Since the introduction of windshield repair solutions, there has been a lot of controversy surrounding these products. While a lot of people know how windshield repair kits work, a large portion doesn’t simply due to the lack of knowledge or misinformation. There are countless forum posts bashing windshield repair kits simply because users have been expecting them to perform what can only be described as miracles. 

To better understand the performance of windshield repair kits, we need to take a deeper look at the product. This will not help better understand its potential but also answer whether or not windshield repair kits actually work. Another way to make certain of the product’s capabilities is by looking at one of the most well-known brands in the industry — Permatex — and we’ll be doing just that. If you are interested in a windshield repair kit, we highly recommend going through this article before making a decision.

Windshield Damage — What Went Wrong?

If you haven’t experienced any sort of windshield damage and are only here out of curiosity, understanding what caused it will take you on the right path to fixing it. If the windshield is smashed by something like a metal rod, it’s certainly not going to be fixable. Smashed windshields are more common than many think and the only way they can be dealt with is by replacing the windshield altogether.

Things get more interesting when it comes to cracks and chips. Windshield cracks and chips are a lot more prevalent as they can be caused by just about anything. One of the most common causes of this type of damage is flying debris on highways. There’s a decent chance that the vehicle in front of you flings a small stone at your windshield. This wouldn’t be a problem at regular speeds, but the force of the stone increases significantly at highway speeds.

While many would consider this type of damage to be similar, it’s actually far from it. Cracks and chips are significantly different. What people also tend to not factor in is that the damage can be highly unique. As mentioned earlier, windshields can withstand a lot of stress but can fall short in certain scenarios.

Not only do windshields protect us from the elements, but they also act as a structural component of the vehicle. In most cases, they are made up of two glass layers that sit on either side of a laminated material. This center layer is what ensures pieces of glass don’t go flying everywhere in an accident. Thanks to its design, it’s known to provide structural support during front-end impacts and rollovers.

Can Windshield Damage Be Repaired?

Yes, windshield damage can be repaired with windshield repair kits if the crack or chip is within range. Smashed windshields are out of the question, so let’s move our focus to the chips and cracks that can be fixed. They can be repaired depending on the size, location, type, and depth. Furthermore, the results of the windshield repair kits will differ according to age, contamination, and more. It’s crucial to access all of this before conducting the repair.

If you take your vehicle to specialists for this job, they will go over the factors mentioned above before performing a repair. The specialists will make decisions based on each case individually and if you are performing the repair yourself, we recommend you do the same. This is necessary to perform a good repair.

Type of Windshield Damage

Let’s talk about different types of windshield damage. One of the most common types is known as the ‘Bulls-Eye’, this is because it features circular damage caused by a circular object. Then there’s the ‘Partial Bulls-Eye’ – only half of the damage is circular. Another common type is called ‘Star Break’, which has sharp cracks beginning from the center. There are also a few other specific types of cracks and chips. With that said, most of them can be repaired if the size remains within range.

Size and Depth

Speaking of size, it can’t be too large. Most windshield repair kits can fix chips as large as 1 to 1.5 inches. When it comes to cracks, around 3 inches is said to be ideal when it comes to windshield repair kits. Windshield repair kits have trouble fixing larger chips and cracks. At that stage, you would be better off replacing the windshield.

While some brands are working on windshield repair kits to fix larger damage, we are yet to see breakthroughs. That being said, there would be no harm in checking with a specialist near you as some are known to fix larger damage. It’s not common for chips to go too deep due to the strength of the windshield, but if that has occurred it will cause difficulties with the repair process.

Location

Another important factor that plays a role when it comes to windshield repair kits is the location of the damage. A small and well-isolated chip or crack can easily be repaired, but if it’s towards the edges it can become increasingly difficult. In fact, if the crack or chip is right near the edge it can compromise the strength and structural integrity of the windshield. 

There’s also the likelihood of the crack making its way to the tinted areas at the corners of the windshield. This would result in it being hidden and almost impossible to repair.

Windshield Repair Kits – Easy to Use?

Windshield repair kits are usually fairly straightforward in terms of usability. However, the top brands like Permatex distinguish themselves by being all-inclusive kits. When we say the Permatex windshield repair kits include everything you would require, it really does. 

Here’s everything you can find in their kit — Permatex windshield repair syringe and plunger, repair compound, 1 adhesive disc, 1 pedestal, 1 curing strip, 1 push pin, 1 razor blade, 1 alcohol towelette, 1 instruction sheet. Check out the Permatex windshield repair kit.

The instruction sheet is highly detailed and will take you through the process step by step ensuring that you get an airtight repair. While the long list of included parts might lead you to believe that this is a complicated process, it’s quite the contrary. Most of the tools included are to carry out simple steps like cleaning to get a clean and strong result. 

Keep in mind, Permatex has said the repair should be made in a shaded area with the windshield temperature between 50°F and 75°F. This is an important requirement if you want a professional outcome. 

Don’t Delay the Windshield Repair

When it comes to windshield damage, speed is of the essence. You see, delaying the repair even by a few days can significantly worsen the damage. Cracks will spread as time passes and can even reach the point of no return. At that stage, you will need an expensive replacement windshield. 

Similarly, a simple small like the ones mentioned above can develop cracks around it and make the repair process a lot more complicated. Lastly, delaying your order of one of the windshield repair kits will also cause the damage to get contaminated which will affect the outcome. Luckily, you are at the right place as we here at Newparts.com we offer highly rated Permatex windshield repair kits.