As someone who drives in and around Kent, Washington, you know how variable the weather can be. From scorching summer days to cold, wet winters, we experience a wide range of conditions here in the Pacific Northwest. But what many people don’t realize is how much these weather changes can affect a cracked windshield. If you’ve been putting off auto glass repair, you might wonder: will the weather make the crack worse?
At Lucky Dog Auto Glass, we’re often asked about the impact of weather on windshield damage. Here, we’ll explore why a cracked windshield is likely to get worse with weather changes—and why addressing it sooner rather than later is in your best interest.
Why Weather Changes Impact Cracked Windshields
Cracked windshields are more vulnerable to changes in weather for a couple of main reasons:
- Thermal Expansion and Contraction: Glass expands and contracts with temperature changes, and any existing cracks or chips in your windshield will be impacted by this. For instance, a hot day will cause the glass to expand, while cold weather causes it to contract. This repeated stress can cause even a small crack to grow, turning a simple repair into a potential full windshield replacement.
- Moisture Infiltration: Washington is known for its rain, and while we love our lush green environment, that moisture can wreak havoc on damaged windshields. If water seeps into the crack, it can create further stress, particularly when temperatures drop and the water freezes. Freezing water expands, putting more pressure on the glass and widening the crack.
Given these factors, a small crack may quickly spread and worsen with fluctuating weather, leading to the need for windshield replacement instead of a quick, affordable repair.
Temperature Extremes: Heat and Cold
Extreme temperatures can especially impact cracked windshields, and in the Pacific Northwest, we see plenty of both.
- Hot Summer Days: During the summer, the temperature of a parked car’s windshield can soar above 100°F. This high heat causes the glass to expand, and if you’ve got even a small crack, the expansion can make it worse. If you then turn on the air conditioning, the rapid cooling from the inside can put further stress on the crack. This sudden temperature difference can cause a minor crack to run across the windshield, sometimes within seconds.
- Freezing Winter Temperatures: Cold temperatures present their own risks. When the temperature drops, glass contracts, which can stress the damaged area and cause it to worsen. And if water gets into the crack and freezes, it can expand and push the crack further.
This expansion and contraction cycle continues every time there’s a significant temperature shift, which is common in our climate. This is why an untreated crack can quickly go from a minor issue to a major problem.
How Small Cracks Can Lead to Bigger Problems
If you’re thinking about holding off on a repair, it’s important to understand the potential risks. A small chip or crack might seem harmless, but over time, and with exposure to temperature changes, that damage is likely to spread.
Once a crack gets larger than a few inches, it often can’t be repaired and will require a full windshield replacement. Not only is this more costly, but it’s also less convenient. Replacing a windshield generally takes longer than a quick repair—and can potentially keep your car off the road for longer.
Why Prompt Auto Glass Repair Matters
When it comes to auto glass repair, timing is everything. Fixing a crack early is usually faster and much more affordable. Plus, repairing minor damage helps maintain the structural integrity of your windshield. The windshield is an essential part of your vehicle’s safety system; it helps protect you in an accident and keeps the roof from caving in during a rollover. By taking care of small damage early on, you’re also investing in your safety.
What to Do If You Notice a Crack
If you spot a crack in your windshield, don’t wait for the weather to make it worse. Here’s what you can do to address it right away:
- Avoid Rapid Temperature Changes: Try to avoid exposing your windshield to extreme temperature shifts. For example, don’t blast the air conditioning when you get into a hot car or use boiling water to melt ice on a cold morning.
- Get It Repaired Promptly: At Lucky Dog Auto Glass, we’re here to make your auto glass repair as smooth and easy as possible. Getting a crack or chip repaired right away can prevent you from needing a full windshield replacement later on.
- Get an Estimate Online: If you’re concerned about cost, we offer an easy way to get an estimate online. Use our chat feature to get a quick quote for the repair you need.
- Schedule an Appointment: If you’re ready to take action, you can make an appointment with us directly. We’re proud to serve the Kent, Washington area, and our expert team is here to help get you back on the road safely.
Don’t Let a Small Crack Turn into a Major Expense
Weather changes can quickly turn a minor crack into a major windshield issue. Fortunately, auto glass repair is straightforward when handled promptly. By addressing a crack now, you’ll avoid the stress, added cost, and potential safety risks of letting it worsen.
At Lucky Dog Auto Glass, we know how much you rely on your vehicle and how important it is to keep it safe and roadworthy. Don’t let a cracked windshield compromise your safety or your budget. Make an appointment with us or try our easy online chat feature to get an estimate today. We’re here to help—rain or shine.
