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.
First things first the chip should be repaired before it gets filled with grit. To do this, the chip needs to be drilled while the cracks in it get vacuumed. An acrylic or crystalene resin is then inserted via syringe into the chip to restore the air trapped in the crack. Afterwards it is dried with UV light which hardens the substance and reinstates the original state of the glass. Acrylic resin is made up of carcinogenic acid which turns the chips yellow over time. Crystalene resin has better clarity and doesn't change color over time. It's available at ultra-low consistency and high consistency. Extra resin is scraped away and then polished for a finishing touch. This kind of treatment usually runs about $45-$100.
Maintaining your unit really shouldn't take up much of your time. When you find yourself vacuuming your home vacuum your air filter. This could be the single most important thing you do for your unit. Since your unit is sucking air in and filtering, it's a good idea to step outside now and then and wipe down the outside fins as well. Your unit should be turned off and unplugged during this part. If you choose to actually wash the fins or hose them down that is okay too, but be sure to unplug your unit. It is also important that you change windshield replacement the filter every six months. It's a good idea to have your unit maintained by a service professional before cooling season starts every year. This can catch big problem before they start.
This is another biggie. One way to overcome this stumbling block is to take a contractor with you when you inspect the house. If you do this on a few houses, you will become very efficient at estimating the cost to windshield chip repair many items such as putting on a new roof, installing siding, and replacing windows and doors. You will also become familiar with costs for painting, landscaping, clean outs, new furnaces and kitchen and bath updates.
Replacement of any home asset or feature should be a matter of last resort, especially at the end of a renovation or upgrade. However in some cases it can be the difference between a guaranteed sale and thousands in profit.
As you prepare for winter travel, do not neglect your windshield. It is an essential safety feature of your vehicle and should be given the attention it requires. With a little care and maintenance, your windshield should remain in good condition all season.