You may expect a perfect windshield after getting a chip repair, but sadly, no repair can return your glass to factory-perfect. Understanding the process that fills the chip using a resin material helps you recognize why it can’t be flawless. The resin used to fill the chip doesn’t blend invisibly with the glass, so the original windshield chip still visible after repair. Depending on the size, smaller chips are less noticeable, while larger chips are more visible. Let’s explore the limitations of the repair process and when to consider replacing your windshield.
Understanding Windshield Chip Repair
So, you got a windshield chip and went for a repair to get it fixed. And now, after the repair, you might be expecting a flawless, new-looking windshield. Unfortunately, that’s not how it works.
Windshield chip repair involves filling the chip with a material that hardens to the same durability as the glass. The resin used to fill in the chip comes pretty close to the glass, but it can never blend in invisibly. As a result, windshield chip repair still visible.
However, the size of the chip plays a significant role in determining how visible the repair is. If the chip is too large, the repair will be more visible, and it might be necessary to replace the entire windshield. On the other hand, a smaller chip may be less visible, and the repair may blend in better.
Overall, while windshield repair can restore the structural integrity and functionality of the windshield, one should not expect the repair to be completely unnoticeable. Despite the minor visibility, the repair proves valuable, preventing the chip from evolving into a crack. As a result, you will avoid the expense of replacing your windshield entirely. Consequently, it is necessary to consider how to hide a windshield crack by balancing the benefits of repair against the inevitable visibility of the repaired chip.
Limitations of Windshield Chip Repair
When contemplating windshield chip repair in San Diego, it’s essential to consider the size of chips and their visibility. Chips smaller than a quarter and located at least an inch away from the windshield’s edge can typically be repaired. However, if a windshield chip is too small to repair, it may result in a more visible fix, particularly for larger chips, where the filled-in area contains more material than in smaller chips.
It’s important to remember that windshield chip repair is not a method of completely erasing damage to your windshield; rather, it’s a way to prevent further damage and increase the longevity of your windshield. Understanding the limitations of windshield chip repair can help you make the best decision for your windshield’s health and your wallet.
Why Repair Windshield Chips if they are Still Visible?
You may wonder why repairing windshield chips is important when the damage is still visible. Well, repairing a chip or crack can prevent further damage and cracking. The resin used to fill in the chip hardens to the same approximate durability as your glass, preventing the chip from growing in size. While the chip or crack may still be visible, it will not cause further damage or compromise the structural integrity of the windshield.
Replacing the windshield is the only way to completely hide imperfections, but repairing a chip or crack is an affordable and effective solution to prevent further damage. Plus, it is much easier and cheaper than replacing the entire windshield. So, if you have a chip or crack in your windshield, get it repaired as soon as possible, even if it is still slightly visible. It will save you time, money, and headaches in the long run.
Is Complete Disguise Possible?
Sadly, no product can completely hide the damage caused by a windshield chip or crack repair. The best that can be done is to fill in the cracks to prevent further damage and to make the blemish less noticeable. Even a filled-in chip will be less visible than a repaired star, but there is no solution that can make the damage disappear completely.
The only alternative for those who want a completely flawless windshield is to replace the glass. However, it’s important to keep in mind that some repairs help hide the flaw better than others. If you want to avoid seeing any cracks or chips when looking through your windshield, replacing the glass may be the best option for you.
Replacing the windshield is also necessary if the chip is too large or if it is located too close to the edge of the glass. Additionally, if your windshield is already pitted from long-term wear and scatters light when driving into the sun or oncoming headlights, it may need to be replaced.
No matter what the case is, the professionals at Speedy Windshield Repair can help you determine the right course of action for your individual needs.
When to Replace the Windshield?
If the chip is too large or too close to the edge, it is best to replace the windshield rather than repair it. This is because a large chip weakens the seal of the glass, making it more susceptible to cracking. Similarly, if your windshield is already pitted due to wear and tear, it needs to be replaced as it scatters light when you are driving directly into a sunrise, sunset, or oncoming headlights. Additionally, if you cannot see the road during rainy nights because the water and light scatter the light too much, then it’s highly likely that you need to replace your old windshield. Remember, replacing the windshield is the only solution to these issues. So, don’t hesitate to give a call to your local auto glass replacement provider.
Conclusion
In conclusion, getting a windshield chip repaired does not mean that your glass will return to its factory-perfect state. Understanding the process and limitations of the repair can help manage your expectations. While the repair may not be completely invisible, it prevents further damage and the need for a costly replacement. It’s always better to repair a chip or crack rather than ignore it, as it can eventually spread and compromise the structural integrity of the windshield. So, if you have a chip or crack in your windshield, don’t hesitate to get it repaired.
