How to Prevent Winter Windshield Cracks?

No one wants their car’s windshields to crack in the winter. However, it is possible if you do not take the right precautions. Here are the four sure-shot ways to prevent windshield cracks:

• Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes
• Clear Built-Up Snow
• Use A Windshield Cover
• Park In A Sheltered Area

Let’s get into the details.

Why Does Your Windshield Crack In Winter?

Before moving on to prevention, you need to understand what are causes of windshields cracks in the winter. Take a look at the common causes listed below:

• Ice: When water seeps into small chips in your windshield and freezes, it expands, which can worsen the crack.

• Hail: In winter, hail storms are a possibility. Sometimes, the sheer force of the hail striking the windshield can lead to cracks. 

• Temperature Changes: Your windshield glass expands and contracts based on weather changes; frequent fluctuation can cause it to break. 

• Road Salt:  It can corrode the windshield, making it more prone to damage from impact or temperature changes.

4 Ways To Prevent Winter Windshield Cracks

Now that you know how cracks form in winter, let’s see how to prevent them. Here are the top four ways you can do this. 

1. Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes

Windshield glass responds to temperature changes by contracting and expanding. When you park your car out in the cold, do not let the first thing you do when you get in is blast the heater! It will create the perfect environment for your windshield to crack. Instead, gradually turn the heat up, allowing your car the time it needs to warm up without damaging the windshield. 

2. Clear Built-Up Snow

This one may seem like an obvious answer, but you need to focus on clearing the snow the right way to prevent the windshield from cracking. Turn the car engine on and allow it to warm at its pace. Then, grab a deicer (or DIY one by merging one part of water with two parts of rubbing alcohol) and spray it on the snow. Let it sit for a while, and then use a plastic scrapper to remove the ice from the windshield gently.

3. Use A Windshield Cover

Additionally, you may also purchase windshield covers. These will help add an added layer of protection and minimize direct exposure to snow or ice. They not only protect your windshield from unwanted cracks but also prevent the spreading of existing cracks. For those of you who park your cars in the open, consider buying these covers to prevent the windshield from cracking in winter. 

4. Park In A Sheltered Area

Another answer to the problem of winter windshield cracks is to avoid the freezing temperature altogether. This does not mean you should switch cities. Instead, just find an enclosed parking spot for your car. A garage will help keep your car away from the icy temperatures and hail storms that can potentially damage your windshield. Ultimately, parking in a sheltered area will let your windshield stay intact while you save on costly windshield repairs. 

Stay Away From DIY Hacks!

We cannot emphasize enough the importance of not trying just any DIY hack you see on the Internet it is better to consult auto glass repair specialists. Here’s a list of all the hacks you should avoid to save your windshield from winter cracks:

• No Hot Water: Throwing hot water on the windshield is another example of a temperature change; do not do that.
• Vinegar and Water Do Not Work:  As famous as this hack may be, it’s useless. Instead, vinegar may eat into the glass, causing pits.
• Do Not Use A Knife: Trying to scrape the ice off with a sharp object will only scratch your windshield!
• Hair Dryer Is A No-go: Again, it will cause an extreme temperature, which can cause cracks. 

How to avoid cracking windshields in winter?

If you regularly clear the built-up snow, invest in windshield covers, and avoid sudden temperature changes, you can prevent winter windshield cracks. 

How to stop a windshield crack from spreading in the cold?

Your best option in this case is to get the crack repaired or the windshield replaced before the damage spreads. Reach out to Blue Diamond Auto Glass today. 

Why did my windshield crack in the winter?

It can be because of hail storms striking the windshield forcefully, causing it to break, temperature changes, or road salts corroding the windshield surface.

Conclusion

It is very important to prevent harsh winters from cracking your windshield. Here’s a quick recap of everything you can do to keep your windshield intact. First, avoid sudden changes in temperature and clear the snow build-up regularly. Next, you may use a windshield cover or park in a sheltered area to protect your windshield from snow. If you find a crack in your windshield, do not worry. To stop the windshield crack from spreading, all you need to do is contact us at Blue Diamond Auto Glass; we will take care of it for you!