Imagine this scenario: you are driving your car and out of nowhere a rock smashes your windscreen. The impact made a little chip on your windscreen, but luckily, you are safe and sound. Your windscreen has done its job, right? However, if ignored, that small chip can lead to even more damage to your windscreen and compromise your safety.
If you notice a small crack on your windscreen, you need to take the proper precautions.
Why it’s important to quickly address windscreen chips and cracks
- Further Damage: Any type of windscreen crack will eventually grow if not treated properly. It will spread across the entire windscreen and bring it to a state beyond repair. Replacing a windscreen is more costly than repairing a small crack. As a result, it’s important to fix windscreen problems as soon as possible.
- Safety Issues: The windscreen contributes a lot to a vehicle’s structural integrity. As a result, any type of damage to it can directly affect your safety while on the road. Not only does it act as a shield while you’re driving, but it can also keep the car’s structure from collapsing during an accident. This can protect you from suffering serious injuries.
- Legal Reasons: In Western Australia, any chip or crack on a windscreen that affects the driver’s vision is illegal. So, it’s better to solve the problem as soon as possible.
The following are some of the most effective DIY ways to stop a windscreen crack from spreading. Keep in mind that these are not permanent fixes. Your windscreen will still need to be repaired or replaced by a professional.
Nail Polish Method
One of the easiest ways to stop the windscreen crack from spreading is by applying nail polish to the crack. Because it’s such a simple method, some might doubt its effectiveness. But, simple nail polish can prevent further damages until you can get your windscreen repaired.
Before you start, you need to clean the glass surface with a paper towel or glass cleaner. This step removes all the dirt and contaminants that are stuck in the cracked surface. After it’s all clean, you can begin the repair.
Apply the nail polish to the crack and let it dry. Once you are done with its application, cover the chipped surface with clear packing tape. It will provide temporary support to the windscreen until you can get a professional to repair it.
It’s important to use clear nail polish for this purpose as you don’t want it to obstruct your view when driving.
Super Glue Method
Super glue is a knight in shining armour for almost anything that is broken. Windscreen chips are no exception. Super glue can be an effective method to prevent further windscreen damage.
Just like with the nail polish method, you have to clear the windscreen of dirt and leftover glass fragments before you start the repair. Afterwards, apply the superglue in and around the crack and let it dry. The dried portion will hold the cracks in their place and restrict any further growth until you can get your windscreen repaired by a professional.
Windscreen Repair Kit
If you want a proper solution and don’t want to rely on the superglue and nail polish method, then a windscreen repair kit is the way to go. This method is popular among those who love DIY projects. You just need to buy a windscreen repair kit from your local hardware store and follow the instructions.
These kits are simple to use. The entire process hardly takes 20 minutes to finish. These kits can help to repair cracks up to 30mm in width and 100mm in length.
Keep in mind that this is a temporary solution. Also, if you notice a crack that is too large, consult a professional as soon as possible.
Keep Your Car Away from Extreme Temperatures
To protect your windshield, it’s important to keep it away from extreme temperatures. Glass expands and contracts when exposed to hot and cold temperatures. While a pristine windscreen can handle these stresses, a chipped or cracked windscreen might give in.
The sudden temperature changes can make your windscreen vulnerable to further cracking. The best way to avoid further damage is to park your car in the shade until you can get the windscreen repaired or replaced. While you’re at it, don’t use the window defrosters as well.
Get Your Car into See A Pro
The methods mentioned above are temporary. When you can, you should seek the assistance of an expert. They will know how to properly repair those cracks and chips, keeping you safe while on the road. Getting your car windscreen repaired by a professional as soon as possible can save you money in the long run. Don’t stick to these temporary solutions. By avoiding proper professional repair work, you will be compromising your safety while on the road.
Remember, there are limits for DIY repairs. A crack longer than three inches can’t be repaired through the methods mentioned above. In such cases, these professionals will have to help you with the windscreen replacement process.
Final Thoughts:
These methods will help you prevent further damage to your windscreen. Apply these solutions if you have to. However, as soon as you get the chance, see a professional to get your windscreen repaired. Also, it is advisable to service your car regularly with professionals to detect such minor damage whether it is in the windscreen or any other components of your car.
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