6 Common Causes of Windshield Damage and How to Avoid

Windshields are among the most commonly damaged parts of a car, given that it’s constantly exposed to elements such as wind, rain, dust, and other debris as you drive. Minor cracks and chips may seem insignificant at first glance, but windshield damage can actually cause numerous safety hazards if left unchecked.

For instance, the damage on your car’s windshield can obstruct your view while driving, increasing the risk of accidents. Moreover, your windshield is important in maintaining the structural integrity of your vehicle by supporting the roof and ensuring that your airbags are deployed properly in case of an accident. Hence, if you see even a small crack or chip on your windshield, it’s crucial to call for professional auto glass repair in Ontario CA or in your local area to make sure you stay safe as you drive.

As a responsible driver, you should also be aware of the common causes of windshield deterioration so that you can be proactive in minimizing any such damage that occurs. Here are some potential hazards to watch out for to protect your windshield.

1. Road Debris

One of the main functions of your windshield is to protect you from debris as you drive. As it does its job, however, it also becomes more prone to damage over time. Even small rocks or gravel hitting your windshield can cause chips and cracks to form, which can expand further when exposed to extreme temperature and vibrations.

While it might be impossible to completely avoid road debris, you can still lessen the chances of debris hitting your windshield by maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles. Trucks in particular are prone to kicking up debris, so watch out for them during your drive. Slow down if you’re driving on gravel roads or construction areas to reduce risk of rocks hitting your windshield.

2. Rapid Temperature Changes

During hot days, it can be tempting to switch your air conditioning on full blast as soon as you get into your car to cool off. However, sudden shifts in extreme temperatures can actually cause stress on your windshield glass, causing it to develop cracks and form small chips. To lessen the stress on your windshield, try to gradually change temperatures in your car instead.

For instance, instead of turning air conditioning on right away, open your car’s windows first and let the interior cool down for a while. Take extra measures to protect your windshield from being exposed to extreme temperatures as well, such as using a windshield cover if you anticipate your car being parked in cold conditions for a long period.

3. Hail Damage

If you live in an area that’s prone to hailstorms, then you’re probably well aware already of the damage that hail can cause on windshields. The direct impact of hard ice pellets can create cracks on your windshield, with larger hailstones causing even greater damage to the glass entirely. To avoid hail damage on your car’s windshield, always check the weather forecast so you can avoid driving when there’s a predicted incoming hailstorm. If you’re already driving, however, consider taking shelter in a covered parking lot first to protect your car. You may also look into hail-resistant car covers as an alternative in cases when there’s no covered parking nearby for your car to take shelter in.

4. Poor Installation or Faulty Glass Quality

Poor installation or low-quality glass also makes your windshield more vulnerable to damage and can lead to more costly repairs down the road. Therefore, you should always go to reputable auto glass repair and replacement professionals to ensure your windshield is installed properly and is made of high-quality glass that meets proper safety standards. If you’re unsure where to take your car, then check for recommendations from family and friends or look into online reviews first to guarantee that the shop attending to your car will do an excellent job.

5. Accidents and Road Hazards

Minor collisions and other vehicle accidents can impact your windshield directly, causing structural stress on the glass and damage it. Hitting a large pothole or even sudden breaking when trying to avoid a road hazard can also cause strain on your windshield. To reduce such cases, drive more cautiously and always follow speed limits and traffic regulations. Avoid aggressive driving so you don’t put yourself at risk of fender benders or other accidents. Don’t forget to regularly check your tires and suspension as well to make sure your vehicle can handle road hazards safely.

6. Improper Cleaning Techniques

To maintain excellent visibility while driving, cleaning your windshield regularly is a must. However, improper cleaning techniques, such as using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals, can actually cause more damage on your auto glass. To avoid scratching or weakening your windshield, use a microfiber cloth and a glass cleaner specifically designed for auto glass when cleaning it. You may also ask your local auto glass repair shop for product recommendations to ensure that the cleaning materials you’ll be using are safe for your windshield.

Minimizing damage on your windshield requires constant awareness of anything that can damage it as well as practicing good driving habits. By taking note of the common causes of windshield damage discussed in this article, you can be assured that your car’s windshield will remain in top condition for more years to come.