If you’ve found yourself staring at a chip in your windshield and wondering whether to repair or replace it, you’re not alone. I’ve had this conversation with countless customers right here in Ontario, and it’s amazing how many think replacing is the only option. Truth is, there’s often a better choice — one that saves you money, time, and even helps the planet. Let’s dig in.
How do I know if I should repair or replace my windshield?
Think of your windshield like a pair of glasses — if there’s a small scratch, you don’t throw them out, you fix them. If the chip or crack is small (about the size of a $1 coin), a professional can usually fix it in under an hour. But if the damage is in your line of sight or reaches the edge of the glass, you might need a full replacement. It’s important to have every chip or crack checked by a professional to see if it’s safe to repair or if the whole windshield should be replaced. DIY kits might seem like a quick fix, but they often don’t hold up and can make the problem worse. At Uniglass Plus, we use special tools, top-quality resin, and expert skill to fix the damage the right way — saving you time, money, and your original glass.
Why is windshield repair better for the environment than replacement?
Replacing a windshield means sending hundreds of pounds of laminated glass and plastic to recycling plants — or worse, landfill. Repairing it? That uses only a few grams of resin and keeps your existing glass on the road for years longer. According to studies from Instant Windscreens and Metro Auto Glass, a single repair can prevent up to 20 kg of CO₂ emissions compared to manufacturing and transporting a new windshield. In other words, fixing that chip is one of the easiest ways to lower your carbon footprint while keeping your car safe.
Is repairing my windshield cheaper than replacing it?
Absolutely. A proper car windshield repair usually costs a fraction of a full replacement — often less than half. And since repairs are quick, you’re also saving on your own time. Add in the fact that many insurance plans cover repairs with no deductible, and you might be looking at zero out-of-pocket expense. The DIY route can seem even cheaper at first, but when that home-repaired chip spreads into a long crack, you’ll still end up paying for a full replacement. It’s a bit like patching your roof with duct tape — short-term savings, long-term regret.
Does a repaired windshield last as long as a new one?
When done right, yes. The resin we use chemically bonds with the glass, restoring much of its original strength. A good repair can last for the remaining lifespan of your car, provided you don’t ignore new damage in the future. Compare that to a DIY kit, which often leaves tiny air bubbles or weak spots that can turn into cracks with the first big temperature change. By trusting a windshield repair expert, you’re getting a fix that’s built to last, not just a temporary bandage.
Does repairing my windshield support local recycling efforts?
Yes, indirectly. Every windshield we save from replacement reduces the strain on recycling centres. While Uniglass Plus offers a dedicated recycling service for glass that truly can’t be saved, the best recycling is reusing what you already have. It’s the same logic as reusing a shopping bag instead of recycling it — less processing, less waste, more benefit for the environment.
What other services can protect my car and the planet?
Once you’ve experienced the savings and eco-benefits of a repair, you might be curious about other ways to extend your vehicle’s life and reduce waste. At Uniglass Plus, we also offer:
- Windshield replacement when repair isn’t possible
- New car floor mats to protect interiors and reduce carpet waste
- Rust proofing & paint protection for longer-lasting bodywork
- Window tinting for better energy efficiency in hot weather
- Tire repairs & replacements to maximise tire life
- Car electronics installations — GPS systems, rearview cameras, cruise control, sound systems, and more
Fix It Today – Save Money & the Planet
Don’t wait for that chip to turn into a costly crack. Our expert windshield repair restores strength, keeps your original glass, and helps reduce landfill waste — all in under an hour. Book now and drive away with a safer, greener car today.