The automobile windshield chip repair problem with ignoring the damage is that it will grow worse with time. Replacements have their downsides as well. Besides spending up to $350, you lose the original manufacture seal. Many replacements are done incorrectly and can leak and crack. What is the alternative?
First things first the chip should be repaired before it gets filled with grit. To do this, the chip needs to be drilled while the cracks in it get vacuumed. An acrylic or crystalene resin is then inserted via syringe into the chip to restore the air trapped in the crack. Afterwards it is dried with UV light which hardens the substance and reinstates the original state of the glass. Acrylic resin is made up of carcinogenic acid which turns the chips yellow over time. Crystalene resin has better clarity and doesn't change color over time. It's available at ultra-low consistency and high consistency. Extra resin is scraped away and then polished for a finishing touch. This kind of treatment usually runs about $45-$100.
The main question when you are seeking to fix a cracked windshield is whether to replace or repair the glass. Most auto glass shops will opt to repair a crack or chip, as long as it is not directly in front of the driver. They will use a clear resin that is dropped onto the crack and then fixed with an ultra-violet light. The clear resin will then cure and the crack will no longer be visible to the human eye. Most cracks or chips can be effectively fixed in this manner. This method can fix small cracks as well as larger spiderweb style cracks. If an actual hole is formed in the windshield or the crack has traveled too far, your best bet is windshield replacement near me.
Why do you think there is windshield repair? You got it, cost. Some insurance companies want you to repair rather than replace because of cost. They save a fortune if you repair your windshield. Also, you need to check with your state as to what is legal as far as windshield repair all states have different laws regarding this issue.
#3) Non-Complicated Equipment! It seems as though just about every company is trying to come up with another gimmick (bells & whistles) to add to their repair system. But, by over complicating the process they are making it difficult for new repair techs to get the hang of the repair process.
One way to find out about a companies reputation is to call other repair techs and ask them which company they bought their repair kit from and are they satisfied with it. Call the company itself and ask to speak to the owner. You will get a good feel for the company after having spoken with the customer service people and the owner.