket drivers that drive cars with a cracked windshield.

How long Does Rock Chip Repair Take? 

The standard fix of a single chip typically takes approximately 10-15 minutes. 

In contrast, more complex damage and cracks may require more time. Other factors such as “busyness” can influence the amount of time it takes for a shop to fix a cracked windshield as well.

Have a Crack on Your Windshield? Call Collision Auto Glass & Calibration Today!

Whether it is a rock chip repair or auto glass replacement Collision Auto Glass will rise above the industry’s highest installation standards. There’s no reason to wait and every reason to choose our fast, affordable chip repair services. Don’t replace your windshield when you don’t have to. We make repairs easy in Portland, and we can come to you. Call or contact us today.

CID#: 13824994568758034170