Windshield Repair
Windshield replacement costs can vary depending on the type of damage and vehicle model. Fortunately, minor chips, dings, and cracks are typically covered by auto insurance.
It’s important to inspect your windshield for damage on a regular basis. While minor “star” or bullseye” rock chips may be repairable, cracks that are longer than a quarter call for replacement. See our home page.
Look for a Reputable Service
A well-repaired windshield will restore both durability and visibility. It’s important to do this promptly because cracks and chips that are allowed to enlarge will eventually weaken the glass. Rain and dirt that get inside the crack can also cause it to enlarge further, so a repair should be done before the damage has a chance to spread.
The location of the damage also plays a role in whether it can be repaired or not. If the damage is within the driver’s line of vision it should be replaced instead because a cracked windshield can impair your view while driving.
The technician should also be certified in windshield repair or replacement. Many unauthorized installers use low-quality materials or improperly glue the windshield, making it unsafe for driving and prone to leaks and rust. A certified technician will follow proper installation procedures to ensure the glass is firmly in place. This will also ensure that the windshield is properly bonded to the car frame and roof to protect against the forces of an accident.
Look for Customer Reviews
Getting a new windshield doesn’t have to be expensive. Safelite offers a free glass replacement for drivers who have comprehensive insurance coverage, according to their website. You can submit an online claim, and it’s easy to schedule an appointment. However, the cost can vary by vehicle, windshield type, and damage. Some minor rock chips and cracks can be repaired, but a badly pitted windshield needs to be replaced. Additionally, windshields that incorporate ADAS features require re-calibration, which can increase the cost.
It’s a good idea to repair small chips and dings as soon as possible before they spread into cracks. This can save you money on a replacement and prevent further damage to your car. Additionally, many insurance companies waive a windshield deductible if you choose to have it repaired rather than replaced. Aside from the financial benefits, it’s also environmentally friendly since you’re preventing more waste from ending up in landfills. Ultra Bond long crack repairs have been tested and surpassed the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards in both impact and penetration tests.
Read the Instructions
Your windshield is one of the most important components of your vehicle. It protects you and your passengers from debris while driving acts as the main visibility pane, and helps ensure that airbags deploy properly in an accident. It also serves as a barrier to rain and dirt that might otherwise damage the body of your car.
It is possible to repair cracks and chips in your windshield at home using a quality DIY kit, though you’ll want to read the instructions carefully before starting any work. Some kits have special curing steps or require additional tools.
Most kits are fairly simple and include a compound in a tube that seals a chip or crack. They usually have a tool to inject resin and an applicator to position it. Some have a small nozzle that can be used to clean the surface of the glass and remove any debris or dust. Some have a light to help with curing.
Use the Right Materials
Your windshield is one of the most important safety features of your vehicle. It protects occupants and provides stability for the car’s frame. When windshields crack, it is important to have them repaired quickly before rain and dirt have a chance to get inside the crack. This will prevent the cracks from enlarging and may help keep your car’s interior cleaner.
If your windshield is damaged, you should look for a repair shop that uses specialized materials for the job. Windshield repair kits contain a liquid resin that glues chips shut, seals out dirt, and (to a certain extent) stops cracks from spreading. There are a variety of kits on the market, but most use the same basic resin.
A good example is the Magnibond kit from Delta Kits. It contains a bottle of resin, an injection syringe, and curing strips that are easy to use. This resin is formulated to be flexible and durable, and it can be used on all types of windshields. Next article.
