The windshield repair business has exploded. Salt trucks apparently dumping gravel and roads being broken up by the thaw and freeze cycles has I think been the leading causes. Unfortunately the weather hasn't helped. While I can dry out chips filled with water, it does take extra time. It doesn't help that I must allow a little extra time also to cure the resin. Of course there are times you just can't work due to the sleet, snow, freezing rain, fog or just plain rain.

With calls coming in at a rate of every 5 minutes or less, for an hour or more at a time, I'm trying to meet the need. I have also warned about rushing repairs and windshield replacements and what can happen. Unfortunately some haven't heard or have ignored my words.

The photo below is of a repaired chip that wasn't dried out. As a result what could have been repaired, has now been turned into a windshield that most likely will crack out, besides looking ugly. The cost of replacement is around $235.

The rainbow of colors and silvery color is trapped water.

If you have gotten a chip follow the guidelines on our Windshield First Aid Page. If the vehicle has sat in a garage over night or for a number of hours on one of our few sunny days cover it with tape on the outside.

CAUTION: Before covering make sure it is dry.

DO NOT use Rain-X or any windshield treatment until the windshield is repaired. This includes washer fluid containing Rain-X or any windshield treatment. It can render the chip non-repairable.

For those that need their windshield replaced, every contact I have and some customers are stating they (the replacement shops) are booked days in advance. Make sure the replacement is done right. Here is a photo of a windshield replacement that was recently done. As you can see it wasn't done correctly. Rushing can make the replacement dangerous, as the windshield is a major safety component.

If you have a windshield that has a crack and it is on the outside layer of glass, you would be wise to wait until the shops catch up. While it is true that a cracked windshield is unsafe, a badly installed new windshield is more dangerous, since it can pop out in a crash.

For anyone needing a replacement I recommend you visit my other blog www.SafeWindshield.info before you purchase from anyone. There is a lot of information and links, so you can make a smart choice. Giving you the knowledge of what to ask and look for in a quality replacement.

Please remember, rushing windshield repairs can make junk; rushing replacements can be unsafe, dangerous and a killer in an accident.