Has your windscreen got a chip or crack in it? Are you thinking about repairing it yourself with your DIY kit instead of taking it to the professionals? While this may be a good idea and save you time or money or just a way of being innovative, it comes with risks. The risks may present themselves during the repair process or after the repairs are done, and they include:
- Toxic products
The kit may come with clear liquid resin that you are instructed to inject into the chip or crack and allow it to harden. Resin releases toxic fumes into your lungs and eyes, especially when using it in a closed area. If it touches the skin or eyes, it causes extreme irritation and skin or eye damage can occur. If you have to use it, ensure the area is well-ventilated, and you are wearing safety gloves, safety glasses and safety clothing.
- Obscure vision
The repair can result in obscure vision. For example, it might result from improper application and curing of the resin, making it look opaque instead of clear when hardened. The resin can also drip to other parts of the windscreen, causing the window to appear unclear.
You might ask why auto shops don't have the same problem. When your windscreen is repaired in an auto shop, they follow critical steps to ensure that the glass they repair dries crystal clear and blend in with the surrounding glass.
- The windscreen structural integrity
When repairing the windscreen at home, you don't know if the repair will restore the entire windscreen’s structural integrity. As a result, the DIY job might jeopardise the windshield. In an auto shop, they will determine if the windscreen will be replaced or repaired depending on the size and location of the damage.
- Some kit requires ideal weather conditions
Sometimes curing and hardening of the resin need a special UV light. So when doing DIY repairs at home, you might have to leave in direct sunlight for up to several hours. It will be difficult to predict how long the resin will cure due to the lack of sun during winter.
- Not covered by insurance
Auto insurance companies do not cover DIY repairs.
- Don't prevent further cracking
DIY repair kits are not designed as a permanent solution. They are not durable and will not prevent your windscreen from breaking.
In some situations, DIY repairs can be more expensive in the long term. Therefore, it is wise to get your repairs done in an auto shop. Novus will assist you if you are looking for quality windscreen repairs. We are also mobile, so we can reach you anywhere. Visit our website to see our services or contact us for more information.