Windscreen chips—those annoying little marks on your car’s glass that show up out of nowhere. They might seem small, but they can quickly become a big problem if you ignore them. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about windscreen chip repair, why it’s important, and how the process works. Let’s dive in!
You might be tempted to ignore a tiny chip on your windscreen, but that’s not the best idea. Even the smallest chip can turn into a crack, and once that happens, there’s no going back. You’ll need a full windscreen replacement, which costs a lot more than a simple repair.
Windscreen chips usually occur when small stones or debris get kicked up by other vehicles and hit your windscreen with force. Even though the object may be tiny, the impact can cause a small chip on the glass surface. Other factors like hail or defective glass installation can also contribute to windscreen chipping. It’s important to note that while temperature changes or exposure to sunlight won’t cause new chips, they can make existing ones crack and spread if left unrepaired.
So, how exactly is a windscreen chip fixed? Let’s break down the process step by step.
When you take your car to a professional, the first thing they’ll do is inspect the chip. They check the type of chip (e.g., bullseye, half-moon) and how deep it goes into the glass. Some chips, like those that penetrate the windscreen’s laminate layer, can’t be repaired and require a replacement instead.
After the inspection, the technician cleans the damaged area thoroughly to remove any dirt, moisture, or loose glass. This is super important because dirt or debris can stop the resin from properly sealing the chip.
Next, the technician might drill into the chip to make sure any leftover debris is removed. Then, they inject a special resin into the damaged area. This resin is what fills the chip and stops it from spreading further.
Once the resin is injected, it needs to be cured. This is usually done using a UV light, which hardens the resin and bonds it to the glass. It’s what gives the repair its strength and durability.
Finally, the area is polished to make the surface smooth and to blend the repaired area with the rest of the windscreen. While a repaired chip might not be completely invisible, it’s usually hard to spot unless you know where to look.
You might have seen DIY kits for windscreen chip repair. While these kits can be effective for minor chips, they don’t always create the same quality result as a professional repair. Professionals use special equipment to create a vacuum over the chip, making sure the resin fills in without any air bubbles. With a DIY kit, you often have to manually push the applicator, and if you get it wrong, the repair might not last.
At Screensaver Chip Repairs, we recommend opting for professional service for several reasons:
We use specialized tools to make sure the repair is durable.
Our repairs come with a guarantee, so if anything goes wrong, you’re covered.
We can fix most chips in under 45 minutes, saving you time and hassle.
Q1: How long does windscreen chip repair take?
Most windscreen chip repairs take about 45 minutes. At Screensaver Chip Repairs, we aim to get you back on the road as quickly as possible!
Q2: Can all chips be repaired?
Not all chips are repairable. If a chip is located in the driver’s line of sight, it might not be safe to repair. In such cases, a replacement is usually the best option. However, at Screensaver Chip Repairs we are able to repair chips that other companies may not due to the tools that we use.
Q3: How much does it cost to repair a windscreen chip?
The cost can vary, but it’s usually much cheaper than replacing the entire windscreen. At Screensaver Chip Repairs, we offer affordable rates and high-quality service to keep your windscreen safe without breaking the bank.
Q4: Is a repaired chip completely invisible?
A professional repair can make a chip much less noticeable, but it may not be completely invisible. The goal is to seal the chip and prevent it from spreading, not necessarily to make it disappear entirely.
Q5: Can I drive immediately after a repair?
Yes, most repairs are ready for the road right away. The resin cures quickly under UV light, so there’s no long wait time.
Q1: What makes Screensaver Chip Repairs different?
We focus on providing fast, high-quality, and reliable windscreen chip repairs. We also offer a guarantee on all our repairs, so you know you’re in good hands.
Q2: Do you offer mobile services?
Yes! We understand that convenience matters, so we offer mobile windscreen repair services across Melbourne. We come to you, so you don’t have to take time out of your day to visit a shop.
Q3: How do I book a service with Screensaver Chip Repairs?
Booking a service is simple. You can either call us directly or fill out our online form with a photo of the chip and your location. We’ll get back to you quickly to confirm the repair.
Q4: What areas do you service?
We service Melbourne and the surrounding areas. If you’re unsure if we cover your area, just give us a call or check our website for more details.
Q5: What happens if the chip grows after repair?
All our repairs come with a guarantee. If the chip does grow or another issue occurs, contact us, and we’ll arrange a follow-up service.
Don’t wait to get that chip fixed! The longer you leave it, the more likely it is to turn into a costly crack that requires a full windscreen replacement. At Screensaver Chip Repairs, we’re here to help you keep your windscreen in top condition. Contact us today to book your windscreen chip repair service.