Novus is a windshield repair and replacement company with locations across North America
Novus Auto Glass is a chain that handles windshield repair, replacement, and related glass work on vehicles. They operate hundreds of locations in the United States and Canada, and they work with insurance companies — meaning your insurer may cover the cost partly or fully depending on your policy and the damage type.
The company focuses on two main services: repairing small chips and cracks (usually without replacing the whole windshield) and replacing windshields entirely when damage is too severe to fix. They also handle side windows, back glass, and sunroofs on most vehicle types.
Novus is one of several national chains that do this work. Others include Safelite, Glass America, and regional independent shops. The choice between them often comes down to location, insurance coverage, and appointment availability rather than major differences in the work itself.
Key Takeaways
- Novus repairs small chips and cracks in windshields without full replacement when the damage is minor enough to fix.
- Insurance often covers windshield repair or replacement, sometimes with a deductible you pay out of pocket.
- You can schedule a Novus appointment online, by phone, or through your insurance company's claims process.
- Mobile service means a technician can come to your home or workplace rather than you driving to a shop location.
- The repair or replacement process typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, though replacement may take longer depending on the vehicle.
How to find a Novus location near you
Novus has a location finder on their website where you enter your zip code and see nearby shops with their hours and phone numbers. You can also call their main customer service line to find the closest location and ask about current wait times.
Many Novus locations offer mobile service, meaning a technician comes to you instead of you driving to the shop. This is especially useful if your windshield is damaged enough that driving feels unsafe, or if you cannot easily get to a location during business hours. You can request mobile service when you schedule your appointment.
What happens when you schedule a repair or replacement
When you call or book online, you will need to provide your vehicle's year, make, and model, plus a description of the damage (chip, crack, how large, where on the windshield). The Novus representative will tell you whether the damage can be repaired or requires replacement, and give you an estimate of the cost or what your insurance may cover.
If you have comprehensive auto insurance, you can mention this during booking. Novus works with most major insurers and can often file the claim on your behalf or coordinate directly with your insurance company. You will typically pay your deductible (often $0 to $500 depending on your policy) and the insurer covers the rest.
You will choose an appointment time — either at a shop location or for mobile service to your home or workplace. Bring your insurance card and driver's license to the appointment.
Repair versus replacement: what determines which one you get
A repair is possible when the damage is small — usually a chip or crack less than 12 inches long and not directly in your line of sight as the driver. The technician injects a special resin into the damaged area, which hardens and restores the windshield's strength. Repairs cost less than replacement and take 30 minutes or less.
Replacement is necessary when the crack is too large, too close to the edge of the windshield, or in a location that affects your view of the road. Replacement also happens if the windshield has multiple cracks or if the damage is in the area where the camera or sensors mount (common on newer vehicles). A full replacement takes 45 minutes to an hour and costs more, but insurance usually covers most of it.
The Novus technician will assess the damage in person and let you know which option applies to your situation. You do not have to decide in advance — they will determine it when they see the windshield.
What your insurance typically covers
Most comprehensive auto insurance policies cover windshield damage, either through your comprehensive coverage or through a separate glass coverage option. Coverage usually means the insurer pays for the repair or replacement minus your deductible.
Some policies have a $0 deductible for glass repair specifically, meaning the insurer covers the full cost. Others have a standard deductible ($250, $500, or $1,000) that applies to all comprehensive claims, including glass. A few insurers offer a separate glass deductible that is lower than your regular deductible.
If you do not have comprehensive coverage or your policy excludes glass, you will pay the full cost out of pocket. Novus can give you a price quote before the appointment. Repair costs typically range from $60 to $150, while replacement ranges from $200 to $600 depending on the vehicle, though these figures vary by location and vehicle type.
After your repair or replacement is complete
If you had a repair, the resin needs time to cure — usually a few hours. Novus will tell you how long to wait before driving and whether there are any restrictions (such as avoiding car washes). The windshield will be fully functional when ready, but the resin continues to harden over the next 24 hours.
If you had a replacement, the new windshield is installed with adhesive that also needs to cure. You will typically be asked not to drive the vehicle for at least an hour after replacement, and some technicians recommend waiting longer before closing the doors hard or going through a car wash. Novus will give you specific instructions based on the adhesive they used.
If you notice any issues after the work — such as a leak, a rattle, or the repair not holding — contact Novus to report it. Most shops offer a warranty on their work, though the length and terms vary by location and the type of damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive my car right after a windshield repair?
Yes, the windshield is safe to drive on when ready after repair. However, the resin continues to harden for a few hours, so Novus may ask you to wait before using the car wash or driving on rough roads. Ask the technician for specific timing based on the weather and the type of resin used.
What if my insurance does not cover the full cost?
You will pay the difference between what your insurance covers and the total bill. If cost is a concern, ask Novus whether they offer payment plans or discounts for uninsured repairs. Some locations have promotions for cash payments or first-time customers.
How long does a windshield replacement take?
A replacement typically takes 45 minutes to an hour from start to finish. You should plan to wait at the location or stay home if using mobile service. The adhesive needs to cure for at least an hour before you drive, so factor that into your schedule.
Will my windshield replacement look exactly like the original?
The new windshield will be the same type and fit as the original, but it may not be the exact same brand or tint if the original is no longer made. The fit and function will be identical. If your vehicle has sensors or cameras mounted on the windshield, Novus will recalibrate them as part of the replacement.
What if the damage happens again after repair?
If the same spot fails or a new crack appears in the repaired area within the warranty period, Novus will typically repair or replace it at no charge. The warranty period varies by location, so ask about it when you schedule. Damage in a different location is a separate claim and would be handled as a new repair or replacement.