When to repair stone chip/crack on windscreen?

[Decolliber]

Small stone chip with crack about 1/4" long (only on outside, and does not go through to inside). Should I get it repaired or just leave it alone and watch to see if it gets bigger?
I once watched a stone chip and crack being repaired. The guy drilled a small hole to inject the glue. The result may have repaired the crack but seemed to make the damage more visible than before.
Is there a simple rule of thumb about when a chip/crack should be repaired and when it can just be left alone?
Is it normal for repair of crack to make it more visible?

[RickM]

John, It is normal for the repair to be more obvious or display less that perfect optical properties.

There are a few variables that influence the progress the crack makes. Location on the glass is one. There are different stresses that affect different areas at different times. The rule of thumb is to fix before it gets worse. For me...I'd be looking for a new windshield. Comprehensive should cover all or some of repair or replacement...depending on your deductible.

If it's for your Carrera be prepared to shell out a nice chunk of change for an OEM with built-in antenna. If you do a search you'll see that there are less expensive alternatives.

Good luck!

[vash]

let the repair guy decide. i think .25 inches is pushing the limit. but i would definately let them try. better to pay $40 now, and see how it looks than to cough up the big bucks up front.
just my two pennies...

cliff

[Decolliber]

Just paid $50 to local Auto Glass chain store to have it fixed.
They quoted me $510 for a new aftermarket Carrera windshield (with antenna), and will credit me the crack repair.
I seem to recall some people on the 911 tech BB claiming that aftermarket windshields are more likely to have visual distortion in them. Salesperson said unlikely, becuase they are all made by the same process and the aftermarket makers are often OEM suppliers anyway.

[Zeke]

Originally posted by Decolliber

Is it normal for repair of crack to make it more visible?

Do it as soon as possible and have someone do it that has the proper equipment and experience. This does not include all glass shops. Many glass installers don't have a clue. And it's counterproductive to their business of REPLACING glass.

I'm in the residential replacement window business. That is why I do not do repairs.