If you spot a small chip in your windshield, addressing it promptly can prevent further damage and costly repairs. Left untreated, minor chips can expand into larger cracks, ultimately requiring a full windshield replacement.
At Glass Solutions, we specialize in repairing small chips and cracks without the need for a complete windshield replacement. Our expert auto glass technicians in Durham, NC, offer both in-store and mobile repair services, bringing professional, certified care directly to your location for maximum convenience.
Windshield Repair vs. Replacement
When you discover a chip or crack in your windshield, the first decision to make is whether a simple repair is sufficient or if a full replacement is necessary. Here’s how our experts at Glass Solutions help you decide.
When to Choose Windshield Repair
- Minor Damage: If the damage is a small chip (typically less than ½” in diameter) or a crack that’s three inches or shorter, our technicians can often restore your windshield to its original strength with a high-quality resin repair.
- Preserving Original Glass: Repairing the windshield allows you to keep the original glass, which can be important for maintaining the integrity and factory fit of your vehicle.
- Cost-Effective and Fast: Windshield repairs are significantly less expensive than full replacements and can usually be completed quickly—often within the same day.
- Maintaining Structural Integrity: A properly executed repair reinforces the surrounding glass, helping to maintain your vehicle’s structural safety until a complete replacement might be necessary.
When to Replace Your Windshield
- Extensive Damage: If the chip or crack is large, spreads rapidly, or is located in a critical area such as the driver’s line of sight or near the edges where structural integrity is compromised, a replacement is recommended.
- Multiple Damages: When there are several chips or cracks, repairing each one may not guarantee long-term safety and clarity, making replacement the safer option.
- Compromised Repair: In cases where previous repairs have been attempted or if the damage affects the overall stability of the windshield, our experts may advise a full replacement to ensure your safety on the road.
Our Windshield Repair Process
Our windshield repair process is a long-lasting solution that restores the appearance and integrity of your windshield.
Expert Inspection and Assessment
Our process begins with a thorough inspection of your windshield to evaluate the size, location, and severity of the damage. Our experienced technicians assess whether the chip or crack can be safely repaired or if a replacement is needed to maintain the structural integrity of your vehicle.
Preparation of the Damaged Area
Once we determine that repair is the best option, we carefully prepare the damaged area.
This involves:
- Smoothing Rough Edges: We meticulously smooth out any rough edges around the chip or crack to prevent further stress on the glass.
- Cleaning Out Debris: All loose glass fragments and debris are removed to ensure a clean surface for repair.
- Removing Air Pockets: We eliminate any trapped air in the damaged area, which is crucial for a proper bond during the repair process.
Resin Application and Curing
With the area prepped, we inject a specially formulated, clear resin into the void. This resin is designed to bond the glass back together and restore its strength.
The curing process is carefully controlled:
- Bonding for Durability: The resin hardens to reinforce the glass structure, preventing the damage from spreading.
- Minimizing Appearance: The clear resin not only strengthens the windshield but also reduces the visual impact of the chip or crack, leaving your windshield looking as close to its original condition as possible.
Final Inspection and Quality Assurance
After the resin has fully cured, our technician conducts a final inspection to ensure that the repair meets our high standards. We verify that the repair has restored the windshield’s integrity and that the finish is smooth and unobtrusive.
Quick and Convenient Service
Our streamlined process means most repairs are completed quickly—often within the same day—so you can get back on the road with confidence. Plus, our mobile repair service allows us to come to your location in Durham, NC or the surrounding areas, ensuring maximum convenience and minimal disruption to your day.
Why Choose Our Durham Windshield Repair Experts
Windshield Repair FAQs
Can you fix a cracked windshield without replacing the entire windshield?
Our Durham windshield repair professionals are often able to fix a cracked or chipped windshield without replacing the entire windshield. However, it’s important to note that a cracked windshield may need to be replaced in its entirety if the damage is widespread or if the chip penetrates beyond the top layer of glass. To get an opinion from a member of our auto glass repair team who can determine whether your windshield can be repair or needs replacing, fill out the form below.
Do windshield repair kits work?
A windshield repair kit serves as a short-term solution for a cracked windshield. It will allow you to get back on the road until you can get to a trusted auto glass repair shop. Repairing your windshield with a kit will stop the crack from spreading, but it won’t cover up or fix the damage. To that end, it’s important to have your windshield repaired by a trusted Durham auto glass professional who provides reliable windshield repair services. Glass Solutions has over 100 years of combined experience and our team is ready to help you today!
How much does it cost to repair a broken windshield?
The cost to repair a broken windshield varies based on the severity of damage, your vehicle’s make/model, and the type of windshield replacement service you need. On average, your standard auto glass repair shops charge between $250-400 to fix a broken windshield.
However, Glass Solutions, a trusted, local auto glass repair shop charges only $95 in-store windshield repair and $150 for mobile windshield replacement (i.e. we’ll come to you). You may fill out out our form to request a custom price quote for windshield repair.
How long do I have to wait to drive my car after having the windshield repaired?
In order to ensure your new windshield is properly set, we advise you to wait at least one hour before driving your vehicle.
What can I do to keep my windshield strong and resilient to breaking?
The following tips from our Durham auto glass repair specialists will help keep your new windshield in the best condition possible.
- Avoid car washes and heavy water pressure for 48 hours after your windshield is repaired.
- Vent a window in your car to reduce the air pressure in your car. This is a great tip to practice for 24-hours after your windshield is repaired.
- Do not remove the retention tape for 48 hours.
- Close your car door gently.
- Avoid driving on gravel roads and driveways as loose stones may get stirred up and penetrate your windshield.