There’s nothing more frustrating than driving with a cracked windshield, especially when it happens unexpectedly. At Auto Glass Ottawa, we understand how this common issue can quickly escalate into a more serious problem if not addressed promptly. Whether you’re driving through a construction zone or battling Ottawa’s unpredictable weather, there are several reasons why windshields crack. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the most common causes of windshield cracks and provide actionable tips on how to prevent them, so you can keep your car in the best shape possible. If you ever need windshield repair in Ottawa, our team is here to help.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the most common causes of windshield cracks and what you can do to prevent them
1. Road Debris
If you’ve ever been driving behind a truck or bus, you may have noticed how easily debris can get kicked up onto the road. Loose stones, gravel, and other materials can easily fly up and hit your windshield, leaving behind chips or cracks. This is especially common on highways, where cars are moving at higher speeds, making any collision with debris more dangerous for your windshield.
How to Prevent It? While it’s hard to avoid road debris entirely, you can take steps to reduce your risk. Maintain a safe distance from vehicles, especially large ones like trucks and buses, which are more likely to kick up debris. Also, be extra cautious when driving through construction zones or areas with loose gravel. Regularly washing your car can help keep smaller particles from accumulating on your windshield, which could also cause damage.
Related Blog: How to Protect Your Windshield from Rock Chips in Ottawa
2. Temperature Fluctuations
Ottawa’s temperatures can fluctuate drastically, especially during the winter months. A cold winter morning might see your car parked outside in freezing conditions, and then you step into a warm vehicle with the heater blasting. This rapid change in temperature can put stress on your windshield, causing it to crack or shatter. The same thing can happen when you switch from a hot car interior to a cold exterior.
How to Prevent It? To prevent cracks caused by temperature changes, it’s best to let your car gradually adjust to the outside temperature. If you can, park your vehicle in a garage or under a sheltered area to avoid extreme cold. When defrosting your windshield, do so gradually by using a low temperature on your heater instead of blasting hot air directly onto the glass. Avoid using boiling water to remove ice from your windshield during winter, as this can cause cracks from the sudden temperature shock.
Related Blog: The Weather Impact on Windshield Damage
3. Improper Installation or Repair
Sometimes, the issue isn’t with the road or the weather but with the windshield itself. Poor installation or previous repairs that weren’t done correctly can leave your windshield more susceptible to cracking. If the windshield wasn’t sealed properly or the adhesive wasn’t applied correctly, it can become loose or weakened, making it more prone to damage.
How to Prevent It? Ensure your windshield is installed by professionals who are trained and certified in auto glass repair. At Auto Glass Ottawa, we take great care in ensuring that every windshield is installed properly to prevent future problems. If you’ve had repairs done before and are noticing cracks or chips appearing again, it’s worth getting the glass inspected to make sure the job was done right.
Related Blog: Why Hire Professionals for Windshield Repair?
4. Accidents and Collisions
While you can take steps to avoid them, accidents happen. Even minor collisions or bumps can cause significant damage to your windshield. A crack or chip from a small fender bender can quickly grow into a larger crack that compromises the integrity of your windshield.
How to Prevent It? The best way to avoid cracks from accidents is by driving safely and maintaining awareness of your surroundings. Always keep a safe distance from other vehicles and avoid distracted driving. If you’re in an accident, even if the damage seems minimal, it’s essential to get your windshield checked. At Auto Glass Ottawa, we can assess the damage and provide the right repair solution.
5. Sunlight and UV Exposure
Prolonged exposure to intense sunlight and UV rays can weaken your windshield over time, making it more prone to cracking. UV radiation causes the glass to expand and contract, which can lead to stress fractures, especially if there’s a pre-existing crack or chip. This is a common issue in the summer months but can happen year-round, especially if your car is regularly parked in the sun.
How to Prevent It? Whenever possible, park your car in a shaded area to minimize exposure to the sun. Using a windshield sunshade or covering your windshield with a cloth can help protect the glass from UV damage. If you live in an area where intense sunlight is a regular issue, consider investing in UV-protective window film to reduce the impact of sunlight on your windshield.
Related Blog: 5 Ways to Protect Your Auto Glass This Summer
6. Potholes and Poor Road Conditions
Ottawa’s roads, especially in the winter, can be filled with potholes and other hazards. Driving over these rough patches can cause jarring vibrations throughout your vehicle, which can result in cracks or chips to your windshield. Even minor jolts can place enough stress on the glass to cause damage.
How to Prevent It? While it’s impossible to control road conditions, you can minimize the risk by driving cautiously. Slow down when approaching potholes, and try to avoid them when it’s safe. Be mindful of rough or damaged roads, and check your tires regularly to ensure they’re in good condition to absorb some of the impact.
Related Blog: Windshield Preventive Maintenance Tips
At Auto Glass Ottawa, we understand how important it is to keep your windshield in top shape. Cracks and chips are not just an eyesore; they can compromise the safety of your vehicle. By taking a few simple precautions and addressing issues early, you can prevent major damage to your windshield. If you do notice a crack or chip, don’t wait! Contact us for reliable and professional windshield repair in Ottawa.
Don’t let a small crack become a bigger problem. Contact Auto Glass Ottawa today to schedule a quick and reliable repair! Call us now at 613-234-9111 to book your consultation and keep your vehicle safe on the road.