Can Your Cars Cracked Windshield Shatter?

Yes, the answer is simple — a cracked windshield man very easily shatter. But a host of factors are involved. Windshields consist of laminated glass. Two layers of glass are joined with the help of a plastic film division in-between the layers.

A cracked window screen can grow if the glass contracts or expands due to temperature changes or if the glass is pressurized, or dirt enters the crack. These could worsen a crack that has weakened the glass already. Under such circumstances, a windshield may shatter.

Broken Windshield

However, vehicle owners must know that even if the glass shatters, it is quite unlikely that it will collapse into the vehicle because windshields are always fixed in place using urethane adhesives. These prevent noise, leaks, and most importantly, the movement of the glass. However, this does not mean that you should drive around with a cracked windshield. As even a small crack indicates weakened structural integrity. Even if the crack is small, it’s essential to get it examined.

Should You Drive With a Cracked Windshield?

No, you should never drive with a cracked windshield. You must get it repaired by a technician as soon as possible.

Crack vs. a Chip

A windshield crack is different than a chipped windshield. The latter can be easily repaired. A chip refers to small damages on a windshield, and a crack is a distinct line that runs across the windshield and cannot be repaired.

Can a crack be repaired?

The answer is sometimes, especially if a crack is about 14 inches or less than that and does not come in the driver’s field of vision. A technician can judge whether a repair can affect a vehicle’s operation.

Don’t Delay Replacement

If a crack has been detected, replace it. Do not delay. Cracks grow. Temperature can trigger this by causing expansion and contraction of the glass.

How Long Does any Windshield Crack to Spread?

Factors like temperature and moisture play a critical role.

A windshield is essentially two pieces of glass joined together by a layer of plastic in between. This indicates that there is always space for some moisture to get in. When water enters through the crack, it can weaken the windshield. If the water is cold enough, it can freeze, forming more cracks. Similarly, extreme temperatures are known to help windshield cracks spread.

Can a windshield crack from the cold? Yes, cold temperature causes contraction in the glass too. If a glass is chipped or cracked the added pressure leads to further damage. More importantly, the sun can also worsen the existing chip or crack, causing it to expand.

Dirt

Dirt can also weaken the windshield. Thus, try putting clear tape over the crack until it gets fixed to stop dirt from getting in. This will also prevent obstruction of the view.

Damaged Roads

Even if you are a careful driver and avoid dips and bumps on the road, sometimes they cannot be missed. This too can cause the windshield crack to expand. There is no specific time length to say how soon a crack will spread across the windshield. However, the longer it remains, the faster it is going to grow.

As soon as you notice a crack or chip, reach out to an expert to handle the windshield replacement or repair.

Time to Visit Your Fraser, MI Auto Repair Shop?

Feel free to stop in and visit Car Guys Auto Center today or give us a call at (586) 285-4444!  We would be happy to answer any auto-related questions you may have.  We are located at :

Car Guys Auto Center
32639 Groesbeck Hwy
Fraser, MI 48026