A crack in your windshield can impede your vision and is considered unsafe to drive with. Fortunately, you can often get rid of it by repairing it.
Whether or not you can repair your damage depends on how deep the damage goes and where it is located on the glass. A crack or chip that penetrates only one layer of the windshield can usually be repaired. However, a crack or chip that extends over several inches of the windshield may not be repairable.
In addition, the location of the damage and whether or not it obstructs the driver’s line of sight also makes a difference. Some breaks or chips are easier to fix than others.
Windshield repairs are typically covered by comprehensive insurance, which is included in most car owners’ auto policies. However, the amount of coverage varies by policy. Some insurers only cover the cost of the replacement if the windshield has been damaged in an accident that was caused by another party.
The history of windshield repair is full of entrepreneurs and individuals who overcame many obstacles to become successful. The early pioneers of windshield repair worked diligently to convince insurance companies and glass replacement dealers of the benefits of repairing rather than replacing damaged windshields. Their efforts were not in vain, as the industry grew quickly and continues to grow today.
A common method used to repair windshield chips and cracks is resin. This method involves injecting a resin into the damaged area to fill it in. The resin is then heated so that it hardens and seals the break. This prevents the crack from spreading and strengthens the affected section of the windshield.
Although DIY windshield repair kits can be helpful for minor repairs, it’s important to remember that these kits usually come with limited warranties and can lead to further damage if the incorrect procedures are followed. It’s also crucial to start with a clean and dry windshield before attempting a repair.
In the early days of windshield repair, a company called Novus developed the equipment to make the process possible. This manufacturer began to sell its equipment to auto glass replacement shops and car dealerships, but was unable to get enough of the market share needed to become a fully-fledged windshield repair chain. Novus founder Keinath soon recognized that he could expand his business by working with individual windshield repair specialists.
This is the approach that most modern glass repair technicians take. Instead of selling the equipment to auto glass replacement dealers, they work with independent windshield repair specialists that specialize in repairing only chips and cracks. This way, these experts can focus on their craft and provide a better service for customers.
The most important thing to remember is that even a small crack should be fixed as soon as it is noticed. If left untreated, the damage can spread and force you to replace the entire windshield. In addition, in many states it is against the law to drive with a cracked or chipped windshield.
Wizard Auto Glass
1365 Mid-Way Blvd, Mississauga, ON L5T 2J5, Canada
(905) 564-5330