Can a Windshield Be Repaired?

Cracked and chipped windshields aren’t only unattractive, it’s dangerous. The last thing you want to do is compromise your safety and the safety of your passengers. Getting your windshield repaired should be a top priority. The longer you wait to fix it the larger the damage will spread. Chips become cracks and cracks get bigger. If you let it go too long, repair will be out of the question and you’ll need a full windshield replacement. 

Types of Windshield Damage

Not all windshield damage is the same. The type of damage, the severity, and the location all play a vital role in indicating if repair is a possibility. 

Chips

Most of the time, chips are small, localized impacts typically caused by rocks or debris hitting your windshield. Chips are usually repairable as long as they are small. Every shop has guidelines, but the size should typically be less than a quarter. 

Cracks

Between hairline fractures or long spider web-type breaks, the term “crack” can cover all types of damage to a windshield. Whether or not a crack can be repaired depends on the location and depth. Minor cracks might be repairable but if they reach over three inches then you might need a replacement. 

Bullseye or Star Cracks

This type of damage is star-shaped. And typically happens if an object strikes the glass. We recommend having a professional look at it but sometimes this type of damage can be repaired. 

Edge Damage

When the damage is along the edge of your windshield the structural integrity of the glass could be compromised. This makes it more difficult to repair. 

The Windshield Repair Process

Once you talk to a professional auto glass service, and if a repair is the right path forward, this is what you can expect. 

1. Cleaning

The first thing the technician will do is clean the damaged area to remove debris, dirt, and moisture. This is done to make sure the resin adheres properly. 

2. Injecting

Next, the technician will inject a specialized resin into the chip or crack with a syringe or similar tool. 

3. Curing

A UV light is then directed at the injected resin. The UV light will activate the curing process, which solidifies the resin with the windshield glass. 

4. Removing

Once the resin has been cured for the appropriate amount of time, the technician will remove any excess resin from the windshield. 

5. Polishing

Finally, the technician will polish the damaged area so the resin blends seamlessly with the rest of the windshield. 

Will My ADAS Technology Need Windshield Calibration?

Yes, if the damage to your windshield disrupts any ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) technology then you’ll likely need a windshield calibration. The calibration is an essential part of the process for several reasons. 

First, not having the windshield calibration process will cause your safety features to either malfunction or not work at all. Second, by skipping the ADAS windshield calibration process you could be voiding your manufacturer’s warranty. 

Will My Insurance Cover My Windshield Repair?

If you have comprehensive insurance, also known as “full” coverage, then your insurance will probably cover repairs to your windshield. But you might be responsible for the deductible. A reliable auto glass service will have employees on hand to help you file a claim with your insurance. 

You could call your insurance directly, but they may patch you over to a large corporate company, which isn’t the best choice for windshield repair. Local, independent auto glass services offer a more personalized experience. They also offer potentially lower prices and have a greater focus on quality workmanship than their larger, corporate counterparts. 

Do You Need a Windshield Repair in Chicago, Chicagoland, or the Northwest Indiana Area?

If you live, work, or are driving through Chicago, Blue Island, Harvey, or Hammond, IN contact us at Nacco Glass. We offer in-shop and mobile windshield repair services and we’re the premier auto glass experts in Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana. Our family-owned business has been independently owned and operated for more than thirty years.