Repair Windshield Crack
A crack in the windshield is a terrible experience. No matter how small the crack is, you know it's a problem and you know you need to get it fixed immediately. Then you start thinking about the cost of repairing it and the time it will take, and you probably start moaning loudly. But repairing windshield cracks can be much easier and faster than you think. Sometimes you can repair a crack in 10 minutes or less using very simple techniques.
First Steps
As soon as you get a crack, you need to get somewhere to stop its spread. A tiny crack can turn into a ruined windshield in very short order. If moisture gets into the crack or freezing weather hits the windshield, that crack will grow and expand and you will end up needing a full windshield replacement. Dirt and debris can also get into the crack, which can eliminate any possibility of DIY repair.Apply epoxy or acrylic directly onto the crack. This will fill the crack or the chip and keep it from spreading. You will notice a dramatic improvement in the crack after you do this.
Don't have epoxy or acrylic handy? You probably have clear nail polish. Grab it and swipe it over the crack to keep out moisture and dirt. This will serve as a band-aid until you can perform your repair.
Once you know that at least the crack will not get worse, you still don't want to waste a lot of time in repairing it. Luckily, it isn't difficult to move onto the next step and hopefully completely fix that windshield crack.
How Big Is It?
Large cracks in the windshield cannot be repaired with DIY methods. For larger cracks, you will need to contact a repair technician. Many companies specialise in car glass. However, this repair can be expensive, so it is always worthwhile to carry out the repair yourself if possible.As a general rule, if your crack is longer than the length of a standard US dollar bill, you cannot repair it yourself.
You also cannot repair cracks in certain areas of the windshield. Does the crack go through a radio antenna or something else embedded in the glass? If so, you will need to consult with a technician instead of repairing the crack.
If the crack is complex and actually consists of many different cracks, it is probably not an option to repair it yourself. A crack that contains one or more large chips may be too large to repair as well.Repairing the Crack
Windshield repair kits are available at any hardware store and even at Amazon, who can send you the kit overnight. These kits are incredibly easy to use and extremely effective. Just follow the instructions to the letter. Before you do anything to the windshield, make sure it is dry. If necessary, grab a hairdryer and use it to dry the windscreen completely.If you cannot repair the crack yourself, or if you are dissatisfied with your DIY work, you will need to contact a repair technician. Explore your options for making this more financially bearable. It is possible that your car insurance will cover all or part of the cost of the repair. Check with them before you take the plunge and pay the entire repair costs yourself.
Clear Views Ahead
The visibility of the windscreen is an essential part of the safety of your vehicle. You do not want to drive around with a crack in the windscreen of any size, as it is unacceptable to impair your visibility. Whatever you do, do not hesitate to repair the windscreen.Try a do-it-yourself approach first, if you can, and carry out the repair yourself. If this fails, contact professionals so that you can have the windscreen repaired and get the clear, unobstructed view of the world that you desperately need.
Was this article helpful? 49 Posted by: 👨 George J. Weeks
