Windshield damage is so common that we don’t often give it a second thought or look when we notice a nasty crack on someone else’s windshield. Unless it’s on your own. Then it’s a level-ten inconvenience that spoils your mood and sours your day. Your car’s windshield is an essential component that protects you from the elements while driving and is a critical part of your vehicle’s structure. As such, it is a crucial safety feature that helps keep you and your passengers safe in the event of an accident. Your windshield is highly susceptible to damage, and a small chip or crack can quickly escalate into a significant issue if left unaddressed. In today’s post, we’ll share some of the more common causes of windshield damage.
At Jet Black Tint and Glass of Central California, we repair and replace car windshields and glass almost daily and we’ve heard all the stories of the causes of broken or damaged car glass. The California coastline is wild, but we are here to help. With a Central California distribution center and a solid partnership with Pilkington Glass, we can offer next-day appointments in most cases and work with your auto insurance to get the least out-of-pocket cost to you.
One of the most common causes of windshield damage is rocks and debris on the road. Small rocks and stones can be kicked up by other vehicles’ tires, causing chips or cracks on your windshield. If you frequently drive on unpaved roads or construction zones, the risk of windshield damage increases significantly. On crowded California interstates, small pebbles, and rocks are not uncommon. A small pebble hurled at your windshield when you’re moving at 70 miles an hour can easily pit your windshield, making it vulnerable to cracking.
To protect your windshield from rock chips and cracks, it is recommended to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles while driving, especially trucks and construction vehicles that are more likely to throw debris. Also, avoid driving on unpaved, gravel, or dirt roads. Another tip is to repair any chips or cracks as soon as possible, as they can quickly grow and lead to the need for a costly windshield replacement.
Debris on the road, such as loose asphalt, discarded trash, accident remnants, and animal or vegetation debris, kicked up by passing vehicles can cause damage to your windshield in the same way that rocks or gravel can. In addition, debris can cause damage to the paint and body of your car as well as seals and trim.
To protect your windshield from road debris, make sure to keep a safe distance from other vehicles on the road. Avoid following large trucks and buses too closely. Also, avoid driving on roads with known debris issues. Driving in the middle lane can help prevent you from encountering accident debris and discarded trash that tends to be pushed into the shoulder during regular driving.
Extremely high or low temperatures can also cause damage to your windshield over time, especially when there are already small chips or cracks. When external temperatures or barometric pressure drops rapidly, the glass contracts and can cause dramatic cracking. Similarly, when it gets very hot, the glass expands and can also cause cracking.
To protect your windshield from extreme temperature changes, try to park your car in a garage or shaded area. If this is not possible, use a windshield sunshade to block the direct sunlight and reduce the buildup of heat inside your car. Finally, avoid pouring hot water on an icy windshield to melt ice, as the drastic change in temperature can cause the glass to crack.
Incorrect installation of the windshield during replacement or repair can lead to further damage. If a windshield is not properly installed, it can become loose or pop out under pressure, leading to a potential safety hazard. This is more common when a windshield is replaced by a sub-par auto glass company.
To protect your windshield during installation or repair, always use a reputable and experienced auto glass repair shop. Make sure they have a good reputation and have experience in handling your particular make and model of vehicle. Also, check that they use high-quality adhesives and primers that meet or exceed OEM standards. At your Central California Jet Black Tint and Glass locations, we are certified and guarantee our work. We partner with Pilkington Glass, one of the top names in OEM and aftermarket auto glass.
Hailstorms have the ability to cause significant damage to windshields as well as the body of your car, especially if the hailstones are large and heavy. Hailstones can cause small dents, and cracks, or even shatter your entire windshield, especially if there are already chips or cracks present.
To protect your windshield during a hailstorm, try to park your car inside a garage or cover it with a thick blanket or tarp. If you are driving and get caught in a hailstorm, try to park your car under an overpass or in a covered area until the storm passes. After the storm, it’s important to assess your glass and car and make repairs right away before damage has the chance to spread.
Although not as common as other causes of damage, tree branches, falling objects, or flying birds can damage your windshield. This type of damage can range from small chips to larger cracks or even a completely shattered windshield.
To protect your windshield from falling objects, try to park your car in a safe area away from trees, power lines, and other overhead hazards. When driving, be aware of any trees or objects that could potentially fall onto your vehicle and take necessary precautions, especially during storms.
It’s important to take steps to protect your windshield and auto glass from damage and to address minor damage quickly. By protecting your windshield, not only are you keeping your vehicle safe, but you’re also protecting yourself and your passengers while on the road. When you identify windshield or auto glass concerns, connect with your local Jet Black Tint and Glass for quick repair or replacement today!
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