Preparing for Winter Weather: Preventing Windshield Damage

Don't Wait for the Deep Freeze: Why You Should Repair Your Windshield Now

That small chip or crack in your windshield might seem like a minor annoyance now, but letting it go could lead to a far bigger, more expensive problem now that cold weather is arriving. A damaged windshield is especially vulnerable to the elements, and fixing it promptly with Ashlock Glass' team of technicians can save you time, money, and keep you safe on the road.

The Science of Spreading Windshield Cracks

Ignoring minor windshield damage can create a more serious issue, and it's all because of science! Glass, like any material, expands in the heat and contracts in the cold. Winter weather creates a perfect set of conditions that start as small problems and rapidly become major ones:

• Thermal shock: When you turn on your defroster to clear a frosty windshield, the rapid change from freezing temperatures outside to warm air inside creates stress on the glass. This sudden temperature difference can cause a small chip to grow into a long, irreversible crack across your windshield in a matter of minutes.

• The freeze-thaw cycle: Moisture from rain, sleet, or snow can seep into a tiny crack. When the temperature drops below freezing, that water turns to ice and expands. This process puts immense pressure on the surrounding glass, forcing the crack to widen. This can happen repeatedly throughout the winter, with each cycle making the damage worse.

• Road salt and debris: Winter roads are often covered in salt and other debris kicked up by other vehicles. These particles can hit your windshield and chip away at the edges of existing damage, further compromising the glass.

  
  

Safety on the road

Your car's windshield is a crucial safety component, and even minor damage can compromise its integrity. A compromised windshield is a serious risk for several reasons:

• Structural support: In a collision or rollover, your windshield provides up to 60% of your vehicle's structural strength. A crack or chip can weaken the glass, increasing the risk of the roof collapsing during an accident.

• Airbag deployment: An intact windshield is essential for the proper deployment of your passenger-side airbag. The airbag uses the windshield as a surface to properly inflate and protect the occupant. If the windshield is compromised, the airbag may not deploy correctly, or it could even expand out through the weakened glass.

• Impaired visibility: Even a small chip or crack can obstruct your view, especially when the sun or headlights hit it at just the right angle. When driving in hazardous winter conditions like snow and ice, you need a completely clear line of sight to stay safe.

  
  

Repairing Your Windshield Now Saves You Money Later

Waiting until winter to fix a chipped windshield can turn a small, inexpensive repair into a much costlier replacement.

• Repair vs. replace: Most small chips and cracks (typically those smaller than a dollar bill) can be repaired affordably with a special resin. This is often covered by insurance with a low or even zero deductible.

• Higher replacement costs: If the damage spreads, a full windshield replacement becomes necessary. This is significantly more expensive, costing hundreds of dollars, and even more for vehicles with advanced safety sensors integrated into the glass.

  
  

Beat the Rush and Prepare for Winter

Get ahead of the cold weather rush by addressing windshield damage now. Ashlock Glass serves its customers with prompt attention to repairs and replacements of your windshields. Taking care of these issues before the temperatures drop ensures your vehicle is safe and winter-ready. It's a quick, easy, and affordable way to protect yourself and your wallet from a major headache down the road.

Contact Ashlock Glass today to schedule your repair or replacement appointment.