When you’re on a drive and a small, flying pebble makes a chip on your windshield, the first thing you’ll probably wonder is how long it would take you to repair it. You may even be tempted to ignore it and drive on, but that’s not a good idea. Even the smallest chip can turn into a deep crack if left untreated, not to mention the distraction it can cause while driving.
Fixing a chipped windshield takes about 15-30 minutes for every chip, depending on the size and type of chip. It will also depend on your skill levels and the prevailing temperature conditions. If you’re a first-timer, expect it to take longer. Remember, some chips can be so bad that it’s implausible to repair them.
This post is a detailed overview of the factors swaying how long it takes to fix a chipped windshield and what you can expect during the repair process. But let’s start with an emphasis on why timely chip repair is crucial.
Importance of Timely Windshield Chip Repair
Even the smallest chips deepen and widen into disastrous cracks when subjected to sharp temperature changes, bumpy rides, and debris impact. Other elements, such as moisture, humidity, and pollution, can also worsen the chips.
Chipped Windshields Are Safety Hazards
Driving with visible chips is hazardous and can lead to severe accidents. It’s a minor distraction that could lead to major consequences, especially when driving at high speeds or in challenging weather conditions.
In addition, if you wait too long before fixing the chip, it may become irreparable, and you’ll have to replace the entire windshield instead of a simple repair.
Timely chip repair is essential for your safety and financial well-being. Now let’s get into what affects how long it takes to fix a chipped windshield.
Can a Chipped Windshield Be Repaired?
As mentioned earlier, some windshield chips are so small you can barely notice them, while some are huge eye sores that will keep drawing your attention whenever you’re driving.
A chipped windshield is repairable if it’s shallow and narrow enough for the repair resin to fill in and bond properly. Some chips are too deep or wide to be fixed, and in such cases, it’s best to replace the entire windshield. The chip should not be deeper than the first glass layer, nor should it be wider than a quarter-inch.
Other Factors Determining If You Can Repair a Chipped Windshield
Besides the depth and width, several other factors determine whether your chipped windshield can be repaired. These include:
- Location of the chip on the windshield: Chips too close to the edge or in the driver’s line of sight can’t be repaired.
- Type of chip: Different chip shapes may require varying repair methods, and some may not be fixable.
- Windshield’s age and condition: More aged windshields or those with existing damage may not hold up well during repairs, making replacement a better option.
- Time elapsed since the chip occurred: The longer you wait to fix a chip, the higher the chances of it spreading beyond repair. It’s best to get it fixed as soon as possible.
If you find out it can’t be repaired, it’s time to replace your windshield so here’s more about how long it takes to replace a windshield.
How Long Does It Take to Repair a Windshield Chip?
It depends on several factors, including whether your initial assessment concludes that your chip is repairable. The average repair time for fixable chips ranges from 15 minutes to half an hour. What happens during that time?
First, the technicians clean the chip area and remove any debris or moisture. Then, using a special tool, they will inject a clear resin into the chip.
The resin seeps into the cracks and bonds with the glass, filling in any gaps and preventing further damage. Then, it’s time to cure the resin with UV light before rubbing off the excess resin and polishing the area.
After completing the curing process, your windshield should be as good as new! However, some chips may require more time or multiple rounds of resin injections to fully repair.
What Affects How Long It Takes to Repair a Windshield Chip?
1. Size and Depth of the Chip
Generally, smaller chips with shallow depths are easier to repair and take less time. Larger and deeper chips may require more resin or multiple rounds of repairs, thus taking longer.
2. Location on the Windshield
Repairing chips in the middle of your windshield is easier than those near the edges or corners. Chips in areas that are hard to access may take longer to repair.
3. Chip Type
Chips take different forms, such as bullseye, star, or combination. Some types, such as bullseye chips, may be easier to repair and take less time than others.
4. Environmental Factors
Extreme temperatures, humidity levels, or windy conditions can affect the repair process and potentially prolong the resin’s curing time.
Tips for Efficient Windshield Chip Repairs
- Keep your vehicle sheltered during the repair process so weather and the elements don’t interfere with the curing process.
- Read this post on large windshield crack repair.
- Get your chip repaired as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the higher the chances of dirt or moisture seeping into the crack, making it harder to repair.
- Seek professional help as DIY efforts can further exacerbate the damage and add unnecessary time to the repair process.
- Find out how long it takes to fix a windshield?‘
Why Choose Rite-Way Auto Glass for Windshield Repairs?
At Rite-Way Auto Glass, we understand the importance of efficient and high-quality windshield repairs. With over 75 years of experience in the auto glass industry, our certified technicians have the latest tools and techniques to handle any chip repair efficiently.
Quick turnarounds, coupled with our commitment to safety and satisfaction, make us a preferred choice for windshield repairs. Don’t let a small chip turn into an expensive replacement; contact us to do it the Rite-Way.
