Sooner or later, it happens to every car owner. You’re cruising down the highway, and out of nowhere something hits your windshield and leaves a crack. Now what? Driving with a crack that hampers your view of the road is illegal in most states, but many car owners make the mistake of ignoring the seemingly minor ones until they grow into bigger, unavoidable problems down the road. Here’s some insight on what causes a cracked windshield and why it requires your urgent attention.

The Causes of a Cracked Windshield

Any object that hits your windshield with enough force could cause a crack. However, there are some causes that are more common than others. Most auto glass experts will tell you that road gravel is responsible for the majority of windshield damage. The spinning tires of vehicles driving in front of you can fling up gravel or rocks from the roadway and into your windshield.

Weather is another culprit. Drivers caught in a hail storm often end up with damage to the entire exterior of their vehicle including the windshield. Even fluctuating outdoor temperatures can expand or contract auto glass causing cracks. If you get involved in an auto collision, windshield cracks may appear in the aftermath.

Replace a Cracked Windshield ASAP

Aside from being unsightly, windshield cracks can amplify sun glare, impair your depth perception while driving, and block out huge sections of the road. This handicap puts you, your passengers, and other motorists at risk. A crack left unchecked can also quickly spread across the windshield and cause it to shatter or cave in from the slightest impact.

How to Know if You Need a Windshield Replacement Instead of Repair

Not all cracks will require a total replacement of your windshield. Choosing the right course of action really depends on the extent of the damage. A crack that is less than three inches long, or a chip that’s smaller than a quarter, can be repaired with an epoxy or acrylic filler. These methods will seal off a crack from rainwater, snow, and debris and prevent it from growing larger.

Keep in mind that fixing the glass is not a perfect solution to the problem, as it may still have visible flaws. To know for sure if replacement is necessary, hire an auto glass specialist to do an assessment of the damage. Most professional auto glass repair services will also stand behind their work and offer their customers a warranty.

Have you noticed a crack on your windshield recently? If so, don’t delay — make an appointment with The Auto Glass Company. With over 15 years of experience, they are staffed with the top auto glass repair and cracked windshield replacement professionals in Troy, MO. Call them today at (636) 697-7222 or visit their website for service details.