DIY vs Professional Glass Repair: What You Need to Know

When you notice a chip or crack in your windshield, you might wonder if you can fix it yourself. DIY kits are widely available and promise fast, affordable repairs. But are they really the best solution? Here’s how DIY repair compares to professional auto glass service.

Pros and Cons of DIY Kits

using the proper tools to open windshield by speers auto glass scaled

DIY repair kits can be convenient. They are inexpensive, easy to find, and allow you to address minor chips without waiting for an appointment. However, these kits have important limitations. Most are only effective on very small chips less than the size of a loonie, and they often fail to penetrate deeper cracks or remove trapped air and moisture.

According to NHTSA guidelines, improperly repaired damage can leave weak spots in the glass that compromise safety.

Risks of Improper Repair

When you use a DIY kit, you risk incomplete resin bonding or sealing. Even a small air bubble trapped in the crack can cause the damage to spread later. DIY repairs also may leave visible marks or distortions, especially in the driver’s line of sight.

Transport Canada highlights that repairs not performed to professional standards can fail under stress or temperature changes. You can read more in their defect investigations.

Professional Tools and Techniques

Professional auto glass technicians use specialized vacuum equipment to remove moisture and debris from the damaged area. They inject high-quality resin under pressure to ensure complete filling and curing. UV lights then harden the resin, restoring the windshield’s strength and clarity.

At Speers Auto Glass, our team provides comprehensive windshield repair services and guarantees repairs meet safety standards.

Cost Considerations

DIY kits can cost as little as $30, while professional repairs typically range from $80 to $150. However, most insurance policies will waive your deductible for professional repair, making it free in many cases. If you attempt a DIY repair and it fails, your insurer may require full replacement later, which costs much more.

It’s important to weigh short-term savings against long-term safety and costs.

When to Leave It to the Experts

Professional repair is strongly recommended if:

  • The crack is longer than 1 inch.
  • The damage reaches into the inner layer of glass.
  • There are multiple chips or cracks.
  • The chip is in the driver’s direct line of sight.

In these situations, DIY kits simply can’t guarantee a safe or lasting repair. Our technicians can evaluate your damage and let you know whether repair or replacement is the better option.

Contact Speers Auto Glass today to schedule your professional windshield assessment and enjoy peace of mind on the road.

Related Posts in This Series

 

Countinue reading...