Probably you remember the sinking feeling when you glance at your windshield, and there’s a tiny crack extending against the glass. It is a hairline crack that often goes undetected, but it exists. And you may be wondering: How about hairline cracks in the car windshield – are they repairable? Do not fret – you’re not the lone wolf. It’s that kind of thing that doesn’t occur every day but once it does, as long as you do not respond quickly, it can become an immense stress.
A small crack may appear tiny, yet it often turns the headache high if left unattended. So let’s get straight to the point and see how to tackle these annoying cracks so that you don’t have to buy and replace your windshield.
Dealing with Hairline Cracks in Your Windshield
Let us imagine the following: You are behind the wheel on a hot sunny day, behind the wheel driving along the highway when out of the blue, rock hits your windshield after being thrown up off the road. That is how the cracking began. Now it is more likely that it will start as ‘not too damaged’ state, but we already know the chain of events that follow. You return to your parking spot in the garage and patiently wish for the best.
In all honesty, cracks will never heal by themselves (I wish!). Although they appear insignificant at first, hairline cracks are similar to a small splinter that you choose to overlook only for it to become infected. They will expand and worsen with time and will one day threaten your view and your money.
Right! Now, let’s get to the bottom of this! I want to demonstrate what happens to these cracks while they are still minor and how you can prevent them from turning into a large maintenance chore.
What Causes Hairline Cracks in Your Car Windshield?
Believe it or not, hairline cracks can appear even when you’re being super careful. But, how do they occur in the first place?
Extreme weather conditions are often to blame. If you live somewhere that has wild temperature swings, your windshield is actually contracting a great deal more than you think. Such an environment creates tension in a very constant way and eventually tiny cracks present themselves out of nowhere.
Then there’s the classic scenario of a rogue rock hitting your windshield at high speed. Road debris, tiny stones, or even hard-packed snow can be enough to create a miniature fracture. I know, I’ve been there too. Last but not least, don’t forget about good old-fashioned use. Gradually, more cracks can develop, particularly if your iberian auto has endured plenty of bumpy rides.
Why Should You Repair Hairline Cracks Immediately?
I know I’m guilty of it too – I see a crack in my windshield and say “whatever, it’s just a little one”. But let me tell you this – it is better to fix it now than wait for even a more traumatizing hassle.
Safety Risks of Ignoring Hairline Cracks
How ‘bout this – looking ‘head’ at the larger picture, your windshield is not just there so to protect you from bugs. It is part of the structure of the car. A structure constructed. Centrally located on that structure is a windshield and a structural weakness. This is what a crack in a windshield is. The big ‘however’ is – in a collision, that may be the difference between a windshield that is in position and completely destroy. No thanks, not look worth the risk.
Increased Repair Costs if Left Unattended
Another aspect of this is a pricing factor. A minor repair will cost a fraction of replacing one. Believe me, what begins as a small problem can quite easily grow into a large one if you let it be. It is likely that these cracks will widen if water or dirt gets in through cracks that they began. Then, before you know it, the repair bill is painful enough to make you look away.
Can You Go To Jail For Having A Cracked Windshield? Well, Legal Answers Are Quite Frightening!
Unless you want the law to come and get you, it is advisable not to drive with a windshield wipers crack. Yes, the police can escort you for this! So you are not only endangering yourself but may also land in jail or get a traffic ticket as well.
Can Hairline Cracks Be Repaired in Car Windshield? 3 Effective Methods to Fix Them!
You are most likely thinking, “Can hairline cracks be repaired in car windshield?” The simple response is? Yes. And I’m going to help you decide which one is right for you.
Method 1: Windshield Repair Kits that You Can Nonetheless Use on Your Own
If you are the handyman type, you might want to consider repairing the crack on your windshield by yourself. This will not cost you a dime at all, as DIY repair kits are readily available from the market. Most of them contain resin that is used to plug a crack and prevent any further expansion. It shouldn’t be too hard, but you need to do it according to the specifications. It’s like applying a band-aid to broken glass, not the best option available but it works for the time being.
Method 2: Services that Repair Windshield and Any Damaged Areas of the Glass Professionally
For an effective and long lasting solution, the only viable option really is to visit a professional. These are the people who know what tools to use and how to cover a crack so that it becomes nearly invisible. I once had to use such a service and they restored my cracked windshield, such that it looked absolutely pristine. And the best part is, they have warranties for the job done so it is more of a hassle free experience.
Method 3: Windshield Replacement – If You Can’t Fix It, Replace It
Other times, it’s beyond reasonable, and all you have to do is change it. There are options to cover it up. But a simple crack that is greater than a few inches will almost always require replacement, particularly if the crack is located in your direct line of vision. It may sound scary, but who wants to take chances. After all better be safe than sorry.
How Do You Avoid Hairline Cracks from Forming in Your Windshield?
Prevention is always better than cure! Here are some tips on how these pesky cracks could be avoided altogether:
Maintenance and Inspections on Schedule
Haul the torch and make routine checks on your windshield. Regular inspections for windshield chips and cracks should be performed. You can never be too careful. It is always better to notice something small than to regret not noticing it later.
Strategies to Shield the Windshield Using Car Covers or Shields
Put money into a windshield cover for when your car is parked outside that way it can’t get hit by debris or sudden changes in the weather. For small amounts, they are effective shields for your windshield and are worth the price.
Conclusion: Attack The Minor Problems Before It Is Too Late.
So, is it possible to fix hairline fractures in the windshield of a car? Certainly! No matter whether you decide to do the fix yourself or go and pay a professional ,what is essential is to take action promptly. Don’t allow a minor problem turn into a major—and costly—hassle. The professionals always know best and have the right skills to complete the task in a much quicker manner and dependable.
But what is more important is to act quickly and not waste time. When you look at hairline cracks, they do not look that big and you can ignore them, do that at your own peril because you can only expect them to spread. And trust me, you wouldn’t want to deal with a broken windshield when you are headed for work early in the morning.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can a hairline crack on a windshield be repair and in how long?
On average, it takes between twenty minutes and up to an hour to repair a windshield, standing estimation depending on the crack’s size as well as location.
2. Are windshield crack repairs covered by insurance?
Yes! A majority of the institutions have policies for repairing windscreens especially if they are in small cracks. You should confirm with your provider.
3. Does the crack disappear after being repaired?
The repairs do not completely make the crack invisible and it may still be somewhat visible and stretches beyond a certain point. The positive fact, however, is the soundness will be reestablished.
4. How do I stop this from happening again?
Before getting into the car examine for any maintenance opportunitites, always try to place your car in a safe spot and in case of harsh weather get protective shields where possible.
5. What circumstances would warrant the replacement of the windshield rather than its repair?
A lot of the time the crack is longer than several inches, or is right in the center of the drivers field of vision, and so it becomes necessary to forward windscreen.