Road Rocks: How to Go about Fixing a Chip in Your Windshield
It is an unfortunate fact that almost every driver will have to deal with at least one damaged windshield over the years. While those chips and cracks can be extremely frustrating, you need to take care of them right away if you want to avoid expensive problems later on.
Consider the Size and Extent of the Damage
You should have a damaged windshield repaired or replaced as soon as possible, but you might be able to drive with a small chip for a few days. That being said, it could be illegal to drive with a damaged windshield if the chip or crack impairs your vision. For minor cosmetic damage on the passenger’s side of the windshield, you probably have a week or two to address the issue.
Minor Damage
Every scenario is slightly different, but there are a few basic rules that most windshield experts follow. As long as the crack or chip is smaller than your hand, it can most likely be repaired. To repair a smaller crack or chip, the contractor will usually cover the damage with some type of epoxy or acrylic adhesive. Once the product has filled all of the crevices, the windshield is going to look whole again.
Large Chips and Cracks
While minor damage can usually be repaired, there are a few situations in which a driver must call a chipped windscreen replacement specialist right away. If the damage is larger than your hand or can be felt on both sides of the glass, then the entire windshield must be replaced as soon as possible. That type of damage will impact the structural integrity of the glass, and the windshield could fall apart when you hit a bump or pothole.
Who Pays for the Damage?
Your insurance provider might not cover a chipped windshield, but you should still call them to see what they suggest. Most auto insurance providers will help their clients pay for windshield repairs as long as a deductible is met. If the damage was caused by an object flying out of another vehicle, then you will need to contact an attorney to explore your legal options.
Ignoring a damaged windshield might save you a little money initially, but minor cracks and chips can quickly become expensive problems. An experienced specialist should be able to repair or replace your windshield in a matter of minutes, and many of those professionals guarantee their work.