If you just got a chip in your windshield, you don’t want to ignore it. That little chip can quickly turn into a big crack, and nobody wants to deal with a full windshield replacement. The good news is, fixing a chip with Baytown auto glass repair is usually quick, easy, and much cheaper than replacing the whole thing.
But how urgent is it really? Well, that depends on a few things. Keep reading to find out when you should make that call to Joey’s Glass – your go-to for the best auto glass repair in Baytown. We’ll help you figure out the best course of action for your chipped windshield.
Does Weather Affect Rock Chips in My Windshield?
Summer Heat: Think about how hot your car gets sitting in the sun. That intense heat makes everything expand, including the glass in your windshield. This can cause that tiny chip to grow into a long crack – fast. Plus, going from scorching hot days to cooler nights makes the glass expand and contract, putting even more stress on the chip.
Winter Cold: Just like heat can make things expand, cold can make them contract. When water gets into that chip and freezes, it expands and puts pressure on the glass. This is even worse if you spray your windshield with a defrosting solution, which can corrode the chipped area and weaken the glass further.
Rainy Days: When it rains heavily, water can seep into the chip. If this happens during winter, a thin layer of water could even freeze and expand, making the chip worse. Plus, water streaks around the chip can make it harder to see clearly while driving, which is definitely not safe.
Dry Weather: You might think rain is the biggest enemy of a chipped windshield, but dry weather can actually be worse. When the air is dry, your windshield loses some of its flexibility. This makes the glass more brittle and prone to cracking, even from a small bump or change in temperature.
Fix Chips Quickly If You Drive Every Day
Where you drive and how often also makes a difference when deciding how quickly to fix a windshield chip with Baytown auto glass repair. If you’re a frequent driver, especially on highways or in heavy traffic, it’s best to get that chip repaired ASAP.
Stop-and-Go Traffic: If you’re constantly stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic, you’re more likely to get hit by pebbles and debris kicked up by other cars. These little projectiles can easily make that chip spread.
Highway Driving: Cruising down the highway might seem smoother than city driving, but those high speeds mean anything that hits your windshield packs a bigger punch. A tiny pebble can cause serious damage at 70 mph. The wind pressure at high speeds puts extra stress on your windshield.
What’s the Worst Place to Get a Chip on My Windshield?
Where the rock chip is located and how big it is can really affect how urgently you need to get it fixed.
A chip right in your line of sight is a big safety hazard. It can distort your vision and make it hard to see clearly, especially at night or in bad weather. Chips in your direct line of sight = critical!
Chips near the edges of the windshield are also a concern. These areas are under more stress, so a chip there is more likely to spread quickly and turn into a long crack. Chips near the edges = urgent!
Estimating Rock Chip Size for Baytown Auto Glass Repair
A tiny chip might seem like no big deal, but even small ones can grow if not repaired. Most windshield repair resins (the stuff we use to fill the chip) work best on smaller chips. If the chip is too big or deep, the resin might not be able to fully seal it, and the damage could still spread.
A good way to gauge the size is to compare it to a coin. Is it smaller than a dime? You might have a little time. Is it closer to a quarter? It’s time to call Joey’s Glass for fast auto glass repair in Baytown. Anything bigger than a quarter is getting into windshield replacement territory.
Fast Auto Glass Repair in Baytown for Windshield Chips
Getting your windshield repaired quickly not only saves you money in the long run but also keeps you safe. A clear windshield is crucial for good visibility, and a small chip can quickly become a dangerous distraction.
At Joey’s Glass, we make Baytown auto glass repair affordable and hassle-free. We’ll assess the damage, give you honest advice, and get you back on the road with a clear view in no time. Contact us now for a free windshield chip repair quote.