How Fast Does a Windshield Crack Spread?
So you hop into your car, eager to drive off to your next destination. Looking out at the road ahead, you’re surprised to find a crack in the windshield. It’s a small crack—less than an inch. You’re not quite sure if it’s cause for alarm. How fast does a windshield crack spread? Do you need auto glass repairs immediately, or can it wait?
Most car owners face the dilemma of a cracked front or rear windshield at some point. Let’s examine the issue and determine the best course of action.
What Causes a Windshield Crack to Spread?
Is your windshield crack spreading faster than you expected? Several factors can exacerbate the problem. Here’s what you should consider.
Temperature Changes:
Fluctuations between hot and cold cause the glass to expand and contract. This constant movement can quickly turn a tiny crack into a larger problem.
Road Conditions:
Driving on rough roads or hitting potholes can jolt your vehicle, agitating the crack and causing it to spread faster. Even minor bumps can worsen the problem.
Weather Conditions:
Moisture from rain or humidity can seep into the crack, weakening the glass further. This moisture can accelerate the growth of the crack, especially during temperature changes.
Driving Speed:
High speeds increase wind pressure on the windshield, which can cause cracks to spread more rapidly. The faster you drive, the more stress you put on the damaged area.
Types of Cracks and Their Behavior
How fast does a windshield crack spread? The answer can also depend on the type of crack you have. Here are some common crack types:
Stress Cracks
Even without direct impact, stress cracks can appear anywhere on your windshield. They usually happen due to sudden temperature changes that weaken the internal layer of the glass. Improper windshield installation could also cause uneven weight distribution in the glass, resulting in stress cracks.
These cracks start small but can spread rapidly with vibrations and further temperature fluctuations. To prevent worsening from temperature changes, park in shaded areas and get prompt windshield repair or windshield replacement.
Edge Cracks
Edge cracks originate from the perimeter of the windshield and tend to grow faster than other types of cracks. Rapid spreading occurs because the glass edges are more vulnerable to stress and less supported than the center. Driving on rough roads or hitting a pothole can worsen the problem. Because they start at the edge, these cracks have a direct path to spread across the entire windshield.
Bullseye and Star Cracks
Named for their distinct shapes, bullseye and star cracks behave differently based on their form and impact point. A bullseye crack, which resembles a dartboard bullseye, can remain relatively stable if it’s small. However, if the inner and outer rings are disrupted, it can spread rapidly.
Star cracks, characterized by their star-like pattern, tend to spread outward from the impact point. The arms of the star can extend quickly, especially if the glass is subjected to further stress from temperature changes or road vibrations. Both kinds of cracks can expand unpredictably, making early repair crucial to prevent them from compromising the entire windshield.
Let Auto Glass Now Fix Your Windshield Damage
You should now have more insight into how fast a windshield crack spreads. In general, cracks can spread fast and compromise your safety on the road. Auto Glass Now offers excellent customer service and skilled technicians who can quickly and efficiently handle windshield damage. We can advise you on best maintenance practices and tactics for mitigating windshield damage until you get auto glass repair service.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our many convenient auto glass repair locations. Then, you can hit the road with confidence, knowing that your windshield is safe and undamaged by cracks.