Rock chips are the most common type of windshield damage. They are caused by gravel or road debris hitting your windshield at high speed while driving. If not fixed quickly, these chips grow into severe cracks. Before your windshield becomes irreparable, bring your vehicle to an auto glass company for rock chip repair. Here’s what you need to know before scheduling an appointment.

Rock Chip Repair FAQ

1. What Is Rock Chip Repair?

When a rock or any hard debris strikes the windshield, it can damage the outer layer, resulting in a variety of patterns including a bull’s eye, linear crack, or star-shaped break. To prevent the chip from spreading, an auto glass technician will inject a polymer resin solution to fill in the cracks and breaks and use ultraviolet light to harden it.

2. How Do I Know Whether My Windshield Needs Repair or Replacement?

If you have a chip smaller than a quarter or a crack shorter than three inches, an auto glass technician can fix it. Otherwise, you might need to replace the entire windshield. Furthermore, cracks at the edge and those with spindly patterns or crushed glass aren’t easily remedied by rock chip repair.  

3. Why Should You Fix Rock Chips?

If left neglected, rock chips serve as entry points for water and dirt. Over time, this causes the damage to spread. Driving with a cracked windshield is also dangerous because of the weakened structural integrity. In a minor collision, the glass could shatter.

4. Will Insurance Companies Cover It?       

Many insurance companies have coverage for windshield repairs. If you have comprehensive insurance, some companies waive the deductible and pay for the entire cost of repair. Find an auto glass repair shop that will coordinate with your insurance company, saving you the trouble of filing the claim.

5. Is There a Warranty on Repairs?

Reputable companies offer warranties on their work, especially if the treated area expands or spreads. A good technician will discuss the risks of repairing impacted areas with veins branching out. Despite the risks, it’s still better to fill those tiny nicks before they spread and cause significant damage.   

Whether you need rock chip repair or windshield replacement, rely on the skilled technicians at Auto Glass Experts in Hastings, NE, to do the job right. With more than 40 years of combined experience, they offer the most reliable auto glass service in the area and even perform on-site service at no extra charge. Call (402) 463-0025 to request a free estimate or visit their website for more information.