Chip Repair and Windscreen Safety

Introduction

Have you been driving with a small chip on your windscreen, fearful that it may expand into a running crack along with the windscreen?

We decided to approach some of the experts for more information as to how and when such a chip can be repaired and when a windscreen would need to be replaced.

Is chip repair performed only on the windscreen or on all other windows as well?

Yes, Windscreen only. As long as the damage is limited to the outer layer of the glass.

What is the most important distinguishing factor between a chip and a small crack? 

"Chips" can be placed into 3 different categories:

1. Bulls-eye: No visible legs (small cracks) - mostly round or half moon in shape not larger than 10 mm Ø in A zone;
2. Star: legs (small crack lines) are clearly visible but are not longer than 25mm in the C zone;
3. Combination (star & bulls-eye)

"Small crack": is when a Star chip or a combination chip has a single leg that is longer than 25mm but does not exceed 40mm.

Could it be done on all vehicles or are there factors that might exclude it from being performed on specific vehicles or surfaces?

All vehicles have a laminate front windscreen consisting of 2 glass layers and the damages are limited to the outer layer.

What if there is a safety film installed on the windscreen?

Film on the inside -Yes; Film on the outside of the windscreen - No 

Can several chips be repaired on the same windscreen or the same surface?

Yes - more than 1 chip can be repaired - as long as it falls within the specification of each zone. 

What are the risks of having chip repair done next to the street instead of by professionals?

There may not be a warranty. 

Are there any signs to look for that a chip may become a "runner" and cause further damage?

No, not really. It depends on road conditions, temperature or a combination thereof.  

Are there specific spots on the windscreen where a chip is more dangerous to address or where it cannot be repaired?

Yes - see zones indicated above and below.

Is there any specific time frame for detection that a vehicle owner should repair a chip to ensure it does not escalate into something bigger?

Yes, as soon as possible.

What is involved in the process of repairing a chip?

A Repair system first creates a vacuum above the damaged site in the outer layer of the laminated glass, which extracts air, dirt & moisture from the hairline fractures. A specialised filling/bonding resin is pressed in and then released into the chip and hairline fractures and is drawn into the evacuated voids in the chip. The resin is then cured with a specialised UV light. 

How long does it take? +/- 15 min
How much does it cost? It is better to consult with your local dealer where the chip is repaired.

Chip Repairs and Windscreen Safety

As noted in our campaign repairing a chip on a windscreen saves you money and time. However, not all chips can be repaired:

The size of the chip

To be able to repair a chip on your windscreen, the size of the chip needs to be no bigger than 25 mm across.

The position of the chip

The impact point must be at least 3cm from the visible edge of the glass.

The Driver's line of vision

If the chip is in the driver's line of vision, the damage must not be more than 10 mm across. The driver's line of vision is an area approximately 30 cm wide and centres in the middle of the steering wheel.

NB: The width of the steering wheel impacts the width of zone A i.e. 290 mm / 29 cm or 300 mm / 30 cm

Your representative will inspect your chip to determine if it is repairable. If a chip is not repairable a windscreen replacement can be arranged via an insurance claim or a cash sale.

Risk

Repairers take every precaution is taken to ensure that a chip being repaired does not "run" during the repair process. This, however, does occur infrequently(+/- 5% of the incidents). 

Chip Repair Service

• Chip repairs can be done at most Glas Fitment Centres.
• If you are insured, the price for a chip repair has been agreed with your insurance company including mobile service. Most insurers do not require an excess of a repair as this saves everyone the cost of a replacement. Please refer to your insurance policy for the terms and conditions around your excess payment.
• Please ensure that you have your policy number, vehicle details and ID available for us to assist you in speedily processing the insurance claim.

General

• Any replacements of windscreens that need to be done will be subject to the normal terms and conditions of replacements and will be subject to either a quote or the applicable insurance pricing.
• E&OE (Errors & Omissions Excepted).

Also View

Road Safety and Your Windscreen

Windscreen Diagnostics: Should I Clean, Repair or Replace my Windscreen

Avoiding Windscreen Damage

Llumar Safety Film and Windscreen Safety