No matter how strong we think our windshields are, they’re still susceptible to minor and major damage. The smallest chip could make the biggest impact. It’s important to be aware of what can damage your windshield, so here are the seven most common causes and how you can prevent them.
Car Accidents
The explosion of windshield glass is the usual image one would think of when picturing a car accident. However, even the most minor accidents can result in the formation of small cracks in the glass. The frame of the windshield can also become deformed during an accident, weakening the glass further. It’s important to practice safe driving methods to reduce your risk of getting into an accident.
Extreme Temperatures
Like many materials, windshield glass will expand in warm temperatures and contract in colder ones. Even though glass specifically made for vehicles is designed to minimize any thermal strain, long term extreme temperature exposure can result in cracking. If you live in a climate that experiences fast weather shifts, then you’re at a higher risk of developing cracks in your windshield.
Incorrect Installation
Having a windshield installed incorrectly can result in a loose fit that will cause high levels of vibration to occur. This vibration can cause cracking in the glass. It’s important that you visit a reputable auto shop when it comes to windshield installation, for your safety and the safety of others in your vehicle.
Low-Quality Glass
You’re much more likely to experience windshield damage with cheap windshield glass, as it’ll contain more manufacturing defects that high-quality glass. The defects and overall weakness of the windshield might not be visible at first, but it’ll soon become obvious when a small chip turns into a large crack in no time.
Rapid Pressure Changes
Even though automotive glass is some of the strongest out there, it can still develop stress fractures in certain situations. One of those situations involves rapid pressure changes. A rapid change in pressure can occur from driving at very high speeds. An extreme pressure change, on the other hand, occurs when an object falls or presses onto the windshield.
Rock Chips
While small chips in your windshield might not seem like much of a problem in the beginning, they can spread out over time, causing spiderweb cracks that take up a large chunk of your window. These chips form when small objects hit your windshield at high-speed, usually resulting from gravel, road or construction debris. To keep your windshield safe from rock chips, increase your distance when behind larger vehicles hauling cargo.
Storm Debris
Natural, randomly occurring storms can easily cause damage to your windshield, through cracking or chipping. Even though hailstones are the most common storm debris culprit, high winds can cause tree branches, litter and other projectiles to hurtle your vehicle. High-speed debris can produce the same damage to your windshield as a rock, causing small chips that can expand over time into larger issues.
At Ceramic Pro, we manufacture and sell the world’s leading nano-ceramic coating technology for your vehicle. Whether you need windshield protection or a window tint, we provide a multifunctional protective coating that covers any and all surfaces. For more information about our products, visit our website.
