Will a cracked windshield eventually shatter?
As we drive our cars, we take for granted the safety of our windshields. But what if something were to happen that would cause the glass to break? Would it eventually shatter, like a broken vase? The answer is not simple, as it depends on a variety of factors. For example, the type of glass and its thickness. But in general, most windshields will eventually fracture—though it may not happen immediately. And if you do experience a crack in your windshield, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself and your vehicle.
What should you do if your windshield is already cracked?
If you’ve already notice a crack in your windshield, there are steps you can take to keep it from progressing and eventually shattering. First, be sure to keep the car stationary as much as possible, as movement can cause the glass to expand and break. If you need to drive, use caution and avoid sudden stops or turns. Additionally, if your car has a cracked windshield that starts to show signs of visible damage such as chips or cracks near the edges of the glass, it’s important to get it fixed right away. A cracked windshield that becomes completely shattered is a safety hazard and can impair your vision.
The difference between a cracked and shattered windshield
A cracked windshield is a safety concern, but it’s not always necessary to replace it. If the crack is less than two inches wide and doesn’t go all the way through the windshield, the crack can be fixed with a caulking or sealant. If the crack goes all the way through the windshield, it needs to be replaced. Caulking and sealant won’t fix a shattered windshield, which is when pieces of the glass break off and become embedded in the padding beneath the windshield.
There is a big difference between a cracked windshield and a shattered windshield. A cracked windshield will usually only need to be replaced if it becomes completely unusable. A shattered windshield, on the other hand, may require replacement if it is still usable but has large cracks or chips in it.
Types of cracks in a windshield
A cracked windshield is a minor safety hazard that can be fixed without replacing the entire window. A shattered windshield, on the other hand, is a serious safety issue that requires replacement of the entire window. Here’s how to tell the difference:
Cracked Windshield: If you crack your windshield but don’t see any shards or pieces fall out, the crack is probably just cosmetic and can be fixed with a plastic repair kit. If however, pieces of glass start to fall out of the crack or if the crack widens, you need to get a new windshield.
Shattered Windshield: If you break your windshield and see large shards or pieces fall out, your car is likely in for major repairs. In most cases, replacing the whole window is the only option to keep you safe.
If you have any questions about windshield repair or replacement, please give us a call.
What to do if your windshield shatters
If your windshield shatters, you will need to take action. If the crack is less than a half inch wide, it can be fixed with a repair kit. If the crack is wider than a half inch, you will need to replace your windshield.
If your windshield shatters, the best thing to do is to remove any pieces of glass that are in the vehicle and drive to a nearby auto or glass repair shop. Auto glass repair shops can fix most types of broken windshields. If it’s a small crack, they may be able to fix it without replacing the entire windshield. If the crack is larger or multiple pieces of glass are embedded in the surface, then a new windshield may be necessary.
Conclusion
Cracked windshields are common, and although they may not seem like it at first, they can eventually shatter. If you notice a crack in your windshield, don’t wait to get it fixed; take action right away so that you don’t end up with a shattered windshield.