Why the Type of Damage Matters
Not all windshield damage is the same. The type, size, location, and age of the damage all determine whether repair is possible or if you need full replacement. Here's a complete breakdown of every damage type you're likely to encounter.
Chip Types (Usually Repairable)
Bull's-Eye Chip
A circular impact point with a dark center. Usually caused by a round rock or stone. Repair works well when the chip is smaller than 1 inch in diameter. Leaves minimal visual mark after repair.
Half-Moon Chip
Similar to a bull's-eye but not a complete circle. Often caused by angular impacts. Repairable when under 1 inch.
Star Break
Multiple cracks radiating outward from a central impact point, resembling a star. Usually repairable if the cracks are short (under 3 inches each) and the central chip is small. Larger star breaks may require replacement.
Combination Break
A chip or crater with radiating cracks. More complex to repair. Success depends on how many cracks there are and how far they extend.
Crack Types
Floater Crack
A crack that starts in the middle of the glass away from the edges. Often begins as a chip. Repairable if under 6 inches. Spreads quickly in heat, so act fast.
Edge Crack
Starts within 2 inches of the windshield edge. These are typically not repairable — they indicate structural compromise and the windshield must be replaced. Edge cracks also spread faster than floater cracks.
Stress Crack
Occurs without an impact point — caused by extreme temperature changes (e.g., parking in intense Texas sun, then blasting the AC). No chip is present; the glass simply fractures under thermal stress. Replacement required.
Can't-Repair Situations
- Damage in the driver's primary line of sight — even after repair, minor distortion can remain.
- Multiple chips or cracks — more than 3 chips or crossing cracks typically mean replacement.
- Deep damage through both glass layers — if the inner layer of the laminated glass is cracked, resin can't restore it.
- Contaminated damage — chips filled with dirt or debris for weeks resist proper resin bonding.
When in Doubt, Get an Assessment
AutoGlass Rehab provides free damage assessments. Send us a photo or call (214) 328-0900 and we'll tell you exactly what you're dealing with and whether it's a repair or replacement situation.
Need Service Today?
AutoGlass Rehab comes to your location anywhere in DFW — usually within 60 minutes. Same-day appointments, direct insurance billing.