Houston, Texas, is a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant energy, economic opportunities, and, unfortunately, heavy traffic. As the city’s population grows, so does the number of vehicles on its highways and streets. With frequent traffic comes the inevitable risk of sustaining vehicle damage, particularly rock chips on windshields. This minor damage may seem insignificant initially, but prompt rock chip repair is crucial to prevent more significant and costly problems.
What is a Rock Chip?
A rock chip occurs when a small rock, debris, or object hits the windshield with enough force to damage the glass. While it typically starts as a minor crack or nick, it can expand into a larger crack due to temperature changes, road vibrations, or time. Houston’s varying weather conditions, ranging from sweltering heat in the summer to cooler winters, can exacerbate the problem by causing the windshield to expand and contract, making existing chips grow into larger cracks.
Why Prompt Repair is Important
- Prevent Cracks from Spreading: A small rock chip might seem like a minor cosmetic issue, but it can quickly become a significant safety concern. The vibration from driving on rough Houston roads or exposure to extreme temperatures can cause the chip to expand into a crack that spans across the entire windshield. By repairing the chip early, you can avoid needing a complete windshield replacement, saving time and money.
- Maintain Structural Integrity: The windshield is crucial to your vehicle’s structural integrity. It helps support the roof, protects passengers in the event of a collision, and ensures the deployment of airbags works as designed. A cracked windshield compromises this structure, putting you and your passengers at risk.
- Avoid Legal Consequences: Driving with a damaged windshield in Texas can also lead to legal trouble. The Texas Department of Public Safety considers obstructed views from windshield damage a violation, which could result in a ticket or failure during an inspection.
The Rock Chip Repair Process
Fortunately, repairing a rock chip is quick and relatively inexpensive. What’s more, many auto glass repair shops in Houston specialize in rock chip repair and offer mobile services, bringing the repair to your location for added convenience.
- Assessment: The technician will first assess the damage to determine whether a repair or replacement is feasible. Typically, a repair is possible if the chip is smaller than a quarter and not in the driver’s line of sight.
- Cleaning: The technician cleans the area around the chip to remove any debris, dirt, or moisture that may interfere with the repair process.
- Injection of Resin: A transparent resin is injected into the chip, filling the cracks and sealing the glass. The resin is then cured using ultraviolet light, hardening it into a durable material that prevents further spreading.
- Polishing: After the resin has cured, the technician polishes the area to smooth out the surface and improve visibility.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
In Houston, the average cost for rock chip repair ranges between $50 and $100, depending on the size and location of the chip. Many insurance policies cover the cost of windshield repairs, as it is cheaper for insurance companies to cover a minor repair than to pay for a full windshield replacement later. Some policies even waive the deductible for rock chip repair, making it an even more attractive option for vehicle owners.
Conclusion
Rock chip repair in Houston is not just a service, it’s a responsibility towards your vehicle’s safety and appearance. With the city’s heavy traffic, construction zones, and unpredictable weather, it’s crucial to address any windshield damage immediately. By taking swift action, you can keep your windshield in good condition, avoid costly fines, and ensure your vehicle remains safe to drive.
Get a rock chip repair quote today by calling us at (281) 777-6881 or click here!
