You’ve probably seen it before—a tiny rock chip on your windshield that looks harmless. It’s barely the size of a dime, doesn’t block your view, and hasn’t spread. So… does it really need to be repaired?
The short answer is: yes, most of the time. Small windshield chips may seem minor, but they can quickly turn into large cracks if left untreated. At RAM Auto Glass, we’ve seen firsthand how fast a chip can worsen—especially during Ontario’s extreme weather conditions.
What Counts as a Small Chip?
Generally, a “small” chip is:
- Smaller than a loonie (1 inch in diameter)
- Not directly in the driver’s line of sight
- Not at the edge of the windshield
- Shallow enough that it hasn’t penetrated both layers of glass
If your chip meets these criteria, it may be repairable using professional resin injection. But waiting too long can make that chip ineligible for repair.
Why Small Chips Still Matter
Even tiny chips weaken your windshield’s structural integrity. Windshields are part of your vehicle’s safety system—they support the roof in a rollover and help deploy airbags properly.
According to the NHTSA, a damaged windshield can increase the risk of injury in a collision if it shatters or fails to hold during airbag deployment.
When You Can Safely Wait (and When You Shouldn’t)
You may have a bit of time if the chip is extremely small, hasn’t spread, and you’re not expecting drastic weather changes or long-distance driving. However, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and schedule a mobile inspection.
At RAM Auto Glass, we can inspect and repair small chips on-site in less than 30 minutes—and in many cases, the repair is fully covered by insurance with no deductible.
Ontario Weather Makes Chips Worse
Cracks spread faster in fluctuating temperatures. During winter, water seeps into the chip, freezes, and expands the damage. In summer, intense heat followed by AC cooling stresses the glass.
According to CAA and Environment Canada, freeze-thaw cycles are a top reason why small windshield chips grow overnight in Ontario.
Can DIY Kits Fix Small Chips?
Some small chips can be temporarily treated with a DIY repair kit—but these are rarely as effective as professional repairs. Air bubbles, poor sealing, and lack of curing strength often leave your windshield vulnerable.
We use UV-cured resin with proper prep and pressure techniques to make chips nearly invisible—and far more durable than DIY options.
Repair Now = Avoid Replacement Later
Repairing a chip early can save you hundreds. If it spreads into a long crack or reaches the edge of the windshield, replacement becomes the only safe option. Our mobile team offers quick, professional repair with zero travel required.
Not sure if your damage qualifies? Visit our FAQs page or give us a call for a free assessment.
Related Reading
- Is It Safe to Drive With a Chipped Windshield?
- How to Prevent Windshield Cracks From Spreading
- Auto Glass Repair vs Replacement: How to Decide
Don’t Let That Chip Turn Into a Crack
A small chip today can become a big problem tomorrow. RAM Auto Glass offers same-day mobile chip repairs across Vaughan, Mississauga, Thornhill, and surrounding areas. Quick, affordable, and insurance-friendly.
Book now or call (647) 777-7080 to schedule your chip repair today.