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Different Auto Glass Repair Services For Varying Needs

The windshield of a car is very similar to a frontline soldier of the vehicle. Throughout the time of the vehicle, the windshield is subjected to intense amounts of external elements, even external damage. This can show up in the form of cracks or chips on the surface of the windshield. They are a standard protection feature in commercial cars since the proper deployment of airbags depends on the health of the windshield.

There is no concept of “one size fits all when it comes to auto glass repair.” Each type of damage is different and needs a different method of repair. Here, we will be going over a few of those methods and understanding the right method for the type of windshield damage. 

Windshield Patch

A patch is generally sold in a do-it-yourself or DIY repair kit. This is used by individuals when the crack is very small and does not compromise the entire structure of the windshield. A patch is first cut to the size of the scratch or cut, then applied. Once smoothened out and cured, it hardens, strengthening the damaged area. This does not necessarily “strengthen” the glass - it simply prevents further damage. This type of repair is ideal only for a first-time occurrence, after which it is ideal for getting the glass replaced.

Windshield Resin

Professionals mostly use this form of repair to prevent further windshield cracking. While it does not exactly “fix” the crack, it prevents further deepening or increased number of cracks. Resin is injected into the crack or chip. Then, a heat source is presented to warm up and harden the resin. As it heats up, the resin expands, filling in the crack. This helps to strengthen the damaged areas. 

It should be noted that repairing cracks through resin or patches is only ideal if the crack is shallow and smaller than 40mm in diameter. In cases where the cracks are too big or cannot be fixed with simple resin, getting the windshield replaced is a more fitting solution.

Windshield Replacement

This is the most common form of windshield repair. The old windshield is carefully removed and replaced with a new windshield in this process. This process is done by certified professionals and does not take a lot of time. 

However, there is not just one single type of crack or damage that leads to the replacement of the windshield; one can choose to replace their windshield for a wide array of damages. There are some notable situations wherein one should opt for windshield replacement. 

For example, if a stone hits the windshield while driving and punches a hole in it or causes a lot of cracks on the surface, the windshield should be changed. However, some cracks and damages can be internal and compromise the vehicle's structural integrity, thus making it a major safety hazard. A stress crack, for example, is an invisible crack that we cannot feel our fingertips over but causes structural damage to the windshield.

In any case, the best course of action is to contact an auto glass repair service and allow them to assess the damage and the repair. Windshield repair is a job best left to professionals.