As you are driving down the high way at a fast speed and in your zone, BAM, a little pebble hits your windshield. You get startled and see a little crack, that looks nothing serious. But you’ve seen it before. That one small crack will soon become exponential damage. Everyone has experienced that moment. But here is a question for you: Do those windshield repair kits actually work? Should you patch things up yourself or just hire a professional?
Let’s start from the basics.
What Exactly Are Windshield Repair Kits?
You might have run across many of these on aisles in auto shops or even websites claiming to get rid of chips and cracks. But what’s the reality and how effective are these kits?
DIY or Pro – What’s the Difference?
Your windshield can either be replaced on self effort where you get a DIY repair kit, or you can simply call a professional repair service. Some Don’t expense your money using the injector kits which are guaranteed to leave you with disappointing results while transactions are made to certified experts providing a quality service.
One of the components that usually come with DIY kits is a resin sealant which is said to be injected into the crack. In principle, this resin penetrates the gap, curing it, and ensuring the fissure cannot propagate. This appears simple, doesn’t it? But if it is so simple, how come some people still visit specialists? Well, the details—and more often than not the end result—are in the details.
What Do You Expect To Find in a Windshield Repair Kit?
So what is contained in these random little boxes? Most likely, there’s a lot of:
Resin – An important material designed to fill the crack.
Injector tool – Aids in the even application of resin.
Drying strips – As the resin is now set, these strips keep it in position.
Curing light or tape – Dries resin faster, though not all kits come with this.
This is not as difficult as brain surgery, but it does call for a little skill and practice. Miss any step of the process and you may very well be looking at a situation where a poorly done repair is only going to get worse and spread faster than a conspiracy at a family gathering.
How Useful Are Windshield Repair Kits? (Can they be Usable)
Alright, here’s the point of the matter. Are windshield repair kits effective? Yes, but… I’ll tell you why it isn’t a magic wand. There are a few conditions you have to observe before jumping off the cliff.
When Do They Work Best?
Most windshield repair kits can effectively be used on chips and cracks, which are lower than 6 inches. In case there is a small starburst chip due to a rock or a single line crack, the chances are that a kit will be of assistance.
If a person’s windshield looks like it has survived the worst of the medieval battle, then chances are that any kit will not work. Large cracks, spider-webbing, or any parts near the edges of the glass are out of the reach of DIY. For these situations, the experts should be relied on to do the work.
Common Mistakes People Make When Using Them
Here’s the thing: as much as repair kits seem to be every parents’ unreliant attempts at fixing just about anything, others manage to mess them up . The most frequent error? Allowing the crack to be contaminated before the resin is put on. If it’s contaminated with soil or moisture, the resin will not adhere. Another basic error? Not waiting for the curing of the product. The curing process is very refreshing for the use of resin and if you do it quickly, do not be surprised if the crack shows up again.
Windshield Repair Kits vs. professional repairs: Is It worth the Gamble?
Now we’re getting into the big decision—is it Do It Yourself or Consult an expert? Both methods come with their advantages and twiddles, so here is the reason behind them.
Cost Comparison Cost Of Doing It Yourself vs. Cost Of Using A Professional
Just to be clear, what is a common reason for the purchase of a windshield repair kit by most people? Cost! A good kit might set you back $20-$30, while a professional repair could easily cost somewhere between $70 and $150.
But there is a caveat! If the kit is not effective, you may end up spending more in the long run because the crack will probably get bigger. Damages that spread to a wide area turn into the need for a whole windshield to be replaced which may even cost $400 or above. Thus, that “quick fix” may actually become a costly repair after all if executed poorly.
When You Can Ask For Help From A Professional
As a general guideline, I recommend that if the length of a crack is more than six inches, the crack is located a close distance to the driver’s side or if it is found around the perimeter of the glass, pick your phone and call a professional. It is not worth the chance that the crack will worsen and therefore obstruct your view. In addition, experts have the necessary tools and expertise to guarantee a flawless restoration.
Tricks for Effectively Using a Windshield Repair Kit
You have made up your mind in giving the kit a chance. What shall you do to see that it works? Just follow the following tips for better outcomes.
Taking Measures Before the Repair
Before the repair is even attempted do not forget to wash the area in question and make it dry. Any dust or moisture will ruin the resin’s capacity to bond with the surface of glass. Successive to this, do not attempt a repair once the temperature is too low or it is raining because it impacts on the curing process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Repairing Your Windshield
Clean the area around the crack.
Let the crack inject the resin through the injector I injecting tool.
The curing strips or cure tape should be able to restrain the resin in place.
Permit the resin to set for the period of time recommended by the manufacturer.
Remove any kind of mud/resin remaining and observe your work.
From the looks of it pretty much, but don’t forget: patience is the name of the game here!
Conclusion: Can Windshield Repair Kits Be Counted As Effective? Winding up with my view
So then the question arises—do windshield repair kits really work? Yes, they can—under the right circumstances. In case of small chips and minor cracks, sure, they can be of great use, specially for people on a budget. But they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. In the event that the crack which is bigger or the fix is botched, it is likely that one ends up costing themselves in the long run.
Do I recommend any windscreen repair kits for my readers? Yes, for minor damages, quite so. But if there’s any doubt in your mind there is probably a possibility you would save the hassle by just getting a professional. In the end, you will spare yourself a huge chunk of your time and possibly money as well.
FAQs
1. Is it possible to fix even the biggest cracks with a windshield repair kit?
No, repair kits work best on small cracks or chips on the windshield that measure less than six inches long. Thicker cracks usually require the use of professionals to repair them.
2. Curing has to be done quickly and how long does it take for the resin to dry?
30 minutes is how long most kits recommend the resin be allowed to sink in, but depending on a number of factors, this time may be longer.
3. Do I have to wait for the weather to warm up before using the windshield repair kit?
It’s not advisable. Wet or cold weather may impede the bonding resin. The repair should preferably be done in mild, dry weather.
4. How much money will I save with a repair kit?
An individual repair kit can be bought for $20-$30 whereas professional repairs will cost anywhere between $70 and $150.
5. What will happen if I do not seal a small crack?
Small cracks may spread fast, particularly with changes in temperature or pressure. If left unattended, the cracks may have to be replaced altogether where the windshield can cost over $400.