Windshield Repair Forum

I am new to the industry and have not attempted anything more than about a one inch crack. I have a couple of questions. #1 How long of a crack can you fix using just a basic kit? #2 do you drill anything from an inch on or do you just try to get the resin to flow on something around an inch? #3 Should I take on a longer crack without any experience? How would I go about getting experience? #4 can you fix a crack that begins to curve or do you stick to straight cracks.

Any informationm or insight at all is appreciated and if you can answer any of these specific questions it would help me.

Why not fill out your PROFILE and tell us a little about yourself and maybe someone close to you will chime in with an offer?

If your friends have cracks, offer to repair them free, just to gain the experience.
Straight cracks are less visible than curved cracks.

First get a practise screen or even 5, second if you have not already had some get some factory training, third practise like mad.
Do not do any repairs for any customers if you have any doubt about your ability, this trade is full of guys doing poor quality repairs, I am not saying you are one of them but just work within your skil level will help you succeed better.
You will find in all circumstances that a vertical crack is always easier to repair than a horizontal crack. Cracks are not hard to master and in many circumstances can be very lucrative. Do a search on this forum and you will find a lot of information on long crack repair.

I wish you luck with your business.

#1) I'd say depends on the kit. Most decent kits (delta or other) can handle cracks.
#2) Anything over an inch I believe is the norm to start drilling
#3) Depends on the customer. Some would be happy to have you have a go at the crack because they are just hoping to not have to purchase a whole new windshield. Many people figure they will have to have the windshield replaced, so why not give it a try? The customer will answer this question for you, and whatever you are comfortable with.
#4) Yes, as long as it is one continuous crack that doesn't fork. Again, what you are comfortable with.

I am definitely NOT the authority on crack repair, as I am new to the trade. This information is what I have gathered from the few cracks I have done, and the training I have received. Others will chime in with more authority here, but hopefully this will give you a base to start at. Try to find a practice windshield and put some cracks in it if possible and go from there. Also as Mr. Bill said, maybe try some on friends windshields if they are available.

Every day of the week we see repairs that have been carried out badly by poorly trained tech's. No I would not even call them techs. This takes work away from the proffesionals who took the time to learn the trade properly and also gives the trade a bad name. This is why I keep on about training and practise. On another note, when anyone ask's a question and we return with one it would be nice if they took the time to answer the questions, this would enable us to provide better answers and more detailed help.

Please note this is a general comment and is not aimed at any single person and I am sure it could do with its own slot.

Over to you Brent

All of the previous posts are right on the money in my opinion. Learning windshield repair is not difficult, but I certainly think training is important, and who you get your training from equally important. Personally I would start with training provided by the manufacturer of the windshield repair equipment you use, then if possible find someone to ride with for a day or two so you can get a feel for how the business end works.

I don't usually drill until a crack reaches about 3" unless I am having difficulty filling it. Not everyone drills long cracks, but I think most of us feel more comfortable with that technique. Try it both ways and test the practice glass for strength when you are finished.

Cracks that change directions can still be repaired, but sometimes they can present a challenge right at the point where the change occurs. Not a big deal, but something to be aware of. Don't skimp on the practice when it comes to long cracks. They are not hard, but it does take a little time for most technicians to get comfortable repairing them. You'll know when you are ready.

I think every technician should have a practice windshield regardless of experience. I've been doing this since the 80's and still like to practice new techniques that I hear about to see if they have merit or not.

I appreciate all of the input, I am definately open to as much training as I can get especially hands on from someone in the industry. I live in Sugar Land Texas but most of my work in in Houston. I am literally only 2 months into this and I put in my 2 week notice at my horticultural job in order to pursue this full time. If anyone knows someone that I can refer to in Houston let me know. Also it was requested that I fill out my profile. I am still figuring out this forum. I will search for where it allows me to do that and post it.

Sugar Land Texas, now that sounds sweet place to live. Sorry I could not resist I bet you get that all the time, it sure does sound better than Lincolnshire though, which is where I am.

GPrepairs;31546 wrote:I appreciate all of the input, I am definately open to as much training as I can get especially hands on from someone in the industry. I live in Sugar Land Texas but most of my work in in Houston. I am literally only 2 months into this and I put in my 2 week notice at my horticultural job in order to pursue this full time. If anyone knows someone that I can refer to in Houston let me know. Also it was requested that I fill out my profile. I am still figuring out this forum. I will search for where it allows me to do that and post it.

On the left side of your main forum screen near the top you should see "User CP". This is your control panel and from their you can make changes to your profile and customize your view of the windshield repair forum.

We have lots of customers in the Houston area, but they are not always willing to assist a competitor. Hopefully someone from the windshield repair forum will step forward to help. Delta Kits is considering another training class somewhere in Texas within the next 6 months or so, but nothing definite yet. Check the training page on the Delta Kits website month or so for updates on training dates and locations.