Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Repair a Rock Chip in Your Windshield

While a small rock chip or crack in your windshield might seem like a minor issue, delaying repairs can lead to larger problems down the road. Rock chips start as tiny blemishes but can rapidly expand, putting you and your passengers at risk and increasing repair costs.

In this blog, we’ll explain why chips spread and how to prevent further damage. We’ll also discuss professional repairs and why they’re essential for protecting you and your vehicle.

Why Do Small Cracks and Chips Spread So Fast?

Below are reasons why small chips and cracks spread quickly:

• Fluctuations in Temperature: When the weather shifts from hot to cold or vice versa, the glass expands and contracts. This movement puts stress on the damage, causing it to spread over time.
• Bumps and Vibrations: Hitting potholes or speed bumps causes vehicle vibrations that can worsen existing chips or cracks.
• Dirt Infiltration and Moisture: Dirt, debris, and water can enter the chip, weakening the glass’s internal structure and promoting expansion.
• Exposure to the Sun: UV rays heat glass unevenly, stressing the windshield and causing chips to grow into large cracks.
• Structural Stress: Collisions or heavy loads add stress to the windshield, which can enlarge existing chips.

Tips to Protect Your Windshield

Follow these tips to keep your windshield chip-free:

• Drive Carefully: Maintain at least two car lengths between you and the vehicle ahead when possible. Avoid gravel roads to reduce rock impact risks.
• Keep Your Distance: Stay well behind vehicles hauling debris or gravel.
• Avoid Drastic Temperature Changes: Warm your car gradually in cold months and cool it slowly when hot. This helps the glass expand and contract gently.
• Park in Shade: Keep your vehicle out of direct sunlight to prevent temperature-induced stress.
• Have Regular Inspections: Check your windshield regularly and after driving on gravel roads.
• Use a Cover: Windshield covers help reduce damage risks from debris.

Why You Should Hire a Professional to Repair a Rock Chip

Although DIY solutions exist, hiring a professional auto glass technician is essential. Professionals offer:

• Specialized Equipment and Materials: They use resin injectors and UV curing lights, which DIY kits lack.
• Proper Assessment: Only a professional can determine if the chip is repairable, ensuring your vehicle’s structural integrity.
• Proper Technique: Removing air and debris from the chip requires experience and precision to ensure the resin bonds correctly.
• Safety Compliance: Professional repairs meet safety standards, which is vital for your windshield’s strength.

Need a Windshield Rock Chip Repair in Edmond, OK?

If you live in Edmond, Oklahoma City, Piedmont, or The Village and have a rock chip on your windshield, contact Optic-Kleer. We offer insurance claims assistance and free rock chip repair for any windshield we’ve installed. Click here for a free quote!