Every driver knows that their windshield is only one flying rock away from an annoying crack. The key to recovering from a smacked windshield is to stop a small break from becoming dangerous. Here’s how to stop a windshield crack from spreading.
Windshield Crack Causes
Windshields crack for all sorts of reasons. Some of the most typical reasons that your windshield might sport a crack include the following.
Debris
Road debris, such as stones, can fly against the glass and cause a crack.
Weather
Who hasn’t walked outdoors following a colossal hail storm worried that their car might be damaged? Unfortunately, hail is a common culprit behind significant windshield damage.
Temperature Changes
Dramatic temperature fluctuations can lead to a cracked windshield. Quick temperature changes cause the glass to expand and contract, which results in cracks in the glass.
It’s no fun when your windshield sustains damage. It’s normal to wonder if the crack will get worse or if you can leave it alone.
Don’t Ignore a Cracked Windshield.
It’s never a smart plan to ignore the crack in your windshield. While it’s true that windshields are robust structures, even minuscule cracks can lessen their strength. Your safety depends on driving with structurally sound auto glass.
Never disregard the hidden damage that lurks behind a crack. The normal bumps and jiggles that come with driving can cause the glass to shatter. Trust us; you don’t want to deal with a shattered windshield while you drive.
Here’s How to Stop a Windshield Crack from Spreading
Now that you know why you shouldn’t ignore a damaged windshield, let’s look at how to remedy it. In general, fixes range from temporary to permanent.
Quick Fixes
There are a host of quick, temporary ways to stop a crack from spreading across a windshield. After you thoroughly clean the area with warm water and a mild cleanser, use one of these tips as a temporary fix.
- Fill in the Edges of the Crack with Clear Nail Polish
- Fill the Crack with Super Glue
- Cover the Cracked Area with Clear Tape
The above tips will keep a hairline crack from turning into a giant fissure but won’t solve the underlying issue. For that, you might need to contact a professional auto glass repair shop.
Permanent Fixes
The type of permanent fix you’ll repair a windshield crack varies depending on its severity. Tiny cracks located outside of the driver’s immediate field of vision often respond well to a commercially prepared auto glass filer.
Often, you’ll achieve better results with a professional auto glass repair specialist. Kryger Glass, for instance, can quickly and expertly repair minor cracks to protect the integrity of your windshield.
Many superficial cracks are fixable with resin fillers. However, there are times when you should opt to replace the entire windshield. Examples of cracks that should lead to a glass replacement include long, deep, or in the driver’s sightline.
Last Thoughts
Lastly, understanding how to stop a windshield crack from spreading is essential to maintaining a safe automobile. Use our temporary and permanent repair fixes the next time that you notice the start of a hairline crack on your windshield. Your safety depends on a strong windshield.
Kryger Glass delivers top-level auto glass services throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area. Contact us today for affordable solutions to all of your glass repair and replacement situations.