How to Spot Small Chips Before They Become Big Cracks: A November Checklist

As the weather cools in North Texas, November is the perfect time to inspect your vehicle’s glass for small chips or damage before colder temperatures or road conditions exacerbate them. At Faith Auto Glass Dallas, we often meet drivers who put off repair work until a small chip turns into a full crack. A quick inspection now can help you avoid costly replacements later.

Why November Is the Right Time for Windshield Maintenance

• Temperature changes. The difference between warm afternoons and cool mornings causes your windshield to expand and contract. Even a small chip can spread into a larger crack under stress.
• Moisture in the air. Rain, frost, and humidity can enter small chips and make the glass weaker over time.
• Rough road debris. During the fall months, road sand, salt, and gravel are more commonly used. These can increase the chance of new damage or worsen existing chips.

By taking time in November to inspect your windshield, you give yourself the best chance to repair minor issues before winter conditions arrive.

November Windshield Inspection Checklist

Use this checklist when washing your car or filling up at the gas station. A few minutes of inspection can prevent expensive repairs later.

1. Look over the glass in bright light. Walk around the vehicle and inspect the windshield and windows from different angles. Focus on the lower center area where debris often hits.
2. Pay attention to edges and corners. Chips that form near the sides of the glass are more likely to spread due to the extra pressure at the edges.
3. Tap gently with your finger. A dull or hollow sound may indicate a weak spot or hidden crack inside the glass layers.
4. Use a small magnifier if available. Some chips are excellent and challenging to see without magnification. A close look can reveal cracks that are easy to miss.
5. Check both inside and outside surfaces. Sometimes the damage is easier to see from the interior of the vehicle when light hits the glass at a certain angle.
6. Cover small chips temporarily. If you find a small chip, place a piece of clear tape over it to prevent dirt and moisture from entering until a professional can inspect it.
7. Avoid sudden temperature changes. Do not pour hot water on a cold windshield or blast the defroster on high. This stress can turn a small chip into a large crack.
8. Skip high-pressure car washes. Water under intense pressure can force its way into cracks, causing them to spread.
9. Take clear photos. A close-up photo with a coin or ruler helps track whether a chip grows over time.
10. Recheck every two weeks. Set a reminder to inspect again so you can catch spreading damage early.

What Makes a Chip Repairable

Not every chip or crack needs a full windshield replacement. A professional can usually repair a chip if it meets these conditions:

• The chip is smaller than a quarter, or the crack is shorter than six inches.
• The damage does not reach through the inner layer of glass.
• The crack is not directly in the driver’s line of sight.
• The glass surface is clean and dry, with no dirt or moisture inside the chip.

If a chip is larger than these limits or located near the edge of the windshield, it may require full replacement for safety reasons. A professional inspection is the best way to know for sure.

How Chip Repairs Are Performed

Understanding how repair work is done helps you know what to expect when you visit Faith Auto Glass Dallas.

1. The technician cleans the damaged area and removes any debris or loose glass.
2. An applicator is placed over the chip, and a special clear resin is injected into the crack.
3. The resin is then cured with ultraviolet light to harden and bond the glass layers together.
4. Once cured, the technician scrapes away any excess material and polishes the glass to restore clarity.

A proper repair restores windshield strength and prevents the crack from spreading. In most cases, visibility improves, and the chip becomes barely noticeable.

Preventing Future Chips and Cracks

• Keep a safe distance behind large trucks or construction vehicles that throw debris.
• Replace worn wiper blades that may drag grit across the glass.
• Park under cover when possible to avoid hail or falling debris.
• Drive slowly on gravel or unpaved roads.
• Repair small chips as soon as they appear to prevent moisture buildup and the spread of cracks.

Why Choose Faith Auto Glass Dallas

At Faith Auto Glass Dallas, our technicians possess the expertise, tools, and materials necessary to perform lasting repairs or replacements. We scrutinize each vehicle to determine whether a chip can be repaired safely or if replacement is the better choice. Our goal is to save you money while keeping your vehicle safe and maintaining clear visibility.

We work efficiently with high-quality materials, and we stand behind every job we complete. Whether you need a minor repair or a full windshield replacement, our team is here to help.

Summary Your November Windshield Care Plan

1. Inspect your windshield regularly this month using good light and careful attention.
2. Cover small chips and avoid sudden temperature changes.
3. Recheck the same areas after a week or two.
4. Contact a trusted professional if you find damage that appears to be more extensive or severe.

By following this November checklist, you can prevent minor chips from turning into costly cracks and keep your vehicle glass strong for the winter season ahead.

If you find a chip or want a professional inspection, contact us at Faith Auto Glass Dallas today for expert service and honest advice.