Chip Happens! | A Windshield Chip Repair Cheat Sheet

Got a chip or crack on your windshield? First of all – don’t panic! Not all damage means a full and expensive windshield replacement. At 5 Star Auto Glass, we believe a little chip repair goes a long way – saving you time, money, and a headache down the road.

But how do you know when a chip is worthy of fixing and when it’s time to say goodbye to your windshield?

We’re glad you asked!

Here’s a simple, no-nonsense guide to help you.

Hole-y Chip! | The 6 Common Types of Windshield Chips

1. Bullseye Chip | The Classic Circle
Looks just like it sounds – a round chip with a darker bullseye ring.
Good news? If it’s under 1 inch and not blocking your view, it’s usually repairable.

2. Half-Moon Chip | The Half Circle Hero
Like a bullseye, but just a slice of one.
Usually fixable if it’s under 1 inch. You get half the damage yet all the care.

3. Star Break | The Cracked Starburst
Think tiny cracks or “legs” shooting out from a central point – kind of like a star.
If it’s under 3 inches and not in your driver’s sightline, it’s usually repairable.

4. Crack | The Straight Shooter
A single crack running from the impact point.
If it’s under 14 inches and out of your way, it may be fixable.

5. Combination Break | The Mixed Bag
When a bullseye meets a crack or a star hides inside a bullseye, you’ve got some damage with a little personality.
If the main damage area is under 2 inches, we can usually repair it.

6. Surface Pit | The Tiny Nicks
Small pits or nicks that don’t go all the way through the glass layers.
Often repairable if tiny (think: smaller than 1/8 inch), but some are just part of windshield wear and tear.

Fix It or Replace It? | When It’s Time to Say Goodbye to Your Windshield

Sometimes, a chip repair just won’t cut it – and that’s okay! Here’s when you’ll need a full windshield replacement instead:

• Damage goes through both layers of the glass “sandwich” (glass-plastic-glass).
• The chip or crack is inside the windshield (on the passenger side).
• Multiple long cracks (over 6 inches) are spreading from one spot.
• Damage in your driver’s main viewing area (where the wipers swipe), especially if bigger than 1 inch.
• Cracks or chips near the windshield edges – risking your vehicle’s structural safety.
• Dirt, debris, or stains that won’t come out of the cracks or chips.
• Damage causing discoloration or harm to the plastic layer inside the glass.
• Cracks longer than 18 inches, even if they’re not in your direct line of sight.

Our technicians always inspect every chip and crack to make sure your safety is the top priority.

Don’t Wait – Fix It Today! | Leave Chip Repair to the Pros

Even an itty-bitty chip today can turn into a giant crack tomorrow – and nobody wants that. The earlier you get that chip repaired, the better the chances of saving your windshield (and your wallet) in the long term.

At 5 Star Auto Glass, our expert technicians know exactly what to look for and how to fix it fast and the right way. For trusted, affordable windshield chip repair in Calgary, come see us or give us a call.

We’ll get you back on the road with a crystal-clear view in no time!