Windshield damage is very common. In fact, according to the Insurance Journal there are 6 million claims for windshield damage filed each and every year. Keep in mind that that number represents only individuals that actually file claims with their insurance company. Many don’t ever take that step. Some will go direct to a glass professional for help but others will decide that they can take on the repair themselves. However, do-it-yourself windshield repair is not all it is cracked up to be.
Many people decide to try DIY windshield repair because they think it will be cheaper and quicker than using a glass professional. In addition, they assume that if the DIY attempt is unsuccessful they will merely be right back where they started meaning that they will be no worse off and can then pursue professional assistance. Unfortunately, for most, that is not the case.
Cost
DIY windshield repair kits aren’t expensive. You can pick one up for right around $20. However, depending on your insurance policy, the windshield repair done by a professional could be totally free!
Furthermore, many auto glass professionals, like Jack’s Glass, offer warrantees or guarantees on their work. That is not something you will get with a DIY kit.
Time
A DIY windshield repair may take you the better part of a day; however, in most cases a trained professional can knock out a rock chip or small repair job in under an hour.
No Harm Done
A failed DIY windshield repair job can actually cause a bigger problem. Once you inject the resin into the break and it cures, that’s it. The task of repairing that once small rock chip just became much more difficult. If the repair is badly done and the chip starts cracking and spreading you could now be looking at a total windshield replacement.
Safety
Did you now that your windshield provides as much as 60% of the structural integrity of your vehicle?
If you opt for a DIY windshield repair, safety is another factor to consider. If, when using a kit, the damaged area is not filled completely that chip may start to crack and quickly spread across the windshield.
A seemingly small and insignificant chip reduces the strength of your windshield. If that chip is not properly repaired and you are in an accident, the windshield is more likely to crack. Furthermore, your windshield helps prevent your vehicle’s roof from collapsing in the event of a rollover accident so having a strong and stable windshield is imperative for the safety of you and your passengers.
While DIY windshield repair kits may seem like a good idea, especially if you’ve successfully worked on your car at home before, there are a lot of factors to consider. It likely will not save you time or money in the long run. In addition, if you don’t return your windshield to its full strength and stability you may be jeopardizing the safety of yourself and your passengers in the future.
You can trust that the experts at Jack’s Glass to fix the damage to your car’s windshield quickly, with a focus on high-quality repair and exceptional customer service. Find a location near you or call us at 859-342-JACKS (5225) to find out how we can help.
Jack’s Glass provides repair and replacement for auto glass, custom solutions for shower and tub enclosures, and many other residential glass items. In addition, we do custom glass projects for businesses. We proudly serve Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, with locations in Elsmere, Covington, Alexandria and Dry Ridge.
