The reason that cracks often start on the edges of the automobile windshield chip repair is because the edges are the structurally weakest area. The frit is on the glass because it keeps the ultraviolet light from the sun away from the polyurethane seal that holds the windshield in the frame. Without the frit, the windshield would quickly start leaking or just pop out of the frame of the car.
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.
If you do decide that windshield replacement is your best bet, you have a few choices. First of all, make sure you check to see if your insurance covers it. In a lot of instances it does. The problem is that many policies have a deductible that is higher than the cost of the replacement or repair job. If that is the case, you will have to pay for it yourself.
Now you have 3 options. You can pay out of pocket, you can have your insurance company cover the cost, or you can do the repair yourself. The cost out of pocket will vary from $30-$60, depending on the company you chose. Filing with insurance is easy because it is no cost to you, and the auto glass repair company deals with the paperwork. You can also attempt the repair yourself, but if you do not feel comfortable, i would suggest calling a professional. There is a good step by step windshield repair Instructable available, as well as other information online.
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.
Pre-resin treatment suspension method is commonly used to repair a damaged windshield. PRISM is offered in many locations. Auto shops, car dealers, and even car washes may provide this service. It takes a small amount of time and is well worth the effort. The car owner and the person responsible for the damage should speak to the insurance company before the repair is completed. Since in the majority of times these cracks were not because of the car owner's actions, they may not see their insurance rates rise after the repairs are made.