I have been asked this question many, many times by those thinking about starting a windshield repair business: Why should I start a windshield repair business instead of some other type of business?



Connect the manifold gauge set as discussed above. Connect the yellow hose to the can tap valve and fix auto glass seat (turn clockwise) the valve. Close the blue gauge on the manifold gauge set. Open the valve on the can tap valve. Slowly open the valve on the blue or "low-side" gauge and let the refrigerant flow from the refrigerant can into the system until you see a reading of 60psi on the "low-side" gauge. TIP: Placing the refrigerant can in a pan of hot water will allow the vapor refrigerant to enter the A/C system quicker. WARNING: Do not invert the refrigerant can. Doing so will allow liquid refrigerant to enter the system resulting in a ruined compressor.

Automobiles are made so that a cracked windshield can be replaced; they are not made to be repaired. To my knowledge, manufacturers do not recommend or promote repairing windshields they recommend replacing them. A windshield is a structural part of the body and is in place for safety reasons. You shouldn't mess with the overall safety of the car by repairing a glass that is vital to safety during a rollover or accident.

If the chip is smaller than a quarter and the crack is less than 12 inches long, they would most likely provide service to you at the convenience of your home. The repair kit they will be bringing will contain several materials, tools and equipment. This would include a windshield repair bridge that is self-leveling and is able to reach anywhere on the windshield together with the injector. A crack expander that slides easily and reaches low on the windshield. An A.C. powered ultraviolet curing lamp and a 15 watt, 22 inches bulb for curing long cracks. A drill if the chip needs to be cleaned. A curing film that enhances the ultraviolet rays for faster and complete curing, a UV protected syringes designed to protect the resin from the sun's ultra violet rays, the resin and some other stuff.

On most car windows there is a small triangle printed from the manufacturer. Under the fix auto glass repair serial number is a small point with a number. This is the year of manufacture of the window. With popular car models this figure represents the model year. For example a 7 would indicate a model from 1997. If one window has an alternative number it may mean that the window has been replaced due chip or crack damage (windshield) or burglary (side window). If the windshield and side window have a different number from the rest of the windows, this could mean that the car has had a collision. Due to damage the windows have been replaced.

Clean up the front yard. Mow the grass. In the winter, shovel the driveway and the sidewalk. In the summer, add some flower pots. Wash the windows and window screens. Repaint the front steps.

Professional A/C technicians use an electronic leak detector to find leaks in an system. Use a battery-powered UV leak detector kit and special UV glasses. This kit can be purchased at auto supply stores and Internet A/C supply store fronts.

Now, you should have a better understanding of the benefits of windshield repair as opposed to replacement. Remember to shop around and look for the best price with top quality work. And also remember to speak with your insurance agent about windshield damage coverage. It may cost you little to nothing and you will have your windshield looking good as new.