Windshield repair is a process that requires a special resin to restore the structural integrity of glass. This resin is typically made up of acrylic acid, which etches the glass to provide maximum adhesion. It is important to note that this resin can cause sensitivity, so it is important to use it according to the instructions provided with the windshield repair kit. The resin used in windshield repair is attracted to glass more than it is to PVB (polyvinyl butyral).
This creates an intermolecular bond with the glass, but a mechanical bond with PVB. As the resin begins to cross-link with itself and with the glass, it will start to shrink and separate from the PVB. This can cause bubbles or voids with broken stones, and with cracks, it will repair a long, thin gap along the PVB called the corridor. Xtra Bond is a windshield repair resin primer that increases the adhesive bond of any resin to glass.
It performs a fundamental process in almost all adhesive applications, which is to prepare the surface so that it is ready for bonding. Windshield repair kits typically use epoxy resin to fill, seal, and stabilize minor damage that is one inch or less in diameter. They work best on small targets, chips, and stars, but for best results, drivers should get the repair done as soon as possible. When using a windshield repair kit, it is important to prevent UV waves from the sun from affecting your repair until you're ready to cure it.
Super glue can be used to stabilize small chips, but windshield repair kits use special resins explicitly designed to repair damaged glass. At no time will a windshield replacement company be able to successfully restore a windshield's factory seal. All chip and crack repairs carried out with the Ultra Bond system and resins restore more than 100% of the windshield's strength. From a safety point of view, a windshield, if not properly repaired, can be 60% compromised in the event of an accident or breakage.
