Driving on the road can be unpredictable and sometimes small rocks or debris can hit your windshield and cause chips or cracks. While these may seem like minor issues, they can quickly turn into larger problems if not addressed promptly. Ignoring windshield damage can compromise your safety and even result in a costly replacement. In this blog post, we’ll go through the steps of how to fix a windshield chip or crack.

Assess the Damage: Before you can fix the chip or crack, you need to determine its size and severity. A chip is typically smaller than a dime, while a crack is longer than six inches. A simple trick is to cover the damage with a piece of clear tape to prevent dirt and debris from getting inside the crack or chip. If the damage is minor and not in the driver’s line of vision, you may be able to fix it yourself. However, if the crack or chip is extensive, it’s best to seek professional help.

Gather Supplies: To repair the chip or crack, you will need a windshield repair kit. You can purchase one at an auto parts store or online. Most kits come with resin, an applicator, and curing strips.

Clean the Windshield: To ensure a good repair, you need to clean the windshield thoroughly. Use a clean cloth and mild detergent to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. Let it dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

Apply the Resin: Next, follow the instructions on your windshield repair kit to apply the resin to the damaged area. Typically, you will need to attach the applicator to the resin and place it over the chip or crack. Apply the resin slowly and carefully, making sure to fill the entire damage. You may need to apply several drops of resin depending on the size of the damage.

Cure the Resin: Once you’ve applied the resin, place the curing strip over the damage, and apply pressure to it for a few minutes. This process allows the resin to bond with the windshield and fill in the damaged area. Depending on the kit, you may need to expose the repair to sunlight or use a UV lamp to cure the resin.

Clean and Inspect the Repair: After the resin has cured, remove the curing strip and clean the windshield again to remove any excess resin. Inspect the repair to ensure that it’s smooth and level. If there are any bumps or excess resin, you can use a razor blade to carefully remove them.

In conclusion, fixing a windshield chip or crack requires a little time and effort but can save you from costly repairs in the long run. If you’re unsure about the extent of the damage or not confident in repairing it yourself, it’s best to seek professional help. Remember to take care of your windshield by avoiding driving too close to large vehicles and following traffic laws to prevent accidents.