Driving on the freeway, anything can happen. Unexpected debris comes flying from out of nowhere and hits your car windshield. Now it is another item on your to-do list that you just did not need. Waiting in the repair shop for the auto glass to be replaced or having to leave your car for a while to get it replaced are no fun. However, there are solutions. Insurance makes the experience a little more bearable.

Regardless of its' location, if the chip is a lot bigger than 3 inches than most glass company firms will tell you that you need to replace it. If the chip is smaller than that, it can usually be fixed. The important thing is that you do not get talked into replacing your windshield when it is not necessary. If you suspect that a simple front window repair job would suffice, get at least 3-5 opinions before making the final call.



Park your vehicle in a garage or under a shelter. If possible, park your vehicle in an area where it will be insulated from the harsh environment. This will not only protect it from ice, but from falling limbs or other hazards this time of year.

Check for irregularities. If you're at the windshield replacement or rear of the car, look along the car to see if there are small dents. These can be seen as distortions in the reflection. If the paint is not smooth in one place, then this could be a place where there has been some damage. Dents as large as a coin can be restored by a panel beater. Dents that are not thoroughly repaired are often filled with polyester resin or fibreglass paste. Tap the surface, or go along it with a magnet. Know whether the panel is made of steel, not plastic, fibreglass or aluminum. If there are places where the magnet will not adhere, then in all likelihood, the panel has been repaired. Ask the owner why the part has been repainted?

Unfortunately, not all windshield chips are created equal. There are four main types of chips: star break, combo break, partial bullseye, and bullseye. Each one may spread differently or at different speeds, so it's important to take your car to an expert as soon as possible to determine if you can have windshield chip repair done.

Bulls-eye or partial bulls-eye rock chips are some of the most common windshield rock chips that can be repaired. They contain damage that is marked by a separated cone in the outer layer of glass that results in a dark circle with an impact point. A "bulls-eye" rock chip can be repaired if the diameter is no larger than one inch.

And don't forget your basic holding costs. Holding costs are the gas and electric you use during the time you own the house along with any finance charges if you have any loans. Also don't forget the real estate commission you need to deduct from your selling price. And last, what about your profit? You must figure in your profit just like it was any other expense. If you are planning to make $25,000 or $50,000, you must include it with your estimate. After all, who is more important than you!