Chips, cracks, and when the glass has to come out
A chip is a point where something hit the glass. It looks small, but it is a weak spot, and the windshield flexes every time you hit a pothole, slam a door or run the defroster on a cold Providence morning. That flexing is what walks a chip into a crack. A crack that has started to run, one that reaches the edge, or one sitting in the driver's line of sight is the kind of damage where the safe answer is new glass.
People wait because the car still drives. That is the trap. Glass that is damaged does not get better on its own, and the longer it sits the more likely a small flaw turns into a full-width crack on the highway. If you are unsure, call (401) 461-9200 or stop by 299 Allens Ave and let Ray look at it. A look costs you a few minutes, and estimates come back within 24 hours on average.