Windshield damage can happen when you least expect it, from a small chip caused by loose gravel to a major crack from sudden temperature changes. While some damage is unavoidable, many common causes can be prevented with the right precautions. Knowing how and why windshields crack—and how to avoid it—helps you maintain clear visibility, keeps your car safer, and saves you money on repairs. In this guide, we’ll explore the top causes of windshield damage, share relevant statistics, and provide practical tips to keep your windshield strong and intact.
What's In This Blog?
Road Debris: Rocks, Gravel, & Other Small Objects
Road debris is a leading cause of windshield chips and cracks, especially on highways. Loose gravel, small rocks, and other debris can be kicked up by other vehicles, striking your windshield with enough force to cause significant damage. According to a report by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, road debris was responsible for over 200,000 accidents between 2011 and 2014, with around 39% involving property damage, including windshields.
How To Avoid It:
Maintain a Safe Following Distance: Staying at least three car lengths behind trucks and larger vehicles reduces the likelihood of debris impacting your windshield.
Avoid Construction Zones When Possible: Detours or slower routes can reduce the chances of gravel damage.
Stick to Middle or Left Lanes on Highways: Debris tends to accumulate in the right lanes. Using the middle or left lanes, when safe, lowers your risk of exposure.
Extreme Temperature Fluctuations
Rapid changes in temperature can cause your windshield glass to expand and contract, leading to cracks or chips. Extreme cold or heat increases this risk, particularly if the glass already has minor imperfections. Studies by the Auto Glass Safety Council show that temperature stress is a common cause of damage, especially in regions with significant seasonal temperature changes.
How To Avoid It:
Warm Up Gradually in Cold Weather: Instead of blasting the heater, let the car warm slowly, allowing the windshield to adjust to temperature changes.
Use Sunshades & Park in the Shade in Hot Climates: Prolonged sun exposure can weaken your glass. Sunshades and parking in shaded areas minimize the effects of extreme temperatures.
Avoid Defrosting Methods That Shock the Glass: Using hot water on an icy windshield may seem convenient, but it can lead to rapid expansion, cracking the glass. Instead, use a dedicated defrost spray or a scraper.
Low-Quality Glass & Improper Installation
Inferior glass or a poor installation job can compromise windshield durability. Inadequate installation fails to create a strong seal, making the glass vulnerable to movement, stress cracks, or even detachment. In fact, windshield quality and installation accuracy are so crucial that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) includes them in vehicle crash safety standards.
How To Avoid It:
Use Certified Auto Glass Services: Seek out certified technicians, particularly those accredited by the Auto Glass Safety Council, to ensure proper installation and the use of high-quality materials.
Check For Signs of Poor Installation: Water leakage, wind noise, and visible gaps between the glass and frame indicate improper installation. Address these issues immediately, as they can lead to greater damage over time.
Impact From Falling Objects & Hail
Falling objects, whether from trees, signage, or buildings, can damage windshields, especially during storms. Hailstones, in particular, can crack or shatter auto glass, depending on their size and the force of impact. According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), the August 5th hailstorm in Calgary is now the second-largest insured loss event in Canadian history. It caused roughly $2.8 billion in insured damage and 130,000 insurance claims.
How To Avoid It:
Park Indoors or iv Covered Areas During Storms: Garages, carports, or other covered spaces provide protection from hail and other falling debris.
Avoid Parking Under Trees or Unstable Structures: Branches and debris from trees, especially during windy weather, pose a high risk to windshields.
Consider a Hail-Protective Cover: In regions where hailstorms are common, investing in a hail-resistant cover can provide added protection against dents, chips, and cracks.
Road Accidents & Collisions
Even a minor accident can place enough stress on your windshield to cause cracks, chips, or even shattering. Windshields are designed to absorb impact and provide structural integrity, especially in rollovers. However, a weakened or damaged windshield won't perform as effectively, posing a safety risk. According to the NHTSA, around 50% of all fatalities in rollover crashes could be prevented with a fully intact windshield.
How To Avoid It:
Practice Defensive Driving: Maintain awareness of your surroundings, anticipate potential hazards, and avoid distractions.
Avoid Tailgating: Rear-end collisions are a common cause of windshield damage. Keeping a safe following distance minimizes the likelihood of sudden stops and impacts.
Stay Cautious in Heavy Traffic or Congested Areas: Stop-and-go traffic increases the risk of fender benders. When possible, avoid high-traffic times or consider alternate routes.
Animals, Birds, & Wildlife
Animals or birds hitting your windshield at high speeds can cause chips or cracks. Though this is less common, it still contributes to the annual costs associated with windshield repair and replacement. The Wildlife Collision Prevention Program estimates that wildlife-vehicle collisions cause over $8 billion in damages in North America.
How To Avoid It:
Reduce Speed in Animal-Prone Areas: In rural areas or near wildlife crossings, reducing speed can help prevent these types of incidents.
Use Your Horn to Deter Wildlife: If you spot an animal on or near the road, a quick honk can encourage them to move out of the way.
Inadequate Maintenance & Poor Cleaning Practices
Regular maintenance can extend the life of your windshield, while improper cleaning can create micro-scratches that eventually weaken the glass. Abrasive materials or harsh chemicals can strip protective coatings or cause gradual damage. Experts advise using microfiber cloths and non-ammonia-based cleaners to clean auto glass.
How To Avoid It:
Use Microfiber Cloths & Ammonia-Free Cleaners: These tools are effective for cleaning without causing scratches or streaks.
Clear Ice & Snow With Care: Metal scrapers or excessive force can create cracks or chips. A plastic scraper or ice-melting spray is less likely to damage the glass.
Avoid Using Paper Towels: While convenient, paper towels are abrasive and can leave small scratches over time.
Avoiding Potential Risk Zones
Windshield damage is more likely to occur in certain locations or situations. For example, highways, construction zones, rural roads, and areas with frequent storms are high-risk environments for windshield damage.
How To Avoid It:
Take Routes With Lower Risk of Debris: When possible, avoid high-traffic highways with a lot of heavy trucks, which kick up more road debris.
Choose Parking Locations Thoughtfully: Opt for covered parking whenever possible. In areas where construction or storms are common, shield your vehicle as much as possible.
While some instances of windshield damage are inevitable, understanding common causes and taking simple precautions can reduce the likelihood of needing frequent repairs or replacements. By following these tips and staying vigilant on the road, you can help extend your windshield's life and improve your vehicle's safety.
Being proactive with maintenance, using professional repair services, and practicing safe driving techniques can collectively safeguard your windshield. Taking small, consistent steps is an effective way to minimize the risk of damage, saving you both time and money in the long run.
Ready To Take Action? Contact Us Today!
Don't wait until a small crack becomes a major safety hazard. Call us today at 403-341-6966 or visit us at 4830 78 Street, Red Deer, for an in-person auto glass repair quote.
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