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Got a Chipped Windshield? 4 Solutions to Keep It From Spreading
The windshield is an integral safety restraint system of a car as it protects you from UV radiations, debris, and weather elements, such as rain. In addition, in modern cars, the windshield supports passenger-side airbags as well as seat belts. The safety of a windshield explains why your car can fail an MOT check if it is cracked or chipped; hence, the need for immediate repair or replacement. You can avoid the costly burden of replacing your chipped windshield by preventing it from spreading using these ideas.
Seal the Chip
A car’s windshield is more resistant to breaking than regular grass, but flying debris will penetrate the laminated safety glass. The laminated safety glass stays in one piece by evenly distributing pressure exerted by the outside environment. A small chip will disturb the weight and pressure distribution, thereby spreading the crack. Sealing using super glue or clear nail polish will make your windshield more stable. Nonetheless, sealing should be a temporary fix as you prepare for professional windshield replacement.
Use a Windshield Repair Kit
A windshield repair kit prevents chip spreading on your screen using epoxy resin, which fills, stabilizes, and seals the minor chip. Perfectly applying epoxy resin on the minor chip will help achieve a glass-like consistency; hence, preventing spreading. Once you buy the right windshield repair kit, you should clean the provided razor blade so that the epoxy resin can harden properly. Nonetheless, you should only use a windshield repair kit for a chip measuring less than one inch in diameter.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures
The chances of a chip turning into a crack depend on the weather conditions. Windshield glass expands and contracts when exposed to heat and cold, respectively. The chances of a chip spreading into a crack increase by 80% during low temperature since the windshield becomes more concave, putting pressure on the chip. The spread is highly likely to spread horizontally. On the other hand, high temperatures result in vertical spreading because of shape distort.
Schedule Professional Windshield Repair or Replacement
Driving with a chipped windshield compromises your safety and makes you a target for a ticket. Even though sealing and using a windshield repair kit can prevent it from spreading, you should consider replacement as the permanent solution. Scheduling an appointment with a windshield repair expert is an ideal option if the chip exceeds 10mm in diameter as they understand how to repair chips regardless of the size.
The windshield is an integral safety component in your car that should be kept in good condition. Chips and cracks compromise your safety because the windshield is attached to safety elements, such as airbags and seat belts. Before seeking professional windshield replacement, you should prevent the chip from turning into a crack using these ideas.
