The first step involves testing the depth of the cracks in your windshield. The damage may be referred to as a chip, a stress crack, a star break or a bulls-eye depending upon the size and shape of the flaw. References. Generally speaking, windshields should be replaced if they have multiple cracks, large chips, or extensive spider webbing. DIY methods can yield poor results and have a good chance of rendering a professional, quality repair impossible. In addition to detracting from the appearance of your vehicle, a cracked windshield make can also reduce your visibility. Copyright 2001-2023 T&S Auto Glass. According to Texas law, damaged windshields must be corrected as safety hazards. Ron Capps Races to Runner-Up Finish in Houston. Don't be surprised if the tape doesn't last longer than a week or one trip through a car wash. Heres a look at the hazards of cracked windshields and how to stop windshield cracks from spreading until you seek professionalwindshield repair. And, like superglue, nail polish can be highly difficult to remove once its been applied. If it is a tiny crack, you may be able to repair it with a kit. If a crack gets to a point where it is not able to be repaired, it will require replacing the whole windshield. Now, he writes on automotive topics across the web and around the world, including new automotive technology, transportation legislation, emissions, fuel economy and auto repair. Bore a small hole through the top layer of glass at one end of the crack, using a 1/16-inch drill bit. And theyre not just annoying, they can be a serious safety concern, too, distracting your eyes from the road and weakening your windshield. Glass drill bits are widely available at hardware, tool, auto repair, and online stores. Seal It Up. 2. Once dried, it will help keep both sides of the crack together, and reduces additional spreading. There are several common reasons for windshield cracks, and understanding them can help you to avoid costly repairs. In addition, the diamond drill bit included in the kit helps to create a clean, precise hole for the resin to fill. To prevent this from happening, park your car in the shade when possible and avoid using the window defroster until youhave the chip repaired. A faulty windshield will not provide the ideal protection in the event of a collision. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. i) Seal it up. Use a Windshield Crack Repair Kit . Can You Stop A Windshield Crack From Spreading? This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Save with Advantage Plan. There are a few things you need to know before you start. Apply a small quantity of superglue to the cracked area. 3. Lets look closer at each of them: When a stone hits your windshield, it can leave behind a tiny chip. You should still have your windshield inspected by an expert. Be sure to use minimal pressure to prevent the crack from worsening. Repair the Windshield Crack. Stay safe and drive safely! Stress Crack - A crack that occurs without anything . Proactive Maintenance Smart Tips You Should Know, Signs That Indicate You Need Windshield Replacement. Your email address will not be published. With this said, though, a minor windshield star can quickly a major problem unless it is handled correctly. The specialized resin used in these kits is designed to bond with the glass, creating a permanent repair. Then, place transparent tape on the crack to avoid dirt entering until the chip can be fixed. Golden Valley, MN 55422, 1133 Cliff Road East Burnsville, MN 55337, ONLY 1 AUTO GLASS. After you thoroughly clean the area with warm water and a mild cleanser, use one of these tips as a temporary fix. They may be able to contain the size of the crack and make the imperfection appear smaller than it is. If you have a crack in your windshield T&S Auto Glass can help you fix it for little to no cost to you. Were interested to know what type of crack does your windshield have and what method did you use to keep it from getting bigger? Speak to someone who has expertise in windshield repair. Sealing the crack is one of the first things you should do when you notice it's starting to spread. Applying clear tape over a crack will prevent more debris from entering the crack and making the problem worse. If your windshield does have a crack or chip, you can apply a thin piece of clear tape over the damaged area Clear packing tape works best, but even basic adhesive tape can do the job. While the star crack may start out about the size of a quarter, it can easily spread if the windshield is stressed by temperature changes or pressure. Do not wait any longer than absolutely necessary to get your cars glass repaired. When possible, parking inside a garage will help by lowering the stress on the cracked windshield. Generally speaking, you should address any windshield cracks as soon as they appear and only if they are smaller than six inches in length. After dabbling in DIY repairs at home and on the farm, he found his calling in the CGCC Automobile Repair program. Like superglue, clear nail polish can serve as a temporary fix to stop a windshield crack from spreading while youre on the go. In other cases, they may be caused by sudden temperature changes, such as when a car is parked in direct sunlight after being driven in cold weather. You may even have cracks in your windshield or window that look like a spider web. Dont spray the glass cleaner directly onto the damaged area, as this can interfere with the repair process. Clean the crack as thoroughly (and gently) as possible, then carefully fill it with super glue or nail polish. Apply the tape to the crack and smooth it out so . A windshield repair kit is the best way to fix small nicks and cracks. Stopping a Windshield Crack from Spreading The first step is to prevent stressors like dirt, water and other debris from entering the crack. