The automobile windshield chip repair problem with ignoring the damage is that it will grow worse with time. Replacements have their downsides as well. Besides spending up to $350, you lose the original manufacture seal. Many replacements are done incorrectly and can leak and crack. What is the alternative?
Park your vehicle in a garage or under a shelter. If possible, park your vehicle in an area where it will be insulated from the harsh environment. This will not only protect it from ice, but from falling limbs or other hazards this time of year.
Repair chips or cracks immediately: Debris, rocks, or even pebbles can cause small dings or cracks in your windshield. Though they don't seem like much now, it is imperative to get these fixed. If the problem is caught in time, these can be a simple inexpensive fix and a windshield repair is not needed. If not these cracks and dings will grow, greatly weakening the strength of your windshield and putting you in a dangerous and expensive situation. Even regular window check-up at an Ogden auto glass location is advisable.
Now you have 3 options. You can pay out of pocket, you can have your insurance company cover the cost, or you can do the repair yourself. The cost out of pocket will vary from $30-$60, depending on the company you chose. Filing with insurance is easy because it is no cost to you, and the auto glass repair company deals with the paperwork. You can also attempt the repair yourself, but if you do not feel comfortable, i would suggest calling a professional. There is a good step by step windshield repair Instructable available, as well as other information online.
A surface pit is a nick in the glass associated with normal wear and tear that does not penetrate to the plastic inner layer. This can be repaired if the damaged area has a diameter of not less than 1/8 inch.
Remember to make routine window glass inspections part of your total car maintenance plan. Following these simple tips will help your windshield stay strong and prevent the need for glass replacement in the future.