A step-by-step guide for windshield repair & windshield replacement

Have you encountered a situation where a bird suddenly falls and lands on your windshield? The problem might be a minor issue which a simple act of switching on the wiper can fix immediately. Luckily for most Filipinos, some Mayas are the only kind of bird that may find themselves lying on a windshield.

But, what if large debris falls and cracks it? People may never see the importance of a windshield and how dangerous it can be when you drive with it. To give you a refresher, Philkotse.com will first discuss the functions of the windshield.

1. Functions of a Windshield

You see motorcyclists, and you wonder, it seems okay to drive even when you don’t have something protective or a cover like a windshield, so why is it there a need to include it when car manufacturers put up a vehicle in one piece? Read on below to find out.

Protection from foreign elements

Imagine you’re going 20 miles per hour, with such force and speed, it is a given that you’ll face bugs, birds, dust, rocks, and dirt head-on. If you're okay with a bug constantly smacking its entire body on your face, then you can drive without a windshield, but we bet that doesn't sound ideal.

More so, if the road you’re driving on has debris. What if a piece of rock suddenly makes its way to your head? Such instances cause injuries that can be prevented if you have you drive with a windshield.

Windshield prevents injuries from road debris

>>> Read more: 3 easy tips every Pinoy driver should know to keep bugs away from the windshield.

Prevents a person from being thrown out of the vehicle

Unless the collision is massive, your windshield actually safeguards you from a devastating impact. When you are inside your car even if an accident occurs, you’re safe. The windshield actually absorbs your force or forward motion.

Being plastered all over the road can lead to other injuries given that other motorists can bump into you.

Your windshield actually safeguards you from a devastating impact

>>> Related: How to clean your car’s windshield from the inside in 4 steps

Pillar for car’s roofing

Some of the latest car models provide support or will act as a pillar for its roofing structure. Unlike before that steel pillars are a must so that the roof won’t collapse, now you have the trusty windshield to do it. 

Now that we pointed out how your windshield can actually save your life, we’ll delve into the topic of when replacing or repairing windshield really matters. There are debates to when the need for replacing or repairing a windshield.

Some would argue that repairing is more practical than replacing, while some would say that replacing is an investment for long-term functionality. To clear your mind regarding this issue, here's a rundown of the differences between both.

Some of the latest car models provide support or will act as a pillar for its roofing structure 

2. Process of Repairing vs. Replacement

DIY RepairIf you are doing the process by yourself, you’ll need to purchase a repair kit from your trusted hardware store. Most of the time, the kit would involve an adhesive and a syringe that you’ll need for the application.  Before starting a dry, cracked area is given emphasis.

The glue and the repair resin won’t stick if the broken portion is wet. With the help of an applicator/syringe, the resin is injected to fill the crack. Once the procedure is done, you need to dry off the formula and scrape the remaining resin from the windshield.

You’ll need to purchase a repair kit from your trusted hardware store

DIY Replacement

On the other hand, should you decide to replace your windshield by yourself, there are steps that you need to follow as well. Buying the correct windshield and removing all items attached to your windshield such as wipers, rearview mirrors and trinkets should be done first.

Protective gear is a must before dealing with broken pieces glass that might injure you. Also, a helping hand is needed as removing the windshield from its frame can be bothersome and heavy. Before putting in a replacement, it is essential to clean the gasket free from dirt and dust. Once it is placed, always check if the fit is snug and right.

Should you decide to replace your windshield by yourself, there are steps that you need to follow

Determining the best solution

There are a lot of aspects to consider before deciding if it’s best to replace or repair your windshield. Here are some of the factors you need to evaluate and if the criteria fit, windshield repair is the best option.

>>> Also check: 3 useful tips to keep your windshield in its top shape.

3. Shape and sizes of the Crack

• Bull’s eye – these cracks form a circle crack as it is caused by balls, small and circular chunks of stones, and even coins.
• Star – cracks that originated from the area of impact. For example, a bird that has fallen on your windshield and it resulted in a crack. The crack itself is not of the main concern but the lines that will continue to appear longer if untreated.
• Crack chips and dings – these cracks appear with the same size as a 25-centavo coin or not larger than a 1-peso coin. 
• Pit – these are similar to the craters of the moon that is a result of sanding. These cracks can be treated with a quick application of resin.

All of the cracks and chips that do not appear in the mentioned criteria above needs to be replaced. Just a caution, however, no matter how small these cracks are if they riddle your windshield already. It is recommended that you have your windshield replaced immediately.

4. Impact and location of the crack

There will be cases wherein a small crack might call for a replacement. Cracks can affect a driver's line of sight and even compromise the overall strength of the windshield.

Most of the time, technicians would run a risk assessment for windshields that need to undergo either repair or replacement. This will enable them to provide the right solution.

There will be cases wherein a small crack might call for a replacement

If you need a quick rundown of cracks that cannot be repaired and needs immediate replacement.

Cracks that have reached the inner surface but was not able to penetrate the windshield.

• Cracks that penetrated not just the outer but inner surface as well.
• Cracks on the vehicle’s rain sensor or internal radio antenna.
• Cracks that hinder or block a motorist’s line of vision.
• Cracks that are located in multiple areas of the windshield.
• Cracks located on or near the edge of the windshield.

It is essential to account your insurance coverage and warranty as well. It will save you a lot of money if your warranty covers such damage or if the warranty allows windshield repair or replacement for free.

Always remember that your windshield acts as the first line of safety against debris and other physical elements that might injure you and your passengers, if you are unsure whether you should repair or replace it, research and consultation from your trusted technician will help.