If you notice a small crack or fracture in your vehicle's windshield, it is important to repair it as soon as possible. Small cracks can turn into big ones quickly and become a real safety hazard. Fortunately with tiny fractures, you should be able to make the repairs yourself. This guide will show you how to fix your car's windshield easily and effectively.

Find a Repair Kit

You can purchase car windshield repair kits at most auto parts stores as well as many big box stores. There are several different manufacturers of these kits, but the principal is generally the same. The kits are fairly affordable, and are designed to be easy to use. Look for kits that offer a strong bond and an easy process so you can make the repair quickly.

Starting Out

Before you begin the repair, it's very important that your car windshield is completely dry. If it is not, the repair kit's adhesive bond may not work properly. If it happens to be a rainy day, park your car in the garage and dry your windshield off completely. You can also use a hair dryer to help speed up the drying process. Make sure the window's surface is extremely clean as well, and do not use detergents or solvents when you clean it off. These can contain chemicals that will counteract with the material found in the repair kit, and prevent it from working properly.

Using the Kit

Most car windshield kits contain a one or two-part epoxy as well as a syringe to help you distribute the material into the crack. Others may contain a strip that is designed to fit right over the crack that contains the epoxy right on the surface. Open the kit and apply the adhesive strip evenly and tightly onto the crack or chip. Peel the film that should be located on the other side of the strip off. Open the syringe that contains the epoxy, and be careful not to let it drip out onto the car. Pull the handle out of the syringe and slowly run it over the crack. As you're doing this, it should create a vacuum that pulls the air from the crack and pushes the adhesive into it. Continue this process a few times, ensuring that the attached adhesive strip is forcing itself into the crack. 

Final Step

Once you've finished applying the adhesive using the syringe, you can remove the sheet. You'll notice a light film on the glass, but this can be removed with a paper towel dipped in alcohol. Make sure there is ample adhesive in the crack, and allow it to cure for a few hours to make sure it's completely bonded. If you notice any excess adhesive sticking out of the windshield, you can use a razor knife to cut it away after it's dry. This simple process should help fix your windshield and prevent that tiny chip or crack from becoming a much bigger and more serious one later on.

For assistance, talk to a windshield replacement professional.