How can I fix my windshield chip myself?

Windshield chips are common, and they can happen to anyone. In fact, they’re so common that most people don’t even think about it. But when they do, they find that it’s not so easy to fix them on their own. That’s where we come in. We have a step-by-step guide that will show you how to fix your windshield chip yourself. From removing the chip to filling the crack with sealant, you’ll be able to fix your windshield in no time at all.

The Different Types of Chips

There are a few different types of chips that can afflict windshields, so it’s important to know the difference in order to fix them. Acrylic Chip is the most common type, and it results from airborne debris hitting the windshield and breaking off. These shards of plastic then get caught in the surface tension of water, and eventually cause a clear spot on the glass.

The next most common type is Concrete Chip, which happens when chunks of concrete fall onto the windshield. Both Acrylic and Concrete Chips can usually be fixed by removing the broken pieces with a razor blade or a vacuum cleaner, followed by a coat of sealant.

The final type of chip is Metal Chip. This happens when pieces of metal cut through the polymer layer that makes up a windshield’s surface. In order to fix Metal Chips, you’ll need to replace the entire window assembly.

How to Fix a Chip Yourself

If you’ve got a small chip or crack in your windshield, there’s no need to go to a mechanic. You can fix it yourself with some easy steps.

1. Use an ice pack to shrink the chip or crack. This will make it easier to repair.

2. Use a vacuum cleaner to suck up any loose pieces of glass.

3. Apply adhesive tape around the edges of the chip and hold it in place with a pin until the adhesive dries.

4. Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the circumference of the glass rod to drill holes near one edge of the chip, then insert the rod and twist it until it snaps into place. Sand down the surface if needed.

5. Use a glass cutter to cut off the chip and any excess adhesive.

6. Clean up the glass and adhesive residue with a can of compressed air and a damp cloth.

7. Apply a new layer of adhesive to the chip and hold it in place with a pin until the adhesive is dry.

8. Use a drill bit slightly larger than the circumference of the glass rod to drill holes near one edge of the chip, then insert the rod and twist it until it snaps into place. Sand down the surface if needed.

9. Use a glass cutter to cut off the chip and any excess adhesive.

10. Clean up the glass and adhesive residue with a can of compressed air and a damp cloth.

What to Do if the Repair Doesn’t Work

If the repair does not work, you may need to get a new windshield. If the chip is small, you can try to fix it yourself. Remove the chip using a glass cleaner and a cloth. Then use a sharp knife or a razor blade to remove the rest of the glass. Clean the area with alcohol and dry it off. Apply Gorilla Glass Repair Epoxy to the area and hold it in place for 30 minutes. Sand the area until it is smooth.

Conclusion

If you have a small chip on your windshield that is not affecting your visibility, there are a few things you can do to fix it yourself. You may be able to just use clear nail polish to fill in the chip, or if the chip is smaller than ¼ inch then you can try using a hair dryer and some Honest Amish Painters Tape. If the chip is larger or if it affects your visibility then you will need to go see a professional.