Oh no – the cringe-worthy windshield crack. You’re driving along like many do, tenders in your hands, sampler’s guide in the dashboard, when horror hits – a thin, barely-there crack surges across your windshield. Now how will you manage? Is it urgent? Do you need a replacement or can it be repaired, or will it bring about the necessary evil of a replacement?
Well, hang on, because in this post we are answering just that question. Let me inform you about everything that shall irritate you no more about these fractures and how you shall make the correct call for your car and the fact that whether it shall put pressure on your pocket or not.
What is a Windshield Stress Crack?
Definition and Causes
To people acquainted, the question – what is a windshield stress crack, stupid isn’t it? There is no impact that comes in from all or near to all damage outside the windshield which ejects backwards like a small nuisance. Now, there is a crack which you don’t recall hitting something and you were nowhere near a collision. Sounds interesting?
Such fissures appear because of thermal and internal stress in the glass.
Here is something to think about: has anyone ever put cold water into a glass that had already been heated in a filing cabinet? It is shattered! Your windshield does the same thing every time. It expands and contracts in response to the sharp temperature difference.
Understanding & Distinguishing the Different Kinds of Stress Cracks
This is becoming more interesting. The impact crack may be caused by a foreign object such as flying debris, however, stress cracks are different. The edge of the windshield is often where you see most stress cracks radiating out from; impact cracks, on the other hand, occur close to the point of impact.
It is worth considering this way: stress cracks take their time and are the more subtle approach. They come out of nowhere. Impact cracks are more like blunt force injuries, and you see them coming. The positive side? There is a chance of possible repair for both cracks- but that depends on certain conditions.
Windshields with Stress Cracks: Can Those Be Repaired?
On the Crack Ibwi
So, coming back to the original problem: Is a stress crack on a windshield repairable? Well, that would depend on quite a few things: the condition of the vehicle, for starters. What is the size of the crack? It is safe to say that most widely held beliefs postulate that cracks less than six inches long can be restored in most instances. But what if the crack is more than six inches or for that matter if it is a long thin streak like a spider’s web? The likelihood of ground repair may be slim to none.
Another thing worth mentioning is the position of the crack. In case the crack is at the side of the windscreen or right within the line of the driver’s vision, a repair could put the safety at risk. And, of course, when it comes to safety, it should always come first.
Available Repair Options
If you have noticed the crack earlier and it’s too small in size, then there are several methods of repair available. One of the most popular is a resin injection. Here, a clear resin is injected into the crack and it will fill it and keep it from spreading. It is done in a short time and is often cheaper than the cost of replacing the whole windshield.
Most of the time, it takes less than an hour to make the repairs. Simple, isn’t it? However, it should be noted that this is only effective if the crack is minor. The deeper the crack, the more difficult it becomes to repair successfully.
When Windshield Replacement Should Be Considered
Now, if the size of your crack has not been in control, let’s suppose it is several inches long or is extending to the direction of spreading across the windshield, then the chances are, you will have to replace it completely. Yes, I know it is frustrating. No one would want to spend money towards a new windscreen, but at times it is inescapable.
Generally, it is better to change the windshield if the crack is a threat to its structural integrity. You wouldn’t want the bugs on your face of the windshield now would you. It is an important device in the vehicle, most crucial during an impact.
What Could Happen If You Don’t Pay Attention To A Windshield Stress Crack
Visibility and Driving Safety
So some of you might be thinking, “Well, can’t I leave it as it is? It is only a small crack, right? ” Sure, if you leave it as it is, it would be risky for you. Such cracks can be very dangerous. Even a hairline crack can make it difficult to see properly even when there is a slight glare from the sun and particularly if that crack falls on the driver’s line of sight.
The same happens if you are driving during the night and a crack produces glare due to high beam lights of headlights. I wouldn’t want to be in such a position.
Decrease in Structural Integrity of the Glass
Moreover, stress fractures tend to easily shatter pieces of the windshield as well; leaving such a windshield will eventually cause poor visibility while driving. These may seem trivial in nature but most glass stress fractures can weaken the windshield, causing it to look like frost. Believe me, you do not want to be in a car running on such a windshield.
In an accident a windshield whose integrity has collapsed cannot be relied upon to provide protection. So though someone may say “It’s just a crack,” It’s definitely better to take care of it as soon as possible.
How to Avoid Introducing Stress Cracks on Your Windshield Again
Ways of doing Maintenance and Care
Prevention is always better than cure, isn’t it? So let’s talk about how you can prevent yourself corticosteroid stress cracks on the windshield in the first place.
The simplest? You should try as much as possible to not suddenly change the temperature of the windshield. For example, if one has parked their car under the scorching sun for the whole day, there is no need for one to switch on the air conditioning immediately. On top of that, stop yourself from shutting your doors, it tends to exert undue stress on the glass.
In the Event that a New Crack Has Developed, What to Do
A new crack just developed? Don’t freak out. The secret is to be swift. If you manage to do it as soon as possible, you will be able to prevent it from further growth. Follow changes closely, and do not wash super-hot or cold water cars immediately after the crack is seen.
Conclusion
So, is it possible to fix a windshield stress fracture? Yes, in most circumstances – yes! But the time is the most crucial element here. If you catch the crack when it is still very small, you can fix it fast and cheaply, and so avoid replacement of the windshield. But again if you allow a lot of time to go by before seeking help; then be prepared to go for a complete out and no one is enjoying this situation.
What is the main point here? It’s quite simple; See your windshield. If you spot a chip or a crack, make sure to take care of it at the earliest. You should spend that time because your health and the health of your car is worth it!
FAQs
1. How does a stress crack differ from a regular one?
A stress crack is developed because of temperature changes, meaning no impact caused it, while a regular crack develops due to a foreign object hitting the windshield.
2. Can a stress crack grow in size with time?
Yes, if not taken care of, even the smallest of cracks can grow larger due to thermal expansion or movement of the vehicle.
3. Is windshield crack repair a long process?
For the majority of times if the crack is small and cleaned before it expands, it takes less than an hour and sometimes even 30 mins to repair.
4. Is a stress crack repair cost insurable?
In the majority of cases yes. Call your insurance company—some even offer to pay for the entire custody.
5. Is it possible to avoid stress cracks on my windshield in the future?
Reduce the chances of rapid temperature fluctuations, remember to keep the tension while closing your doors, and finally try to park in the shade to minimize stress on the glass.