Sometimes chips and cracks can be repaired to ensure they do not spread across the whole windscreen, but it depends on several factors. Our technician can inspect the damage and the age of the windscreen to determine if repair or replacement is the best option in your case.
The size and depth of the chip or crack help determine if repairs are possible. Typically chips less than a couple of centimetres in diameter and cracks less than 7 or 8 cm can be repaired, but other factors need to be considered. For example, today's technology makes it possible to restore much longer cracks, but it still might not be the safest option.
Cracks and chips have different characteristics making some easier to repair. A star break occurs when a chip has cracks that radiate out from the centre. An impact from a circular object can create a bull's eye where circular cracks emanate from the centre or a half bull's eye that is crescent moon shaped. A small rock can cause a pit without cracks, or a variety of crack patterns can develop. Multiple cracks are harder to repair.
The location of the damage is essential in determining if repair is possible for a couple of reasons. Repair work doesn't make a chip or crack disappear so if it is in the line of sight of the driver, replacement should be considered. Damage near the edge of the windscreen can also compromise the safety of the passengers. If the technician can't see the whole crack, it can't be repaired.
When you get a chip or crack you want to contact us a soon as possible because damage can spread because of temperature changes or pressure on the windscreen. Damage that can be a simple windscreen repair in Ulverstone can turn into a replacement quickly.