Is Your Windshield Chip Repairable or Does It Need Replacement?

 

Not all windshield damage requires a full replacement. In many cases, a quick repair can restore strength and prevent the damage from spreading. Here’s how to tell the difference:

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Windshield Chip Repair Is Usually Possible If:

• The chip is small
  Smaller than a quarter (or a crack less than about 6 inches long).

• The damage is a simple type
  Common repairable chips include:

  • Bullseye chips

  • Star breaks

  • Small combination chips

• The chip is not in the driver’s line of sight.

• Repairs in the primary viewing area can cause visual distortion.

• The damage is away from the edge
  At least 1–2 inches from the windshield’s edge.

• The chip is recent and clean
  Dirt, moisture, or spreading cracks can limit repair success.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 When long crack windshield repair applies:

 

Even if your windshield chip has developed cracks that extend longer than six inches​ your windshield may still be repairable with our long crack repair service!

 

Some general rules for determining  if your long windshield crack or cracks are repairable.​

• Crack Length (Over 6 Inches): When a windshield crack grows longer than 6 inches, it is typically considered a long crack repair rather than a standard chip or small crack repair.

• Industry Repair Guideline: Under ROLAGS (Repair of Laminated Automotive Glass Standard) guidelines, technicians commonly repair long cracks up to about 14 inches in length when conditions allow.

• Edge-to-Edge Limitation: For a repair to meet typical guidelines, the crack may extend to the edge of the windshield, but generally should not run beyond the edge or spread extensively across the glass.

• Limited Crack “Legs”: The ROLAGS guideline typically allows up to three crack legs extending from a single impact point when evaluating whether a repair is appropriate.

• Every Windshield Is Evaluated Individually: Factors such as crack location, contamination, stress in the glass, and visibility area all influence whether a repair is possible.

• The Best Way to Know Is to Ask: Because many cracks outside the typical guidelines may still be repairable, the most important step is to reach out to us for an evaluation. Send us a photo or schedule an inspection and we’ll let you know if your long crack windshield damage can be safely repaired.

💡 Why Acting Quickly Matters

Windshield chips can spread due to:

• Temperature changes

• Road vibrations

• Moisture and dirt

 

Repairing early can save time, money, and prevent full replacement.

Not sure which option applies to you?

 

Our technicians can inspect your windshield and recommend the safest, most cost-effective solution. Contact us today for a professional assessment.