Is My Windscreen Chip Repairable?
Posted in Bigbox Service Tips
Published Thu Aug 14 2025
Is My Windscreen Chip Repairable?
There’s a familiar sound no driver wants to hear: a sharp ping followed by the sickening sight of a small chip or crack in their windscreen. It’s an annoying and often worrying occurrence. The good news is, not all windscreen damage requires a full replacement. But how do you know if your chip can be repaired? With this blog, we're going to help you navigate this common problem.
The Repair vs. Replace Dilemma
A chip repair is not only more convenient but also significantly more affordable than a full windscreen replacement. It involves injecting a special resin into the damaged area, which then hardens to restore the windscreen's structural integrity and optical clarity. This process stops the damage from spreading and prevents the need for a more expensive replacement down the line.
However, not all damage is a good candidate for this quick fix. The decision to repair or replace depends on three key factors:
1. The Size of the Damage
This is the most critical factor. Generally speaking, a chip can be repaired if it is:
- Smaller than 10mm. This is a good rule of thumb. If the chip is larger than this, the repair may not be strong enough to prevent the crack from spreading under pressure and temperature changes.
2. The Type of Damage
Not all chips are created equal. The most common types of damage that are repairable include:
- Bullseye: A circular break with a distinct point of impact.
- Star Break: A central impact point with several small cracks radiating outwards.
- Combination Break: A mix of different chip types.
Long cracks (typically longer than 7-8cm) and complex, web-like breaks are usually not good candidates for a successful repair.
3. The Location of the Damage
Where the chip is located on your windscreen is just as important as its size and type. A chip is usually not repairable if it's:
- In the driver's line of sight: Even a perfectly repaired chip can leave a slight distortion, which could obstruct your view and pose a safety risk. For this reason, most repair companies and insurance providers will insist on a replacement.
- Near the edge of the windscreen: The edges of the windscreen are under the most stress. A repair in this area may not hold and could compromise the structural integrity of the entire windscreen, which is a crucial safety component of your car.
- Over a pre-existing crack: A chip that has already started to spiderweb into a longer crack cannot be repaired effectively.
My Chip is Repairable What Now?
If you've assessed your chip and believe it's a good candidate for a repair, don't wait! A small chip can easily turn into a large crack due to changes in temperature, road vibrations, or even a sudden impact. Getting it repaired quickly will save you money and hassle in the long run.
The best course of action is to:
- Cover the damage: Place a small piece of clear tape over the chip to prevent dirt and moisture from getting in. This will ensure a cleaner and more successful repair.
- Contact a professional: A professional technician can give you a definitive answer and perform a high-quality repair that will last. Many repairs can be done in under an hour!
In Summary: The Quick Checklist
- Is it smaller than a 10mm?
- Is it a simple chip (bullseye or star break)?
- Is it not in the driver's direct line of sight or near the edge of the windscreen?
If you answered yes to these questions, chances are your windscreen chip can be repaired!
Here at Big Box Cars, we understand the importance of a safe and clear windscreen. If you have any concerns about your vehicle's windscreen or require a professional assessment, don't hesitate to reach out to our service department. We're here to help keep you safe on the road.
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