Discovered an unexpected crack in your auto-glass? Here are some of the most surprising causes of damaged windshields and how to avoid them.
The windshield is one of the most important auto-glass features of your car and a crucial safety feature for you and your passengers. In the unfortunate event of an accident, your windshield serves to:
- contain the airbag after deployment
- prevent ejection of passengers
- increase impact resistance
- prevent the collapse of your car roof
Convenient, Affordable & Fast Auto Glass Repair in Calgary
A chip or crack in your auto-glass should never be taken lightly. Whether you require a windshield repair or a side mirror replacement, our team at Diamond Glass has the skill, knowledge, and equipment to get you back on the road quickly and safely.
5 Uncommon Reasons For Cracked Windshields
Maybe you got into your car this morning for work and discovered that your windshield had cracked, seemingly for no reason. Or perhaps you discovered your auto-glass was damaged when you came out of a restaurant after dinner, even though you’re sure nothing happened to it when you were inside.
One of the most important things to remember is that windshield cracks and chips don’t just happen. It may seem that way when you discover the damage, but there is always an underlying reason.
Common Reasons Why Windshields Crack
There are some very common reasons why your windshield may crack, which most everyone is aware of. These include:
- flying rocks, gravel, or other debris whilst you’re driving
- falling tree branches
- hail
- high winds
- a rogue baseball or other object
Uncommon Reasons Why Windshields Crack
While these factors are often the causes for many windshield cracks and chips, there are other, lesser-known factors, that you should be aware of. These include:
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Improper or Poor Installation: There are very high standards required for windshield installation. If you’ve attempted a DIY project, it may be that you didn’t install it properly. A loose windshield could cause vibrations which would then lead to stress fractures. (Why You Should Always Leave Auto-Glass Repairs to the Professionals >)
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Temperature Changes: Fluctuations in temperature, especially if you use a defroster or even the car’s heater, can cause your auto glass to expand and contract. Because glass heats faster around the edges, these expansions and contractions happen at different rates, leading to cracking.
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Sunlight: Sunlight has the same effect on your windshield as temperature changes. Because it heats the metal near to the edges faster than the middle of your windshield, it can cause cracks.
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Glass Imperfections: Not all types of auto-glass are made equal. Some are of higher quality than others, some may have had a recall, or your windshield could simply have had a nearly invisible imperfection that you simply missed. Low-quality auto glass is more likely to crack and require repairs. (Your Auto-Glass Options >)
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Pressure Changes: Pressure changes from factors such as high wind gusts, or even setting something heavy on the windshield, could potentially be enough to cause a crack on your auto-glass that seems to come out of nowhere.
What to Do If Your Windshield Cracks
If you notice a chip or crack on your windshield, it’s imperative to fix it as soon as possible. Even if it looks like a minor crack can wait, the damage could be more serious than it appears. Even if it’s not, a crack that’s left alone will only get worse.
At Diamond Glass, our team can determine whether or not your windshield is repairable and get you back on the road within one hour!
Mobile Auto Glass Repairs
At Diamond Glass, our customers’ needs come above everything else. If you require an auto-glass repair but are unable to visit our shop, our team will come to you! Some of the benefits of our mobile auto glass repair service include:
- you’ll never have to compromise your safety
- saving you time and won’t disrupt your schedule
- returning your vehicle back to its optimal driving condition as soon as possible
- immediate auto-glass repairs, regardless of your location
Want to Know More?
To know more about our affordable, convenient, and quick auto-glass services, and how we can get your car back onto the road safely and quickly, contact our Calgary office at 403-568-7086 or request a repair quote.