From parking outside during a hailstorm to driving on rough terrain, there are several ways car windshields can become covered with chips. Depending on the severity of damage, windshield repair can save the auto glass. Below is a brief guide to the types of chips that can be repaired and how to restore the damaged surface. 

A Guide to Windshield Repair for Chips  

Which Types of Chips Can Be Fixed?

Most windshield repair professionals can fix chips no larger than a quarter in diameter or just one inch wide. These repairs are easy to accommodate because the damage is contained to the glass surface. As a result, treating the small area won’t compromise the integrity of the rest of the glass.

Windshield repair doesn’t work for larger chips, however, as the fractures penetrate deeper into the glass. The embedded damage distorts the outer glass layer, plastic interlayer, and inside layer. If this happens, windshield replacement is necessary. 

How Are Small Windshield Chips Fixed?

Moisture can seep into the windshield and delaminate the center membrane. To ensure this doesn’t happen, visit a windshield repair service. There, a professional gently cleans the damaged glass to remove microscopic dirt particles hiding in the surface. Next, they administer an acrylic filler or epoxy adhesive to the area. Pressure is then carefully applied to make the material fill the chip or crack. Overall, the job should take a professional around 20 minutes to complete.

Although you can try to repair small windshield chips on your own, it’s best to leave glass repair to the team at TJ’s Auto Glass in La Crescent, MN. They have the tools and training to assess the damage and provide solutions to improve the strength, durability, and safety of auto glass. To schedule a windshield repair appointment, call (507) 895-1955. Visit the company on Facebook for more information on their services.