Repairing a rock chip in the windshield is a very common yet complicated task, but it has been made a bit easier with the help of windshield repair kits. Chips and cracks need to be treated immediately; otherwise, these cracks spread and make the damage worse. After buying a windshield repair kit, one can quickly get on the repair journey by:
There are a few easy steps that you need to follow to use a windshield repair kit on a rock chip, such as:
To repair your windshield on your own, you’ll have to buy a windshield repair kit according to your specific needs. Many auto glass repair shops and online sellers sell good quality windshield repair kits that you can use to DIY your way through this process. Choosing a kit that is made of high-quality materials is essential to ensure a successful repair process.
The next thing you need to do to repair a windshield rock chip is to clean the affected area thoroughly. Dirt and tiny glass can surround the chip and compromise the adhesive patch. By thoroughly cleaning the area, you ensure the patch strongly bonds with the glass to prevent further damage.
Take the adhesive patch out of the repair kit and align it with the damaged area. If the chip or crack is bigger than the cutout adhesive patch, you won’t be able to patch it properly. But you’re good to go if the chip fits inside the patch. Align the patch on the damaged area on the exterior of your windshield. Your repair kit also consists of a plastic pedestal, which you will then take out and use its angled sides to apply epoxy.
The next step in repairing a rock chip in the windshield requires using epoxy resin. Some resins need to be mixed, while others are already mixed, and you can combine them while applying. First, pour liquid resin into the pedestal and then use the syringe to push it down completely into the pedestal. After that, hold the pedestal carefully and start pulling back on the plunger. If you mix the epoxy correctly, it will not get pulled back into the syringe. Slowly and carefully pull the syringe upwards, but don’t let it completely come out of the pedestal, or else it won’t be possible to create the necessary vacuum. A vacuum will form in the syringe once you pull the syringe upwards, which will help the air bubbles escape from the cracked area.
Most kits have a specialized curing strip for the final layer. This strip is an integral part of the repair process, and it’s essential to use it correctly to get the best results. Once you’ve placed the strip on the crack, hold it firmly and use a scraper or any card if you have nothing else to eliminate the remaining air bubbles. After this, you need to wait for the recommended time mentioned in the instructions before removing the strip with a razor blade. This is a delicate step, and it’s important not to rush it or attempt to remove the strip by hand. You need to use care while scraping off the strip to get a clean finish.
The last step involves cleaning the glass once again to remove all the dust and residue left behind during the repair process. And just like that, you’re done repairing a windshield rock chip!
Best Windshield Repair Kits For 2024 include the following:
You can stop the windshield crack from spreading by applying duct tape to the crack, using super glue or transparent nail polish, and driving slowly and carefully until you get it repaired.
Yes, you can use an even layer of super glue on a chip or crack on the windshield and wait for it to dry completely before driving your car again. Super glue typically stops the windshield crack from spreading.
Answering the commonly asked question of how to repair a rock chip in a windshield, we’ve come to the conclusion that it is possible to repair chips and cracks if you work fast. You can DIY it by following the steps mentioned above and carefully reading and acting upon the instructions in the repair kit. You can also seek professional help and get it repaired without any hassle.