When you notice a crack or chip in your windshield, you may be tempted to run to the store to pick up the quickest remedy possible. Items like DIY repair kits are readily available, making them a tempting choice if you don’t want to schedule professional repairs. But can these kits actually repair damage, or are they too good to be true?
If you’re dealing with cracks and chips across your windshield and you’ve been considering purchasing a DIY repair kit, keep reading to see what our team recommends.
Signs You Need Windshield Repairs
Recognizing the early signs of windshield damage can help you address issues before they become more costly to remedy. Some of the key signs your windshield needs repair include:
- Small Cracks & Chips: Even the smallest cracks and chips on your windshield can quickly turn into a major headache.
- Spiderweb Cracks: Cracks that branch out like a spiderweb indicate structural weakness and require immediate repair.
- Edge Cracks: Damage near the edge of your windshield may lead to structural problems, compromising its integrity.
- Distorted Vision: Any chips or cracks that affect your line of sight can reduce visibility and driving safety.
- White Haze Around Cracks: If you notice a haze around the damage, this may indicate delamination, where the glass layers are separating.
The Limitations of DIY Repair Kits
DIY repair kits are designed to help drivers address minor damage across their windshields, including small cracks and chips. These kits typically come with a resin, which you use to fill in the damaged sections of your windshield to prevent further damage. But, as appealing as they may sound, they do have some limitations, including:
- Limited Effectiveness: While DIY repair kits may be a good option for some damage, their repair abilities are incredibly limited. If you’re dealing with deep cracks and chips, they may not be sufficient enough to restore visibility. In some cases, they may lead to worsening damage over time.
- No Guarantee of Structural Integrity: Your windshield safety is essential for keeping you protected on the road. Without a strong windshield, you’re at risk of severe injury during an accident or in the event of additional damage. DIY repair kits can’t guarantee the integrity professional repairs can, putting you and your vehicle at risk.
- Aesthetic Issues: When you use a DIY repair kit to fix minor windshield damage, it often leaves streaks, visible marks, and an uneven surface in its wake. On the other hand, professionals have the training and tools to ensure there is no visible demarcation around the repaired area, ensuring your windshield looks its best.
- Risk of Worsening Damage: Using a DIY repair kit isn’t as simple as it seems, and applying the products improperly can have a detrimental effect on your windshield. Incorrectly applied products may cause existing damage to spread, leading to unsafe driving conditions.
Why Professional Windshield Repair is Your Best Option
Although you may be tempted to invest in a DIY repair kit, it is always in the best interest of your vehicle that you reach out to the professionals for support. While professional repair may be more expensive, it will save you money and stress in the long run. There are many benefits to professional windshield repairs, including:
- Expert Assessment: Sometimes, the damage to your windshield is more significant than it seems. Professionals can determine whether the damage is minor enough for repairs or if replacement is best to restore vehicle safety. They consider factors like crack depth, length, and location, which a DIY kit cannot determine.
- Advanced Equipment: While DIY kits come with tools to make repairs, these tools aren’t as advanced as those used by the professionals. With their tools, you won’t have to worry about repair attempts leaving visible residue behind, ensuring your windshield visibility is restored.
- Vehicle Safety: Your safety is the most important part of repairs, and DIY kits can’t guarantee safety the way auto glass professionals can. Professional repairs ensure structural integrity, which is essential for airbag deployment and roof support during a rollover accident.
- Warranty Protection: The last thing you want to consider after making windshield repairs is paying for additional repairs. When you use a DIY kit, any additional repairs must be covered out of pocket, which can quickly add up. Professional services come with warranties, giving you peace of mind should you experience any more damage.
Don’t Risk It, Schedule Professional Windshield Repairs
Although DIY repair kits might seem like a quick way to restore your windshield, they can be more of a headache than they’re worth. If you’re dealing with damage, it is always best to reach out to an auto glass professional to schedule essential repairs. With their expertise, training, and professional products, you can trust that your windshield will be properly restored.
If you’re looking for a reliable auto glass repair team in the Northern Utah, Idaho Falls, or Boise area, turn to our team at Valley Glass for support. We’ve provided reliable auto glass services to drivers for over 60 years, making us the best choice for any repairs or replacements your vehicle may need. If you’d like to learn more about our repair services or are interested in scheduling, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
