You probably don’t give much thought to your windshields- until they get damaged. Then, it’s easy to see the vital role they play in protecting passengers and ensuring visibility while driving.
A chipped windshield can be a minor inconvenience. However, left unaddressed, chips can “run” and compromise the integrity of the glass. This is unsightly and even dangerous.
This article lays out the latest repair techniques for a chipped windshield. Keep reading to learn more about the most innovative restoration and maintenance tips available.
Repair Techniques
There are several options for addressing a crack or chip in a windshield. Here are the main ones to consider.
Resin Formulations
Applying a resin formulation is the most common technique used for repairing windshields. Windshield repair resins are made of acrylic acid. This is an organic compound that is also found in many glass polishes, adhesives, and coatings.
Applying this resin to a cracked windshield should be done with great care. If it comes into contact with paint or plastic, the resin could cause damage. It also can be toxic if exposed to human skin or eyes.
Windshield Replacement
Windshield replacement is necessary for extensive damage and certain types of damage. Larger or more complex chips or cracks that extend across the windshield are good examples. Also, for damage that contains ground-in debris, windshield replacement may be the best option.
Windshield replacement may be faster and easier than you think. Experienced technicians will use specialized tools to remove the old windshield and replace it with a new one.
Patches
A patch is a DIY windshield repair that is not intended as a permanent glass damage fix. Most will even advertise that, at best, they will restore clarity to about 90 percent. They can, however, help chips from running.
Some patches use the same type of resin as professional, though they can vary in quality among patch kits. Also, the DIY application process can be uncertain. In short, using patches is a quick way to stop the bleeding, but you should still schedule professional repair.
Windshield Repair Tips
There are a few things you can keep in mind to make auto glass repair go smoothly. The main one is not to wait for repairs. Compromised glass will only get worse over time.
If the glass is shattered or severely cracked, you may consider having the vehicle towed. Compromised visibility can be dangerous to you and your passengers when driving. It also is even illegal in some states.
Keep in mind that many shops offer remote service. Depending on the damage, they may be able to do the restoration in your driveway or work parking lot.
After some repairs, you may have to limit driving. Following windshield replacement, technicians may instruct you to keep windows cracked for a short time to equalize pressure and related stress on the adhesive seal.
Find Chipped Windshield Repair Near You
Now that you understand how cracked or chipped windshield repair works, you can move forward. An experienced windshield repair shop can further advise you on the best restoration techniques available.
At Busy Bee Windshields, our mascots Chip and Crack have got your back. We provide the highest-quality cracked windshield solutions to Salt Lake City and the surrounding areas. Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment.
