It happens to almost everyone who drives a car. You are cruising down the road and hear that dreaded thwack sound, followed by the sight of a tiny pit or starburst blooming across your glass. It could be a small chip from a pebble or a noticeable crack that seems to grow bigger with every mile you drive.
Naturally, your first thought is, “Can this be fixed, or am I looking at a full Windshield Replacement?” At Fix It Fast Auto Glass, we get this question all the time. The good news is that many types of windshield damage can be repaired, which saves you both time and money. The key is acting fast and understanding the factors that determine whether a repair is possible.
We want to clear up the confusion and explain exactly when a crack or chip qualifies for a quick, effective fix versus when a complete replacement is necessary to ensure your safety and the structural integrity of your vehicle.
Understanding the types of windshield damage
Before we dive into the sizes, it helps to know what we are dealing with. Not all damage is created equal, and the shape of the break plays a big role in whether a repair will be successful.
- Bull’s-Eye: This is a clean, circular break with a distinct cone in the outer layer of glass, often caused by a round object like a small rock.
- Star Break: This damage has a central impact point with several short cracks radiating outward, resembling a star.
- Combination Break: As the name suggests, this is a mix of a Bull’s-Eye and a Star Break.
- Chip or Pit: A tiny piece of glass is missing from the surface, often less than 1/8 of an inch, with no significant cracks.
- Crack: A single line of breakage in the glass that can vary in length.
- Short Crack: Less than six inches.
- Long Crack: More than six inches.
The rule of thumb for chip and crack size
When considering a repair, the size of the damage is the most critical factor. Generally speaking, we use a simple benchmark that helps us assess the repairability quickly and accurately.
Chips and star breaks:
- A chip, which is often a circular or star-shaped break, is typically repairable if its diameter is no larger than the size of a Toonie (a Canadian $2 coin).
- In more technical terms, this is generally accepted to be about 4 centimeters (or 1.5 inches) in diameter.
- If the damage is a small chip or a star break (which looks like tiny legs spreading from a central point), and it fits within that Toonie guideline, we can usually inject a special, high-quality resin into the damaged area to complete the windshield repair.
Cracks (single line):
- The general rule is that the crack should not extend longer than approximately six inches (about 15 centimeters).
- Once a crack exceeds this length, it has a much higher likelihood of spreading further, and the structural integrity is significantly diminished, often requiring a full replacement.
Location, location, location: where the damage is matters
Size is not the only factor; where the chip or crack is located on your windshield is just as important in determining if a repair is possible and safe.
- The driver’s critical viewing area (CVA): This is the section of the windshield directly in the driver’s line of sight, typically an area about 8.5 inches wide and 11 inches high centered over the steering wheel. We will not repair any damage in this area if it is a crack or a chip larger than 3/8 of an inch, as the repair process may leave slight distortion or haziness. This minimal visual impairment is considered too much of a safety risk right in front of the driver’s eyes. Any damage that compromises the clarity here often requires a full replacement.
- Close to the edge: The windshield’s strength is highest around its edges, where the glass meets the vehicle’s frame (the pinchweld). Damage that is too close to the edge (usually within an inch or two) is dangerous to repair. The pressure applied during the repair process can actually cause the crack to spread into the laminate or the edge, potentially compromising the seal and the structural integrity of the entire windshield.
- On the inside layer: A modern windshield is made of laminated safety glass—two layers of glass bonded by a thin vinyl (polyvinyl butyral, or PVB) layer. Most road debris damage only affects the outer layer. If the inner layer of glass is damaged, a repair is generally not possible because accessing the damage would compromise the inner structural integrity of the glass.
Why is fast action critical for Windshield Repair?
If you have a chip or crack that falls within the repairable limits, the best thing you can do is call us right away. Delaying the repair is the number one reason a small chip turns into a massive, non-repairable crack. Learn more about why timely Windshield Repair is important
- Moisture and dirt contamination: Every day you drive with a chip, dirt, debris, and moisture work their way into the tiny fissure. This contamination makes it harder for the resin we use to properly bond with the glass, resulting in a less successful and potentially more visible repair.
- Temperature changes: The expansion and contraction of the glass due to temperature swings are the biggest enemy of a small chip. Running your car’s defrost in the winter or turning on the A/C on a hot day can create thermal stress that causes a small chip to “run” and turn into a long, irreparable crack in minutes.
- Vibration: Driving over potholes, speed bumps, or even rough pavement causes vibrations that stress the damaged area, encouraging a crack to spread.
Why choose Fix It Fast Auto Glass?
When you have auto glass damage, don’t try to assess it alone. The best thing you can do is bring it to the professionals at Fix It Fast Auto Glass. We have the expertise to accurately assess the size, type, and location of the damage.
We’ve been proudly serving Mississauga, Brampton, Oakville, Milton, Etobicoke, Toronto, and the GTA for over 20 years. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing top-notch auto glass repairs and replacements at the best prices. If you’re in need of windshield repair in Mississauga, we’re the experts you can rely on for fast, affordable service.
Here are some reasons why our customers trust us:
- Best price guarantee: We offer competitive pricing and a price match guarantee.
- 150+ five-star Google reviews: Our customers rave about our professionalism and fast service.
- Lifetime warranty: Our work comes with a lifetime warranty as long as you own the vehicle.
- Hassle-free insurance claims: We make insurance claims easy and stress-free.
- Mobile service: We come to you, no matter where you are.
- Premium quality glass: We use only the highest quality OEM or OEE glass and adhesives.
đź“ž Contact us now for a Free Quote
Fix It Fast Auto Glass Mississauga is ready to help you determine the best course of action for your auto glass needs. Whether it is a tiny chip or a long crack, we have the experience and professional equipment to assess the damage and provide the best solution, backed by over 20 years of experience.
Call us today for Same-Day Service: 416-662-8761
