Have you considered windshield repair for the chip in your windshield? A crack in the windshield does not always have to mean the expense of replacing the entire windshield. Windshields are constructed of safety glass that is designed not to shatter on impact, this does not mean it will never shatter but it does take a lot of force to shatter a windshield. This design consists of two pieces of glass bonded together with a sheet of laminated plastic between them. If a crack is less than three inches long then repairing the windshield may be a viable option. During repair, the chip or crack is drilled down to the lamination layer were a resin is applied and cured to provide strength and clarity to the windshield. There are many advantages to repairing the windshield.
Windshield Repair Saves Money
The average cost of repairing a windshield varies according to the size and location of the chip or crack. A chip is much faster to repair than a crack and also requires much less resin. Here is an estimate of repair versus replacement cost but please keep in mind this is only an estimate. Actual pricing takes into account the location of the damage, the extent of damage, and how long the damage has existed.
- $10 to $20 for a do-it-yourself kit
- $40 to $100 for a repair service
- A standard windshield replacement averages $250 to $500
- OEM replacement can be over $1000
Since the windshield repairs cost are much cheaper than replacing the entire windshield, most insurance policies such as GEICO will pay 100% of the total price of repairing a windshield whereas they charge a deductible for replacing a windshield. This savings is to encourage customers to choose the less expensive option of windshield repairing, thus saving everyone money. Please keep in mind only comprehensive coverage insurance policies cover windshield repair or replacement. Liability only insurance policies will cover the other vehicle if you are found at fault in an accident but damage to your own vehicle is your own responsibility.
Restores the Integrity
A cracked windshield does not always have to be replaced; a good repair job will restore the integrity of the windshield and prevents it from spreading any further. An experienced automotive glass specialist, such as Glass Doctor, will be able to repair the crack or chip in a few steps starting with thoroughly cleaning the area to remove any debris or glass fractures. Next, it is necessary to drill down to the lamination layer and removing any particles created from drilling. Then resin is injected under pressure and allowed to cure which provides strength to the windshield and restores the clarity needed for safe driving.
Do It Yourself Windshield Repairing
Repairing a cracked windshield does not have to mean spending half the day in an expensive repair shop waiting your turn for a 15-minute repair job, why not do the job yourself?. A windshield repair kit can be purchased from your local auto parts store for approximately $10 to $20. When considering a do-it-yourself kit, keep a few things in mind:
- It may work great on chips but a crack is a bigger challenge requiring an experienced repair technician.
- Don’t do the repair in the hot sun as the heat could cause the resin to harden too quickly.
- Thoroughly clean the area first because debris or broken glass inside the chip could ruin the repair.
- Check the package for the maximum size of chips the kit is designed to repair. Most kits effectively repair bulls-eye, star damage, and chips up to 1-1/4”
Do-it-yourself kits with easy to follow instructions are an excellent option for people who feel comfortable doing their own repairs. The process is very cost effective and allows for doing repairs in your own time frame.
Summary
Repairing a windshield is usually a less expensive alternative to replacing a windshield. Most insurance companies cover the complete cost of repairing the windshield but charge a deductible when replacing a windshield. The resin injected into the crack or chip during the repair works to restore strength and clarity to the damaged area, therefore protecting the integrity of the windshield.
Do-it-yourself kits sometimes offer a quick and easy option with minimum associated costs for people who feel comfortable doing their own repairs. When choosing a do-it-yourself kit, be sure to verify the maximum size of the chip the kit it is recommended to repair. Overall, windshield repair is a good option for chips and even small cracks in a windshield.
DISCLAIMER: This article is for guidance only. Always consult with a Specialist on everything.