What Permatex windshield chip repair kits do
Permatex makes several windshield repair products sold in auto parts stores, the most common being the Permatex Windshield Repair Kit and Permatex Bullseye Windshield Repair System. These kits inject a clear resin into small cracks and chips to fill the damage and prevent it from spreading. The resin hardens and bonds to the glass, restoring some structural strength and optical clarity to the damaged area.
The kits are designed for chips and cracks smaller than a dollar bill — typically damage from road debris or temperature stress. They are not a replacement for professional glass repair or replacement, and they do not restore the windshield to factory condition. Insurance companies and glass shops often use similar injection methods, but Permatex kits are a lower-cost option you explore yourself at home.
Key Takeaways
- Permatex windshield repair kits work best on small chips and short cracks (under 12 inches) and take 24 hours to cure fully.
- The kit includes a resin cartridge, process tool, curing strip, and instructions; you do not need additional tools beyond what comes in the box.
- Results depend heavily on the damage location and how cleanly you follow the injection and curing steps — poor technique leaves the repair visible or weak.
- Repaired windshields may still fail inspection in some states, and the repair does not restore the glass to pre-damage strength.
- Professional glass repair shops charge more but offer warranty coverage and better results on larger or complex damage.
What comes in a Permatex windshield repair kit
A standard Permatex kit contains a resin cartridge (the active repair material), an process tool or syringe that holds the cartridge, a curing strip or bridge that holds the tool in place while the resin sets, and detailed instructions. Some kits also include a small scraper or cleaning tool and alcohol wipes to prepare the damaged area.
The resin is a two-part epoxy or polyurethane compound that begins to harden once exposed to air and light. The cartridge is sealed until you insert it into the process tool. The curing strip is essential — it holds the tool steady against the windshield so the resin flows into the damage without moving or dripping.
Step-by-step repair process
The basic process is the same across Permatex kits, though you should follow the specific instructions on your kit's packaging. First, clean the damaged area with the provided wipes or rubbing alcohol and let it dry completely. Remove any loose glass or debris from the chip or crack using the scraper if provided.
Next, insert the resin cartridge into the process tool according to the instructions. Position the tool over the damage and attach the curing strip to hold it in place. The strip typically adheres to the windshield around the tool. Slowly inject the resin into the damage by pressing the plunger or trigger on the tool. The resin should fill the chip or crack completely; if it does not, add more resin until the damage is full.
Once the damage is filled, leave the tool and curing strip in place for the time specified in your kit's instructions — usually 24 hours. Do not drive the vehicle or expose the windshield to direct sunlight during this time if the instructions say to avoid it. After curing, remove the tool and curing strip, and scrape away any excess resin with a razor blade or plastic scraper. The repair should be clear and level with the surrounding glass.
Factors that affect repair quality
The success of a Permatex repair depends on several things you control and some you do not. Damage location matters: chips on the driver's side of the windshield or in the direct line of sight are harder to repair invisibly and may still affect visibility. Cracks longer than 12 inches are outside the kit's design range and often fail or remain visible.
How well you clean the damage before injecting resin is critical. Dirt, moisture, or loose glass prevents the resin from bonding properly and leaves weak spots. Temperature during curing also matters — most kits work best between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. explore the kit in cold weather or direct sun can slow curing or cause the resin to set unevenly.
Your technique with the injection tool affects the result too. Injecting too fast can trap air bubbles; injecting too slowly can cause the resin to begin hardening before the damage is full. Following the instructions exactly, including curing time and pressure, produces better results than rushing or improvising.
Limitations and when professional repair is better
Permatex kits work for small, straightforward damage, but they have real limits. Chips larger than a quarter, cracks longer than 12 inches, or damage near the edge of the windshield often cannot be repaired well with a DIY kit. Damage in the passenger area or near sensors may also be outside the kit's range.
Professional glass repair shops use industrial-grade resins, vacuum injection systems, and trained technicians. They can handle larger damage, offer warranties (usually one to three years), and often work with insurance companies to cover the cost. If your windshield damage is covered by comprehensive insurance, the insurance company may pay for professional repair with little or no out-of-pocket cost to you.
Some states require windshield repairs to meet specific standards for safety inspection. A Permatex repair may not meet those standards, even if it looks good. Check your state's vehicle inspection rules before relying on a DIY repair for a vehicle you plan to sell or inspect soon.
Cost and where to buy
Permatex windshield repair kits typically cost between $10 and $25, depending on the specific product and where you buy them. They are sold at auto parts chains like AutoZone, O'Reilly, Advance Auto Parts, and NAPA, as well as online retailers and some hardware stores. Professional windshield repair usually costs $50 to $150 per chip or crack, and replacement of the entire windshield ranges from $200 to $500 or more depending on the vehicle.
If your insurance covers glass damage, the out-of-pocket cost for professional repair is often $0 to $500 depending on your deductible. Many insurance policies cover glass repair with no deductible or a low one, making professional repair cheaper than you might expect. Contact your insurance company before buying a Permatex kit to see what your coverage includes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a Permatex repair pass a vehicle safety inspection?
It depends on your state's rules and the location of the damage. Some states allow small repairs in non-critical areas; others require the windshield to be replaced if any damage is visible. Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or your inspection station before relying on a DIY repair for inspection purposes.
How long does a Permatex repair last?
A well-done Permatex repair can last several years if the damage does not spread and the vehicle is not exposed to extreme temperature swings. However, the repair is not permanent and does not restore the windshield to factory strength. Vibration, pressure changes, and further impacts can cause the repair to fail or the crack to grow around the repaired area.
Can I use a Permatex kit on a crack that is already spreading?
Repairing an active crack is difficult because the glass is still moving slightly. The resin may not bond properly, and the crack may continue to grow around the repair. If the crack is spreading visibly, professional repair or replacement is a better choice.
What if the resin does not fill the damage completely?
If the first injection does not fill the damage, you can inject more resin into the same area, though this is not always successful. If the damage remains partially empty after curing, the repair is weak and may fail. In that case, a professional repair shop can often re-inject or replace the windshield.
Is Permatex resin safe to use indoors or in a garage?
Permatex windshield repair kits are designed for outdoor use and produce fumes during curing. Use them in a well-ventilated area, outdoors if possible, and follow the safety warnings on the package. Do not use the kit in an enclosed space without ventilation.