If you’ve had a chip or small crack in your windshield professionally repaired with resin, you might be wondering: how long will it hold? The answer depends on a few key factors—but a properly done resin repair can last for years, and often for the life of your vehicle.
At RAM Auto Glass, we use high-quality resin, UV curing, and certified application techniques to ensure every repair is both strong and lasting. Here’s what to know about resin repairs, their lifespan, and how to maximize their durability.
What Is Windshield Resin Repair?
Resin repair involves injecting a special clear adhesive into the chip or crack in your windshield. Once filled, the resin is cured using UV light and then polished smooth to restore visibility and prevent the damage from spreading.
This method is commonly used for:
- Stone chips smaller than a loonie
- Hairline cracks less than 6 inches
- Damage that hasn’t reached the glass edge or driver’s field of view
How Long Does It Actually Last?
When done properly, a resin repair can last for years—or even the life of your windshield. But that’s assuming:
- The repair was done soon after the damage occurred
- No moisture or dirt had time to contaminate the crack
- High-quality resin and curing tools were used
According to I-CAR and NHTSA, proper bonding and curing are essential for long-term strength and visibility.
What Can Cause a Repair to Fail?
Even well-done resin repairs can sometimes fail under certain conditions. Common causes include:
- Extreme cold or heat: Ontario’s freeze-thaw cycles can test even strong repairs
- Improper curing: Low-quality tools or insufficient UV exposure may weaken the bond
- Additional impacts: New road debris striking near the repair may reopen or spread the crack
- Contamination: Moisture, dust, or glass powder left inside the chip before sealing
How to Make Your Resin Repair Last Longer
Here are a few simple ways to extend the life of your repair:
- Get chips repaired within 1–3 days of spotting them
- Avoid using high-pressure car washes for 48 hours post-repair
- Don’t slam doors or blast your defroster against a cold windshield
- Monitor the area periodically for signs of spreading or haze
When to Replace Instead of Repair
If the crack is longer than 6 inches, near the edge of the windshield, or directly in your line of sight, it’s best to replace the entire glass. Resin repairs work best on contained, stable damage—not structural weaknesses.
We’ll always advise you honestly—if the repair won’t last, we’ll recommend a safe and affordable replacement instead. Every install is backed by our written warranty.
Insurance May Cover It All
Most comprehensive insurance policies cover chip repair at no cost to you. That means you can get a mobile repair—same day—in your driveway or parking spot, without worrying about payment. We help you file the paperwork and bill the provider directly.
Trusted Resources on Repair Durability
- I-CAR: Windshield Repair Procedures
- NHTSA: Auto Glass Standards
- CAA: What You Should Know About Glass Repairs
Related Reading
- Does a Small Windshield Chip Always Require Repair?
- Is It Safe to Drive With a Chipped Windshield?
- What Kind of Damage Can Be Repaired in Windshields?
Book a Chip Repair That Lasts
Don’t take chances with your safety. RAM Auto Glass offers mobile windshield chip repairs using advanced resin and curing systems. Whether you’re in Vaughan, Mississauga, Thornhill, or nearby—we’ll come to you.
Call now or book online at (647) 777-7080 for reliable, long-lasting glass repair.