Everyone has been there; you’re driving on the highway when all of a sudden a pebble from on the road flys up and hits your windshield. You may never hear the pebble, but you certainly hear that loud noise. The first thing you do? Check to make sure your windshield isn’t cracked. Our fingers are crossed that there isn’t a chip or crack, but in the event there is, you should get that glass repaired immediately.

How is a Windshield Chip Repaired?

Windshield chips are fairly simple and quick to fix, even small cracks typically take no longer than an hour to repair. To begin, any lingering glass shards are removed from the chipped or cracked area. This step prevents any light reflection after the repair is completed. Next, any dust is cleared out of the chip so that it doesn’t become a part of the new windshield. The third step is to fill up the windshield chip or crack with clear solid resin. While the resin is curing, the experts will extract small amounts of air to prevent bubbling. Once your windshield expert is happy, they will get rid of any extra resin and start curing.

Why is it Important to Fix Your Windshield Chip? It’s just a Small Chip, Right?

While it’s only a small problem now, it can quickly become a bigger problem if it isn’t addressed. 

  • Small windshield chips turn into large cracks in no time

When you have a cracked or chipped windshield, pressure is not evenly distributed. This uneven distribution of pressure can cause what was once a mere small chip to billow into a full blown crack in your windshield. Major windshield cracks can sometimes be completely irreparable. This means, as opposed to fixing a small crack, you will need to replace the entire windshield.

  • Your view may be compromised

Having a clear and unobstructed view when you’re driving is very important for your personal safety as well as other drivers on the road. When you have a small chip in your windshield, it can be distracting to look at while you drive. Not to mention, a chip can block your view of the road depending on its location. 

  • Your chipped windshield degrades your car’s safety

A car that has been safetied for the road specifically checks the windshield. Any chips, cracks, or imperfections will prevent your car from passing safety, so why would you feel comfortable driving it on the road? If you were to get into an accident, the existing crack in your windshield compromises the structural integrity and can put your own personal safety in jeopardy.

  • Takes no time!

Repairing that chip or crack may only take an hour or so with the professional and cost you less than a full tank of gas. While needing repairs isn’t by any means ideal, it can definitely save you even more time and cash in the long run!

  • Is it illegal to drive with a cracked windshield in BC?

If you get pulled over with a chip or crack in your windshield, you could be looking at a fine of over $56 for not maintaining full visibility in your on road vehicle. Any chip over 40mm (4cm) in diameter, or over two small chips (20mm diameter). If the officer believes your vehicle’s windshield is too damaged, they may order your car off the road and hit you with a heavier fine.

Why Does Time Matter?

Okay, okay, you’ll fix your windshield but you shouldn’t wait. Not only are you allowing your crack to get bigger and chip to get deeper, but you may be allowing the chip or crack to collect more dirt and debris. When a chip has too much dirt or debris, it may be irreparable and have to be replaced completely. 

Getting your windshield glass repaired can be an annoying wrench thrown into your week’s plans. That being said, it is absolutely necessary to your car’s longevity, your safety, and the safety of other drivers on the road. Next time a pebble flies into your windshield, make sure you get the damage checked out and repaired as soon as possible.

How to Avoid Windshield Chips

The best offence is a great defence! Preventing windshield chips before they happen is one sure way you can avoid needing to repair your glass. Here are the best three ways to prevent windshield chips:

  • Take the highway less often

Each day a highway sees thousands of vehicles. Each car constantly picks and kicks up debris. When you take residential roads, they tend to be more open with more room for debris to settle. In the case you do take the highway, mind your distance. Especially behind larger trucks and vehicles.

  • Slow down

Watch your speed on the road, debris flies around a lot more when you travel at high speeds. At lower speeds, any debris that is thrown around is accelerating at a much lower velocity which will decrease the likelihood of encountering chips or cracks from debris.

  • Avoid gravel roads

Gravel and unpaved roads are completely made up of chip inducing materials. When you choose to drive on dirt and gravel roads, you are more likely to get chips in windows than if you drove on paved streets.

Author’s Bio

Nicole Howe is a content writer at BreezeMaxWeb. When she isn’t writing, you can find her walking half marathons, biking, or watching Raptors basketball!