If your automobile has recently endured windshield damage, you are likely wondering about all the available auto glass repair options. There are so many DIY methods that can help. At the same time, you also have replacement and professional repair options. While nothing can replace professional repair, you can still try some DIY repairs for mild damage. 

Here’s how to fix a chipped or cracked windshield:

• Use a windshield repair kit
• Try super glue
• Windshield Resin
• Professional help

If your windshield is damaged severely, you should consider visiting an auto glass repair shop for a quick fix. The technicians can help you with all kinds of windshield damage.

Should I Go For Windshield Repair or Replacement?

Before opting for any windshield fixing methods, it’s important to assess the condition of the damage. This can help you determine the severity of the condition so you can easily choose between repair and replacement. 

Consider the following:

• Check the Length of Crack: If your car’s windshield is cracked, measure the length of the crack using a ruler. If it’s longer than 8 cm, you should avoid DIY methods and instantly take your car for glass. 
• Look for Damage Near the Edge: If the crack or chip has occurred near the edge, it’s better to get the windshield replaced, as the damage can compromise the structure of the windshield. 
• Check for Damage on the Driver’s Line of Sight: If the area around the driver’s line of sight is damaged, the best option is to replace the windshield as repairing can still hinder the driver’s vision and affect the visibility.

Fixing a Chipped or Cracked Windshield

Now that you know when it’s right to replace or repair the windshield, it’s time to find out how to fix a chipped windshield.

1. Use Windshield Repair Kit

Fixing a cracked windshield using a repair kit is a good solution for minor damages. It’s the only solution you will need most of the time. 

Start by drilling a hole into the top layer of the windshield. The repair kit contains glue; use it to seal the crack. Make sure you apply the glue correctly through the crack, as it can help decrease stress on the windshield and prevent the crack from spreading. 

1. Try Super Glue

Windshield chip repair is possible with super glue or clear polish. To do so, you need to thoroughly clean the windshield with an auto glass cleaner and apply super glue to the crack. The super glue helps patch the crack. Once it’s dry, you can apply packing tape to the crack to keep dirt out of the damaged area.

Remember that it’s not a permanent fix, and you must take your vehicle for auto glass repair as soon as possible. 

1. Windshield Resin

Repair can be done using windshield resin. The good news is that this method can fix all kinds of cracks and chips in glass. However, you should avoid this method if you do not have experience handling cracked glass. 

Begin by injecting the resin into the chip or crack. To harden the resin, heat the area using a heat source. This will spread the resin and fill any space between the cracks, strengthening the damaged area and preventing the crack from spreading. 

1. Seek Professional Help

Fixing a cracked windshield that has undergone severe damage requires professional repair. You cannot try any DIY method on a cracked or chipped windshield and call it a day. DIY methods can provide only a temporary solution. Therefore, you must seek professional help from a repair shop. 

Since not all cracks and chips are repairable, professionals typically replace the whole windshield. Do not attempt to remove and replace the windshield on your own, as it can result in more harm than good. 

In Conclusion

If your vehicle’s windshield has met with a crack or chip, you must take immediate action to prevent the damage from spreading. A super glue or windshield resin kit can prove helpful as a temporary solution. However, for a permanent repair, you need to visit a repair shop. The expert technicians at the shop can help fix all kinds of glass damage, including chips and cracks. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can windshield chip repair work?

There’s no use in repairing chips that are larger than a quarter. You should take your car for auto glass repair in this case. 

Is it possible to stop a windscreen crack from spreading?

Yes, you can temporarily delay the crack’s progression by applying clear polish or super glue onto the windscreen crack. However, it’s not a substitute for professional repair. 

What are the risks associated with cracked windshields?

Cracked windshields can distract drivers due to reflections and distortions. This may result in misjudged distances and unsafe driving decisions.