How To Stop A Windshield Crack From Spreading

February 10, 2024

Windshield cracks are a common and frustrating issue for drivers. Whether they’re caused by a flying rock, Calgary’s extreme temperature fluctuations, or road vibrations, a cracked windshield can quickly worsen if left untreated. While a professional windshield crack repair is the best solution, there are temporary fixes that can help prevent the damage from spreading until you can get your windshield in for repairs.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Cracked Windshield

Your windshield is more than just a piece of glass — it’s crucial to the safety of your vehicle. It protects you from wind, debris, and bugs while maintaining the structural integrity of your car. A cracked windshield compromises its strength and can obstruct visibility, putting you and your passengers at risk.
While the chances of your windshield shattering completely are low, delaying a repair can cause the crack to expand, leading to a potentially costly replacement down the road.

Temporary Fixes to Prevent a Crack from Spreading

If you can’t get a windshield crack repair completed right away, here are some temporary solutions to help stop a crack from spreading:

1. Seal It with Nail Polish or Super Glue

A quick and easy fix is to apply clear nail polish or super glue to the crack. Here’s how:

Clean the crack with glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to remove dirt and debris.
Let it dry completely before driving.
For extra protection, place a small piece of clear packing tape over the area to prevent dirt from entering.

This temporary solution will help prevent the crack from expanding and will keep dirt and moisture out until you can get a professional repair.

2. Drive with Care

Your driving habits can significantly impact the condition of your cracked windshield. To avoid making the damage worse:

Drive smoothly and avoid rough roads or construction areas with loose gravel.
Slow down when driving over speed bumps or potholes.
Close your car doors gently to minimize vibrations that could cause the crack to expand.

3. Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes

Windshields expand and contract with temperature fluctuations, which can cause existing cracks to spread. While this is often unavoidable in Calgary’s climate, some strategies include:

Parking in the shade during hot summer days.
Avoiding using the defroster on high settings in cold weather.
Gradually increasing the car’s temperature instead of blasting the heater or air conditioner.

Even small temperature shifts can stress a cracked windshield, so maintaining a consistent temperature where possible can help prevent further damage.

When to Seek Professional Windshield Repair

Temporary fixes can only do so much. It’s essential to have your windshield crack repaired by a professional as soon as possible. Here’s how to determine if your windshield crack can be repaired:

Crack is less than three inches long.
Damage is not in the driver’s line of sight.
Crack does not extend to the edges of the windshield.
There are no multiple cracks or deep chips.

If the crack meets these criteria, a windshield repair technician in Calgary can likely fix it in minutes. Otherwise, a full windshield replacement may be necessary.

How to Prevent Windshield Cracks in the Future

While windshield cracks are sometimes unavoidable, you can take steps to reduce the risk:

Keep a safe distance from large trucks to avoid flying debris.
Park in a garage or use a windshield cover to protect against hail and extreme weather.
Avoid sudden temperature changes by gradually adjusting your car’s heating and cooling.
Use quality windshield crack repair services in Calgary to ensure your windshield remains durable and safe.

Reliable Windshield Crack Repair in Calgary

If you need windshield crack repairs in Calgary, don’t wait until it gets worse. At 5 Star Auto Glass, we offer convenient walk-in windshield repairs with no appointment necessary. Our experienced technicians specialize in high-quality windshield repair and replacement services, ensuring you stay safe on the road.