The windshield is considered the most important safety feature of your vehicle. According to the Auto Glass Safety Council, a windshield can provide up to 60% of the vehicle’s structural integrity in the event of a front-end collision or a rollover. With this, it is important to maintain its condition.
When it comes to windshield maintenance, you only pay attention when you notice damages like cracks and chips. There are some drivers that do not even remember why there is damage. It is crucial that you know the most common causes of windshield damage so you can do something about it.
Keep in mind that aside from car accidents and debris, there are other causes of your windshield damage. Other common causes include:
Extreme temperatures
You have to know that glass contracts when it is cold and expands when it is warm. While windshield glasses are designed to minimise the thermal strain, extreme temperatures may instigate cracks to form especially during long periods of time.
If you are living in a climate where the weather can suddenly change, your windshield is also at risk for forming cracks. The good thing is that these defects are likely to appear after years of thermal strain – not just in a single day. As much as possible, you should park your car in a climate-controlled area especially during temperature fluctuations.
Incorrect installation
If you recently replaced your windshield but you still noticed damage, it will mean that it is incorrectly installed. Incorrect installation will leave the windshield loose. If the windshield is loose, driving will cause high levels of vibration, which could crack it.
It is important that professionals like https://www.donsmobileglass.com/tracy-auto-glass-repair-windshield-replacement/ tackle your automotive glasswork. This is to ensure the quality of work.
Low glass quality
Another common cause of windshield damage is installing cheap and low-quality glass. The defects will not manifest immediately but it will turn into large cracks over time. Again, it is important that professionals tackle your automotive glasswork because they will ensure high-quality installation.
This will cost you because these glasses are slightly more expensive but you will less likely need to replace it in the future. Do not be afraid to invest in your windshield because it can mean the difference between safety and fatality.
Changes in pressure
Since your windshield accounts for 60% of your vehicle’s structural integrity, it is not surprising that it is one of the strongest varieties of glass available. Windshields are designed to survive driving conditions but even they can form stress fractures in adverse and different conditions – like extreme or rapid changes in pressure.
Changes in pressure happen when you drive at very high speeds. It can also mean that there is an object falling or pressing on the windshield. The least that you can do is to drive reasonably.
Conclusion
When you notice windshield damage, do not just drive around and ignore it. It is time that you look for an auto glass company. Auto glass companies have professionals that can evaluate and recommend repairs or replacements that can ensure the structural integrity of the windshield. Do not let minor cracks or chips deepen because it will cost more in the long run.
