Have you ever discovered a minor chip or crack in your windshield but decided against having it fixed because of the cost? It’s safe to assume that everyone has, and you could even have everything you need to repair it right at home. Now you’re stuck wondering how to fix a cracked windshield yourself to avoid paying for a replacement. In most cases, it’s best to have a professional fix your windshield, but if you’re strapped for cash or don’t want to deal with it, there are a few things you may try.
This comprehensive guide to windshield repair is the pinnacle of self-imposed isolation.
Although, things do not need to be this way at all. A broken windshield is an unexpected hazard, but with the right tools, which you can purchase for less than $10, the repair is more straightforward than you would think. The only other expense is some of your time and tolerance.
Remember that you are simply making a short-term fix with your DIY effort. At some point, a trip to an auto glass shop for a good fix or the purchase of a repair kit from a car parts store will be necessary. Knowing how to make a temporary windshield repair using supplies found around the home will give you some time while you wait for a permanent solution.
How To Perform a DIY Cracked Windshield Repair
If you want to know how to fix a cracked windshield yourself, please remember that it might not take long for the chip to become cracked. This could be due to a drastic temperature change between the exterior and the defrost warmer inside. These chips and fractures appear intent on impeding your vision of the road, of course. If the break is large enough, moisture may seep in and produce fogging inside or in the center of the glass, creating a safety issue. Your initial step should be to examine the chip in great detail.
A little chip or cracked windshield may be easily repaired using clear nail polish. It sounds unbelievable, doesn’t it? You can save a ridiculous amount of money by utilizing one common home item. Nail paint brushes and this liquid are all you need to get the job done.
1. Clear Nail Polish
There must be a good reason for wearing transparent nail paint. Fixing the crack or chip with this common home item is a low-cost and simple technique to stop it from spreading. Even though it’s a temporary fix, it should do the task!
The process of fixing this is simple and fast. To begin, find somewhere cool and shady to park your automobile, such as a garage. The polish won’t dry too quickly if you do this. After that, you need to wipe the windshield completely, ensuring there is no dirt around the contact area or any place else on the glass. Lastly, load up the nail polish brush with enough clear polish to fill the whole crack. It’s essential to apply a thick layer of polish to the impact site and to do so uniformly. If you’re going to give this a shot, make sure your windshield is spotless before you apply the polish. If you want the nail polish to seep into the cracks in your windshield, using it when it’s cool outside is best.
You should apply nail polish slightly outside the crack’s boundaries as well.
If you choose to try this, we recommend only using it as a stopgap measure while you seek more permanent solutions. However, applying nail polish over a patch may make further assistance impossible. A complete windshield replacement may be necessary if the chip does not stop spreading after several coats of nail paint.
2. Super Glue or Gorilla Glue
You can use super glue; a high-quality, clear super glue will do in a pinch. However, you should avoid Gorilla Glue because it swells as it dries, which could exacerbate the problem (just picture the glue seeping into the chip/crack and expanding between the panes of glass). We recommend a tried-and-true brand like Krazy Glue if you must use super glue.
A super glue of excellent quality, such as this one, may prevent the crack from expanding while you navigate your way to an expert who can perform the repair correctly. On the other hand, it is likely to be unreliable as a solution in the long run. Again, this may make it impossible for a trained technician to access the chip or crack to make the necessary repairs.
If you choose to repair your windshield with crazy glue, you will need the following additional items:
- To access the adhesive, you will want a pair of scissors.
- Don’t forget to take the item that is most vital to you, which is the crazy glue.
- Q-tips made of cotton
- Remover for Glue
It is interesting to note that some auto glass businesses that specialize in the repair of windshields recommend applying transparent superglue or nail paint to patch a fracture temporarily. However, they also propose that when the glue has been allowed to dry (which is very important), you apply transparent scotch tape over the area and then make your way to get a comprehensive, professional repair as soon as possible. This is something that you should do as soon as possible.
3. The Best Way to Repair a Cracked Windshield is to Consider A Replacement!
We understand that not everyone can afford a full windshield replacement. However, receiving a fix from an auto glass business remains the safest and best option available. It’s important to keep safety in mind whenever you experience a cracked windshield.
All the glass in your car, from the front and back windshields to the side windows, has a purpose beyond merely providing you with an unobstructed view of the road and your surroundings. Engineers in the automotive industry use cutting-edge technology to build windshields that better protect the vehicle’s occupants. Auto glass won’t have the necessary stability if the repair or replacement isn’t done properly and professionally. Should an automobile accident occur, this can have devastating results.
If your windshield is cracked or chipped, you should have it fixed or replaced by a professional car glass expert. When driving, you should never put your safety at risk to save money. A windshield repair is your best bet!
When in Doubt, Ask the Experts!
Our vehicles are often subjected to damage from the road, including cracks and chips. Don’t fret! Kryger Glass has got you covered. At Kryger Glass, we value you. Our glass technicians will quote you on a windshield repair or replacement and answer any questions you might have. Contact us, and we will do the rest at one of our shops or at your home.