Most vehicle owners have at some point of their life experienced the chilling sound of a rock crashing into their moving vehicles windshield. In some cases, there is no visible damage at all and therefore no need for any repairs. But in many cases the windshield is left with a crack or even a tiny chip in the windshield.
Repair Chips Promptly
Even though the damage seems very minor, it is important to repair the chip as soon as possible. When dirt and water get into the chip or crack, it will make the repair less effective, and in some cases impossible. Weather, windshield wipers and even windshield washer fluid, which contains dyes, can discolor the area. If the repair is eventually done, the result will not be as clean as it would have been if done immediately. Instead, the area of the repair will have a cloudy or dirty look, because the resin will seal in that debris. It is important to repair rock chips and cracks as soon as possible in order to get the best results. Left alone, a chip can often burst into a pattern of tiny cracks, or even grow into one long crack. This can lead to much larger and more expensive problems.
How Rock Chips Are Repaired
Rock chips and cracks are in most cases are repaired quickly and at very little cost.
- First our technicians thoroughly inspect the windshield to ensure the repair is appropriate for the situation. We will identify the size and type of chip as well as the amount of dirt that might be in the crack.
- Second our technician will properly clean the area of the chip to remove any moisture and debris from the area of the chip.
- Once properly cleaned the chip is sealed with a special resin material which is hardened with ultraviolet light. The resin will dry clear and blends with the windshield glass. Excess resin is removed for a clean, smooth surface.
Windshield Repair Cost
Rock chip repair is generally very inexpensive and is also covered by almost all comprehensive insurance plans. This is because Insurance companies realize the larger problems that can arise from small chips to windshields. However even without insurance coverage most rock chips repairs can be completed between $40-$70 for the first chip and between $15-$50 for additional chips.
If you just experienced a rock chip to your vehicles windshield or if you have had rock chip for some time, give Mt Hood Glass a call today, 503-667-0290.