What To Do If A Stone Chips Your Windshield
If you happened to have a stone kick up and hit your windshield, leaving behind a chipped portion, you are likely to be concerned about the impact it had caused to the glass. Here are steps to take immediately after this type of incident occurs.
Check The Damage Before Continuing Your Journey
Right after the incident occurs, pull your vehicle to the side of the road to check on the amount of damage your windshield had sustained. If you notice there are cracks around or going through the chipped area, it is best to contact a towing service to bring your vehicle to a glass replacement facility rather than take the chance of driving any further. Cracks will escalate in length and depth rather quickly, especially if you are driving at high speeds. This could cause your windshield to shatter while you drive.
Contact A Windshield Repair Service Right Away
Instead of relying on products that you purchase to try to fill in a chipped area of glass, it is best to contact a professional to do the job. If you happen to apply products to the glass incorrectly, the chip may not be filled in entirely. This could put you and anyone in your vehicle at risk for injuries. The faster you make a phone call to a reliable service, the faster you will be able to get your vehicle back on the roadway in a safe condition.
Cover The Area With Tape To Keep It Clean
After you get an appointment for your glass to be repaired or replaced, it is best to cover the affected area with a piece of tape to help contain the flaw completely. This helps to keep it free of debris, which can affect the fill-in process when a windshield service applies resin to the spot as a repair method. If the windshield needs replacement, this step is not valid; however, it does not hurt to cover the area if you believe there is a chance that the chip can be filled in.
Take Action To Avoid Future Flaws
When you drive your vehicle, do your best to stay away from large trucks which could cause projectiles to fly toward you at a fast speed. Keep watch that you do not speed yourself, as this can make a difference in the type of windshield repair you need if something does hit your vehicle. Park your vehicle in a spot away from others, preferably in an open area. Avoid parking under trees or near construction sites
For more information, contact a local stone chip repair service.