Auto Cosmetics

I have a stone chip on my windshield, what do I do now?

Unfortunately, you now have a broken windshield.  If you do nothing, the damage will probably continue to spread.  To prevent* the chip from turning into a crack until it is permanently repaired, follow these tips:

• Protect the chip.  If the area is dry, cover the chip with clear tape.  This will seal out moisture and keep the area clean until our technician can make the repair.
• Try not to suddenly cool a hot windshield, or heat a cold windshield.  If you must use your defroster, use the lowest setting possible to clear the windshield.  In hot weather, don't wash your vehicle.  Pressure from power washers extreme temperature differences can immediately crack your windshield.  Also, getting any further liquid into the bread can contaminate the area, which can affect the appearance of the completed repair.
• Park in the shade if possible, or leave the side windows down slightly to avoid heat buildup.
• Don't use nail polish, super glue, or do-it-yourself kits to try to seal the chip.  These don't work and doing so will make the chip unrepairable.
• Don't apply windshield treatments like RainX or Aquapel until after the repair is completed to avoid contamination of the area.
• Don't use sunshades--the type that unfold and lay against your windshield, these will also cause a buildup of heat and could cause the windshield to crack.
• Don't slam the doors, trunk or hood to avoid excessive vibration to the damaged windshield.

 

*These tips can greatly reduce the chances of your windshield cracking.  However, the only way to totally prevent cracking is to have your windshield repair by a repair specialist as soon as the damage occurs.

If you are in the Akron/Canton area, fill out the form below with your name, address, phone and email address and we will send you a card of "chipsavers" that will protect the damaged area until our technician can repair your windshield.  You will be contacted within 24 hours to schedule your repair.  Also place a card in the glovebox of each of your vehicles in case of future stone chip damage.  When a stone damage occurs, as soon as possible place one "chipsaver" over the damage to keep dirt and moisture out of the break.

Please specify how many cards you would like us to send.