Windshield damage can be both annoying and hazardous. Large cracks spanning across the edge of the glass may reduce visibility while driving and compromise its integrity, endangering safety in an accident.
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Most chips and cracks can be repaired; however, their size and depth determine whether or not this option can be pursued.
Repairing a 12 Inch Crack
There are various factors that contribute to determining whether a long crack in a windshield should be repaired or needing replacement, with one key factor being whether the damage lies directly within the driver's line of vision; in such instances, replacement may be more practical and safer option.
Other considerations include the type and location of a crack or chip. Glass fillers and resins are designed to treat chips, divots, pits and some combination cracks; while bullseyes, stars and combination cracks need different repair solutions.
Stress cracks often appear due to repeated exposure to extreme temperatures or conditions; these tend not to be repairable and should be immediately replaced as soon as they're found.
Preparing for the Repair
When considering whether to repair or replace a cracked windshield, several factors must be taken into account. Most importantly is the size and location of any cracks or chips on your windshield; typically those under twelve inches long can be repaired as long as they do not impair your driver's field of vision. Furthermore, damage in upper corners or where air bags could potentially come into contact requires replacement for safety purposes.
First step of crack repair involves prepping the damaged area for repair with whatever kit you choose; depending on this, this may involve cleaning it thoroughly and applying a layer of lubricant to it. Some kits even feature special suction cup type applicators which attach directly to windshields to draw air out of cracks during this process and aid in the process.
Applying the Resin
Many repair kits include resin designed to fill cracks and chips in walls or other surfaces. Read through your kit's instructions carefully in order to determine an optimal ratio between resin and hardener, loading up an applicator if available, with enough resin, and applying it at the start of a crack or chip.
Cracked windshields often can be repaired. A qualified glass technician should assess if restoration of damage can be restored, however.
Cracks that cross a driver's line of sight cannot be repaired at home and must be replaced, with most comprehensive auto policies covering this expense once your deductible has been met. Most state safety inspections also mandate windshields must be free from cracks or chips longer than 3 inches that would fail these tests and result in failed inspection and possible fines for failing these inspections.
Curing the Resin
Once the resin has been injected into a crack, it needs to set. Most windshield repair kits include UV lights for this purpose; otherwise they can be purchased from hardware stores or online.
Once the crack has been fully repaired, you are safe to drive your vehicle again. Repairing windshield cracks quickly is key as continued driving with them could spread further and compromise its integrity – further compromise can include risking injury to others on the road or worsening visibility for drivers behind you.
Reapply the resin solution regularly to your windshield to help prevent future cracking, but if that proves unsuccessful, try viewing the crack from an 45 degree angle and sparingly applying pressure from within to release any air pockets that might be inhibiting its absorption – this should extend its lifespan and prolong your windshield's longevity.