Windscreen Repair: Three Central Tips for Managing Small Cracks
Posted on: 14 August 2020
It is not uncommon for windscreens to sustain some damage after exposure to adverse road conditions. For instance, the auto glass can get cracked or chipped if there is significant impact from pebbles and debris on rural roads. If your vehicle has this type of damage, you should plan for immediate repair by a professional. This will restore good vehicle performance and ensure personal protection. If the damage is extensive, you might need to plan for the replacement of the windscreen. However, if the cracks are small, you can manage them until proper repair or replacement is possible. Here are some simple tips to help you keep the damage localised.
Inspect the Windscreen
You should inspect the windscreen before proceeding with any form of repair. The type and extent of cracking or chipping will be crucial in choosing an approach for restoration. The most common form of damage is surface scratching. The damage is superficial and does not have a significant effect on the performance of the auto glass. However, if the scratch is not eliminated, dust and dirt could build up and affect visibility and aesthetics.
Chips are also quite common. These are usually small holes which are caused by targeted mechanical impact. These holes might seem insignificant. However, they tend to spread if they are ignored. Most will cause cracks to extend from the main point of damage to the surrounding area. Additionally, cracks can form without chips. If the crack is small and not directly in the driver's line of sight, you can conduct simple repairs to prevent spread.
Plan on Filling the Cracks
It is important to stabilise cracks or chips if they are small and repairable. The goal should be to prevent the penetration of water, dust and dirt, which can widen and lengthen the crack. Moreover, a stable crack will not be as vulnerable to wind drag while driving. Under ideal circumstances, you should acquire a windscreen repair kit to handle the filling process. These have a specially manufactured resin which can be injected into the crack. Alternatively, fill the holes with clear nail polish.
Protect From Changes
Sudden changes in the ambient temperature can cause a crack to widen even when it has been filled. This can be attributed to the expansion and contraction of materials. Therefore, you should try to protect the windscreen from such variations until a professional can conduct repairs. For instance, it is advisable to park your vehicle in a shaded area to prevent stress from solar heat.
Contact a company that provides windscreen repair services to learn more.
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