The automobile windshield chip repair problem with ignoring the damage is that it will grow worse with time. Replacements have their downsides as well. Besides spending up to $350, you lose the original manufacture seal. Many replacements are done incorrectly and can leak and crack. What is the alternative?
I have seen this procedure first hand and walked away shaking my head wondering why anyone would want to do this to their windshield. Plus, if you haven't had a new windshield in a while it becomes pitted and is very difficult to see in the sun light or at night. If you have picked up a crack, more than likely it's been hit many times already and is probably pitted.
You can also choose to sell your windshield to a recycling shop. There are recycling shops which specialize in auto parts such as a windshield. New studies have shown that you can recycle the windshield and turn into glassware such as cups or glass mosaics. In some cases, the recycled components can even be turned into a flooring material. The money you make can help you buy a windshield replacement while giving new life to your broken component.
Use your defroster on high. Extremes in temperature are never a good thing for a cracked or damaged windshield. If you live in an area where you are required to use your defroster regularly, gently warm up the car over a period of time. It's also best to find a mobile windshield repair company that can do your repairs as soon as possible.
As you drive down the road, a small piece of gravel can hit your window and leave a chip. No matter how expensive your window is, the glass is still susceptible to chips. Leaving the chip alone can cause breakage and may lead to a full window replacement instead of just having it repaired.
Not all chips and cracks can be repaired when windshield damage occurs. It is definitely worth the time to have any damage evaluated by a professional to avoid further cracking and damage and eventual replacement.