Windshield Chip Repair

When it comes to chips in your windshield, size matters. Generally speaking, a windshield with a chip less than one inch in diameter is usually a viable candidate for windshield chip repair. Anything larger typically calls for a full windshield replacement.

If you have multiple chips or a chip and crack from a rock, lean on your local Glass Doctor to assess the structural integrity of the windshield. As a rule of thumb, the sooner you seek windshield chip repair, the more likely the repair is to be successful.

Rock Chip in Windshield: When to Repair or Replace

While repairing small chips is often an option, some windshield damage requires a full replacement to ensure safety and visibility. Multiple factors determine if a chip might be too big for repair.

• Size: Generally, the larger the chip, the more challenging it is to inject resin and achieve a structurally sound fill. Chips larger than a quarter (around one inch or 25mm in diameter) are typically candidates for a full replacement.
• Multiple Chips: If your windshield has several chips, even if they're individually small, the cumulative damage can weaken the overall integrity of the glass. In such cases, replacement might be the safer option.
• Location: Chips located directly within the driver's line of sight can be particularly distracting and hinder safe driving. Even a small chip in this critical area might warrant replacement to ensure optimal visibility. Glass Doctor follows the ROLAGS Standard, Repair of laminated automotive glass standard. The standard prohibits repair in the primary vision area described above. The Primary vision area is defined as 6” from the center of the steering wheel, left and right, and within the path of the driver’s side wiper blade sweep.
• Severity: If the chip has cracks radiating outwards, even small ones, it indicates the damage is spreading and compromises the windshield's strength. In such cases, replacement is recommended.

Our Process for Repairing a Chipped Windshield

By providing detailed instructions throughout the appointment, The Glass Doctor glass specialist ensures a transparent and stress-free repair experience. You'll understand each step of the process and feel confident that your chipped windshield is being repaired with expertise and care.

Glass Doctor offers a fast and effective chipped windshield repair process to get you back on the road. Glass specialists:

The time it takes to repair a windshield can vary depending on the size and extent of the damage. Generally, simple repairs such as small chips or cracks take between 30 minutes to an hour for our Glass Doctor glass specialists to address.

Windshield Maintenance Tips & Tricks for After a Rock Chip Repair

Our glass specialists will handle the heavy lifting. After your windshield repair, it’ll be up to you to properly maintain it and exercise necessary precautions.

• Driving safely on gravelly or poorly maintained roads: Gravel roads can pose a threat to your vehicle's windshield due to the potential for rocks and debris to be kicked up by other vehicles or your own tires. Try to avoid tailgating, sudden stops, or turns, and reduce your speed when driving on these types of surfaces.
• Regularly inspecting for chips and cracks: Small chips or cracks can spread into larger fractures that may eventually require total windshield replacement. Routinely examining your glass for any damage can prevent it from growing into a larger issue.

How Pricing Works on Windshield Chip Repairs

The cost of a windshield chip repair depends on a few different factors, including the type of vehicle, extent of damage, and any advanced technology features your glass offers. While we can’t provide an exact quote without assessing your needs in person, we can guarantee that once we do provide a final estimate, that’ll be the price that you’ll pay.

Here at Glass Doctor, there are never any hidden fees or surprise charges upon receiving your final bill. If your vehicle requires additional services, we’re always upfront about the cost increase and obtain your approval before performing any further work.

Protection Plans

If you require a full windshield replacement, we’re happy to offer two distinct protection plans to cover customers in case of further damage.

• Windshield Coverage: This package is provided to our customers at no additional cost and offers unlimited repairs or a single windshield replacement within 12 months of the original installation date. Damage due to collision, vandalism, fraud, or acts of God are excluded, while labor, moldings, and adhesive will be an extra cost.
• Limited Windshield Warranty: With our Limited Windshield Warranty, customers are covered if they experience a leak or manufacturing issue that impairs vision while driving. It differs from our Protection Plan in that it does cover the cost of labor, protects against manufacturing defects that impair vision, and offers a lifetime warranty against leakage.

Why You Should Choose Glass Doctor for Your Windshield Chip Repair Services

With over 270 North American locations, there’s a good chance that there’s a Glass Doctor near you! Better yet, if you don’t want to come to us, we can come to you. Our mobile windshield repair service specialists can travel to your location to provide you with the same windshield repair expertise that you’d receive in-store. All of our auto glass repair service professionals abide by Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC) best practices, ensuring that you’re getting the best quality of repair every time.

As a proud Neighborly company, we’re pleased to offer our Neighborly Done Right Promise®. You can be assured your windshield repair will be completed to the highest standard on every occasion. In the rare case that it isn’t, reach out to us within one year, and we’ll come back out to make it right.

Call us at 833-974-0209 to request an estimate today!

Windshield Chip Repair FAQs

Can I fix my chipped windshield?

Technically, yes, but without specialized tools, it’s difficult to ensure the chip is sufficiently filled and that the glass is polished to a smooth finish. Additionally, large fractures or those near the edge of the windshield will almost always require the attention of a service professional.

Is it safe to continue to operate a vehicle with a damaged or chipped windshield?

A small crack might seem innocuous, but it can compromise the structural integrity of the windshield, especially during sudden impacts. Additionally, fractures within the driver’s line of view should always be handled immediately, as it can hinder visibility and jeopardize your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Is a windshield chip repair expensive?

Windshield repair costs significantly less than a full replacement. The repair cost depends on the size and complexity of the damage. Contact a glass service professional like Glass Doctor for a personalized quote.

Does my insurance cover a windshield chip repair?

Many comprehensive auto insurance policies cover windshield repairs regardless of any deductible. This means your insurance company will pay for the entire repair cost, as long as you use a certified repair shop. However, coverage can vary depending on your specific policy.