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Finally, freezing temperatures can also cause windshields to crack. Can you put duct tape on a cracked windshield. Keeping your car cool when possible can prevent the problem from becoming too substantial for a home repair. Your windshield glass is a solid piece of glass that maintains its integrity by uniformly distributing the force applied to it. It is important that you speak with a windshield repair expert, as they have the required knowledge, experience, tools, and materials to assist with temporarily repairing your cracked windshield. Stone Break - A small chip that occurs when a stone (or other hard item) hits the windshield. Please contact the franchise location for additional information. Before you attempt to fill the crack, clean the windshield with auto glass cleaner and paper towels. This can help hold glass together for a short period, giving time to schedule with a repair shop. As a small thank you, wed like to offer you a $30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). Just like you started off with the nail polish hack, youll first need to clean the damaged area to make sure that dirt, debris or dust particles do not end up inside the crack; they can cause it to spread. Placing a piece of clear packing tape - the kind you would use to seal up moving boxes - over the chip from the outside of the window can protect the damaged area and keep moisture and dirt out.. 10 Effective Ways on How to Prevent Windshield Cracks 1. These small problems can quickly spread if left untreated and become much more difficult (and expensive) to repair. To fix the crack yourself, purchase a windshield repair kit from a local automotive parts supply store. This reduces stressors on the glass while preventing additional spreading. It also works as an ideal repair tool for windshield crack. If, on the other hand, the damage is much more extreme a large crack or huge star then you will have to replace the windshield. Operate Your Vehicle Cautiously. While stress cracks are not usually a safety concern, they can worsen over time and eventually lead to more serious damage. The metal pedestal provides a sturdy base for the repair, ensuring the glass will not crack under pressure. 1. A windshield crack can only be protected for so long; eventually, you have to get it repaired or replaced to solve the problem. Syringe adhesive kits usually include adhesive liquid and a syringe, and involve injecting the adhesive into the crack with a syringe. You can prevent a lot of minor damages to your windshield by simply being careful when you drive and knowing the dangers that exist. In addition to heat, the weight of snow and the force of wind and rain will cause the crack to get bigger. If possible, keep the vehicle inside and in a more consistent temperature environment. You may opt for a windshield repair kit, using the resin and windshield adaptor, or applying nail polish on both sides of the crack. A cracked windshield can weaken the cars frame, making it more likely to collapse in an accident. Although, a small crack does not require the windshield to be replaced. Dry the area off and cover the chip with a piece of scotch tape to keep it dry and clean. In the same way that using super glue or nail polish can prevent debris and moisture from infiltrating the crack, covering the crack with tape is a reasonably good option until you can get your car to a professional. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Does nail polish fix cracked screens? The following are some of the solutions to bank on in how to stop a windshield crack from spreading DIY solutions. Its recommended that you use a clear tape for the application. Let us show you some great reasons to call us. The summer heat can quickly increase the temperature within your car, which increases the pressure on your windshield. . Rub off the toothpaste from the cracked part. If it is just a crack on your phone's screen, then you can apply a temporary seal to prevent the crack from spreading or growing further. They also play an important role in the overall structural integrity of the whole vehicle (it seems funny that a thin piece of laminated material is responsible for major structural integrity, but it is). Have you ever been driving down the highway, minding your own business, when suddenly a flying rock smashes into your windshield? [1] If the structural integrity of the windshield is compromised, it may not be able to protect you in the event of an accident. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 5,646 times. This guide is not a replacement for professional windshield repair service; no hacks or DIY repair kits can permanently fix a windshield crack. Nail Polish or Glue When this happens, its important to assess the damage and determine whether replacement is necessary. It's possible to stop a crack from spreading further. This post will show you how to stop a windshield crack from spreading, and what to do next. There are a number of different types of windshield cracks, such as stress cracks, bulls-eyes, stars, star breaks and chips. This makes your car unsafe to drive, especially if the chip is more than 12 inches long. Complex cracks and defects longer than 6 inches can severely limit your visibility and reduce the strength of your windshield. Next, using a dropper, squeeze the glue into the crack and move the tip of the dropper to ensure the glue gets spread evenly throughout the crack. Luckily, there are many straightforward and affordable methods to stop a windshield crack from spreading. All rights reserved. To stop a crack from getting worse, the first step to take is preventing stressors, such as water, dirt, or other debris to enter the crack. 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