Auto Repair - Windshields Issues and Solutions

If you’ve recently noticed a minor ship, scratch of crack in your windshield, you may be able to complete the repair yourself. Driving with a cracked windshield is not only a visual distraction, but a possible means to allow moisture to enter the vehicle. Before engaging in such a project, you’ll need to educate yourself in regard to general windshield maintenance. In this article, we will provide you with a few auto repair tips to help you fix your chipped, scratched or cracked windshield. 

Timing is Everything
Choosing to delay a windshield fix can only serve to make matters worse. With prolonged driving, a small chip can deepen, and cracks may become bigger. This may result in an entire windshield replacement, or for a professional glass technician to complete the job. 

Damage Depth
Start out by sliding your fingernail along the surface of the area where you see the issue. If your fingernail does not catch onto the crack, you’re likely looking at a minor repair. Deeper cracks may require professional attention. 

Cleaning
Make sure to remove all debris and dirt from the area around the crack. Make certain that you use light pressure, or else risk the possibility of additional damage. 

Drying
You’ll need to make sure that your surface is completely dry. This is to ensure that no water has been trapped within the windshield. You can use a hairdryer to make sure that no spot goes unattended to. Try to dry the windshield in an area that is close to room temperature. 

Covering and Protection
Add a protective covering to the hood area. This can be a blanket or tarp. Adding coverage will aid in preventing any additional damage that could possibly occur to the front of the vehicle during your windshield repair. 

Fill and Seal
Head down to your local auto service shop and find out which windshield kit is best for you. When in doubt, simply grab the attention of the clerk. The fill and seal process will differ depending on the type of kit you choose. In most cases, an adhesive is spread across the problem area to fill the gaps and seal out moisture. The substance is then buffed out and dried. After the adhesive has been given ample time to dry out, there may be a few areas that stick out further than the others. Shave off these areas with a single edge razor. Once everything looks to your liking, take your vehicle down to your neighborhood gas station and give your windshield a good wash. 

Professional Help
If you’re in doubt about completing the project, or are unable to obtain the results you were hoping for on your own, it may be time to seek out the help of an auto repair professional who is skilled in windshield maintenance. He or she will be able to evaluate your specific situation and provide you with a set of options to help you achieve the clear, new, shiny windshield you’re after.