Reasons to Get Stone Chip Repairs Done In Time
The glass windows in a car not only protect the passengers but also act as a protective layer for keeping the passengers safe from injury during accidents. Especially when it comes to the windshield, it offers structural integrity to the car. If the windshield is chipped, you must get it repaired right away, as even a small chip can cost you in the long run.
Here’s a look at some reasons why it is important to get stone chip repairs done without delay:
- Chips can transform into cracks quite fast
Small damages can spread and become bigger due to the increased pressure, whether it is windshield or other glass windows. This pressure can come from a car wash or a change in the temperature. It is to be known that chips that are less than certain inches wide can be repaired. However, if a chip transforms into a crack, you will have to get it replaced, which is way more costly than repairs. When small damages become big, they can impact visibility and make it unsafe to drive. It is best to get small chips repaired as soon as possible.
- Chips affect the structural integrity of the car
Delaying the windshield repair can increase the chances of damage. There is a risk of cracks spreading along with compromising the structural integrity of the windshield. The windshield plays a role in the structural strength of the vehicle. During an accident or crash, the windshield supports the roof and prevents the passengers from getting thrown outside the vehicle. They also help the airbags develop the right way. A cracked or chipped windshield will shatter easily in case of a collision as there would be no structural support.
- Fixing the chip is fast and won’t cost you much
When you hire professional auto glass technicians, they have the required knowledge, training, and experience to fix the chip that too within a few minutes. The repair cost can differ from one service provider to other, but mostly, it is covered by auto insurance. If you have comprehensive insurance, the windshield repair will be easily covered. The auto glass company that you choose will offer a quote for their services. In fact, good companies will go the extra mile and work directly with insurance carriers to take care of the claim process.
- Debris can make repairs complicated
If the windshield chip is not repaired in time, it becomes the reason for dirt to get inside, leading to additional problems. When dirt gets into windshield cracks and chips, the dirt inside glass can cause the resin to not hold as good as it should. Resin is designed for adhering to the glass and not the dirt. If resin doesn’t hold, the chip will start cracking. In this case, the windshield will need replacement. If it is not possible to schedule the repairs immediately, cover the chip with clear tape to keep the dirt away. Also, avoid using wipers as they can directly spread the dirt over the chip.
- You might be cited for a traffic violation
Driving with a chipped windshield is illegal and might result in a ticket. Laws in some states mention that one can’t drive with a cracked windshield.
- To ensure your safety
A small stone chip in the glass, especially the windshield, can obstruct your vision and create a distraction while driving as it distorts your view. If the stone chip develops into a crack because of frequent changes in the temperature outside or due to dirt and moisture on the surface of the stone chip, it will make your windshield weak, and the glass will break into pieces in case of an accident or collision. 90% of the stone chips are likely to develop into cracks in some time. To keep yourself and your loved ones safe, you must get the stone chip repair done as early as possible.
- Save time
Your time is precious and should not be wasted at any cost. Long repair jobs that keep you from utilizing your time productively should not be wasted. It is easy to repair fresh stone chips within 15- 30 minutes at a lesser cost. On the other hand, both repair cost and time increase when the damage becomes worse in the long run.
Considering the above-mentioned reasons, there is no doubt that you must never delay stone chip repairs. It can help in saving the huge replacement expense as it can dig a hole in your pocket. It is better to get the repairs done at the initial stage for a lesser cost. And not to forget, it helps in keeping you safe.
Just make sure that you choose a reputed service provider with trained and experienced technicians. Also, they should offer flexible services as far location and timings are concerned.