Noticed a crack or chip in your windscreen? It may be tempting to try DIY windscreen repair – but beware, as this option may seem like an easy, inexpensive choice when actually it could cause major headaches further down the line. Not only can DIY repair exacerbate the problem and make your vehicle unsafe to drive, but you may also incur further costs to correct any mistakes.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the pitfalls of DIY windscreen repair, and how best to correct any issues to save yourself time, money and risk.
If motorists are seeking to fix windscreen damage themselves, usually they purchase a DIY repair kit online. Kits have different contents depending on who you buy them from, but usually contain resin to fill the crack, tools to administer resins, and other materials. While these kits seem like they have everything you need to correct the problem, they are lacking the experience and skill of a professional, and if poorly carried out, a DIY repair job can actually worsen the issue.
Before leaping straight to DIY repair, have you checked whether it’s covered in your vehicle insurance? If so, you can get it professionally fixed with very little hassle and zero cost. If the repair is not covered in your insurance, you may opt for DIY repair to save money. However, this isn’t true if the job is done badly or if underlying problems fly under your radar – at the end of the day, only a professional can identify any complications and the correct course of action. A botch or ineffective job can, therefore, incur costs further down the line.
Did you know? There are multiple types of window cracks, chips and damage which may require different approaches. Lack of expert knowledge could result in you repairing the crack ineffectively or not in line with the particular sort of damage that is present. If you get a chip or crack repair wrong, it often cannot be redone and may result in the need for more complex and costly repairs to correct your mistake. Whereas a specialist windscreen repair company will quickly be able to identify the type of damage and administer the correct fix.
Even if you are a DIY boffin, there are certain things about windscreens that only a professional will know. For example, an expert will be able to identify hidden dangers of cracks depending on their placement and severity – and in some cases, windscreen replacement is actually the safer option rather than repair. Failure to consult with a professional can result in these technicalities being missed, which may lead to you driving an unsafe vehicle which will only need further attention.
Finally, even the most practical people may find it tricky to fill in some windscreen damage themselves. You may find DIY windscreen repair then becomes a lengthy, difficult process as opposed to the quick, convenient repair performed by a professional.
Windscreen cracks and chips can impact vehicle safety and legality which is why it’s best to consult a professional on the matter. This way, the problem can be corrected to safe and roadworthy standards rather than risking further dangers and costs developing down the line from a well-meaning but potentially ineffective DIY repair.
Here at The Windscreen Company, we make it easy and affordable to repair your windscreens across the South East. Our experts work with insurance claims to keep the process simple, and we can take on any vehicle, any glass and at any time, thanks to our same-day repair service. Our professionals are here to get you safely back on the road in no time at all – just get in touch!
The Windscreen Company, has over 20 years of experience in windscreen repair and replacement. Since 1998, they have been at the forefront of industry innovation, leveraging the latest technology to ensure customer safety and satisfaction.
The Windscreen Company's, help-and-advice pages offer valuable tips and guidance on maintaining vehicle safety through quality windscreen care, while also featuring updated industry realted content.
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