Most Common Reasons for a Broken Car Windshield

A windshield is vulnerable simply because it’s a large piece of glass on the front of a vehicle, so it is very exposed. Most of the time, damage to a windshield doesn’t happen because of an accident; however. Windshield damage requires prompt repair, but by understanding common causes of broken windshields, you can often keep yours intact.

Understanding Reasons for a Windshield Crack

Windshields face a variety of hazards, and anything from gravel to temperature shifts can cause damage.  Manufactured from tempered glass, windshields are engineered to absorb and distribute force from an accident. Unfortunately, this design makes them more prone to damage than other auto glass. Types of windshield cracks include chips, bullseye breaks, star breaks, and half-moon damage. If you ever notice a chip in your windshield, no matter how small, it’s important to get it repaired as quickly as you can. Small cracks and chips can often be repaired easily, but if left damaged, they can create safety hazards. Not only can they reduce your visibility, but a small chip or crack can compromise the integrity of the windshield and turn into a large crack just from the vibration of the car on the road or temperature changes. The crack will grow larger with time, and can cause so much damage that the windshield will need to be replaced.

Top Reasons Windshields Crack

So, what should you do to keep your windshield in good condition? Pay attention to these common hazards.

• Rocks and Road Debris: Rocks, gravel, and other types of debris can damage windshields and are often unavoidable. The tiniest pebble, thrown towards the windshield by another vehicle’s tire, can cause a surprising amount of damage to a windshield. While you cannot always avoid these little projectiles, there are things you can do to reduce your risk. Be careful not to tailgate, so that you are not near rocks kicked up by other vehicles. Perhaps most importantly, try not to drive behind large trucks like big rigs and dump trucks. The mud flaps on these vehicles throw debris further than the tires of smaller vehicles, so it’s best to stay clear of them.
• Weather Conditions: Extreme weather can damage homes and other large structures, so it can certainly damage something as vulnerable as a windshield. High winds can blow tree branches into the windshield, sudden weather shifts can cause a windshield to expand and contract, and hailstones can wreak havoc on your windshield. Parking in a garage or using a car cover can protect your windshield from this kind of damage. Be careful never to park under trees, and inspect your windshield regularly, so that you can catch small chips before they become major issues.
• Temperature Changes: Any time your windshield faces sudden shifts in temperature, the glass can expand or contract quickly, and this can lead to damage. This is why you should never pour hot water on a frozen windshield; it can cause stress fractures. Sometimes, even having the defroster on high when the weather is cold can cause this problem. Try to limit temperature shifts by gradually cooling or warming your windshield, using appropriate defrosting measures, and parking in the shade when possible.
• Stress Cracks and Structural Integrity: A windshield relies heavily on the structural integrity of the vehicle to remain intact. Additionally, aging windshields, especially those exposed to extreme environmental conditions, can become weak and prone to stress cracks. These can happen without any discernible cause, often starting at the edge of the windshield and moving towards the center. This is another reason to keep an eye on the windshield, looking for any tell-tale signs of damage.
• Poor Installation: If a windshield is improperly installed, it might not align with the frame correctly, and this can lead to uneven pressure on the glass. This can cause stress fractures, even without anything hitting the windshield. When you need to have your windshield replaced, make sure you choose a reputable company to install the glass, and inspect the installation for signs of water leaks, wind noise, or poor sealing, which can all be the result of improper installation.
• Manufacturing Defects: Just as poor installation can lead to a weak windshield, poor quality control during manufacturing can lead to windshields that are already weak before they are even installed

If You Have a Car with a Broken Windshield, Trust Auto Glass Solutions to Fix It

At Auto Glass Solutions, we understand broken windshields and can provide you with comprehensive auto glass repair services. With two convenient locations in Alberta, our family-owned and operated company provides a hassle-free experience, working quickly to repair or replace your windshield so that you can get back on the road. With over 30 years as a trusted service provider in Edmonton, AB, and the surrounding area, we have extensive experience and are committed to serving our local communities. Some repairs can be completed in about 20 minutes, and for customers who choose to wait at our location, we have a customer lounge with access to free Wi-Fi. No matter what kind of auto glass repair you need, reach out for a free quote or contact us for more information.