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The Dangers of Ignoring Windshield Damage in Freezing Temperatures

Nov 18, 2024

Windshield damage, such as small cracks and chips, may seem like a minor issue, but when winter arrives, these small imperfections can become major safety hazards. For drivers in Northeast Ohio, where freezing temperatures and snowstorms are common, addressing windshield damage before winter is essential. Ignoring even the smallest cracks can lead to rapid windshield deterioration and costly repairs.

In this blog, we’ll explain the specific risks that cold weather poses to your windshield and why repairing even minor damage should be a priority as temperatures drop below freezing.

windshield in snow

Why Freezing Temperatures Are Bad for Windshield Damage

When temperatures drop below freezing, your windshield is subjected to significant stress due to the expansion and contraction of glass. Here’s how this happens:

  1. Thermal Expansion and Contraction: Glass expands when heated and contracts when cooled. During the day, your windshield may experience fluctuating temperatures—cool mornings, warm afternoons, and freezing nights. This constant cycle of expansion and contraction weakens the integrity of any existing damage, such as chips or cracks.
  2. Moisture Freezing in Cracks: Water can seep into even the tiniest cracks in your windshield. When temperatures dip below freezing, this water turns into ice, expanding and putting additional pressure on the glass. As the ice expands, it forces the crack to grow larger.
  3. Stress from Defrosting: In freezing temperatures, drivers often turn on their vehicle’s defroster to clear the windshield. The sudden rush of hot air can cause the glass to expand rapidly, while the rest of the windshield remains cold. This uneven heating creates stress in the glass, further increasing the chances of cracks spreading.

Key Risks of Ignoring Windshield Damage in Winter

Ignoring small windshield damage in freezing temperatures can lead to a variety of risks, both to your safety and your wallet. Below are the top reasons why timely repairs are critical:

1. Small Cracks Turn into Large Cracks

  • Why it happens: As explained, freezing temperatures and moisture can cause small chips to expand quickly. A tiny crack that may have been manageable in warmer weather can become a large crack that stretches across your windshield in a matter of days when exposed to the cold.
  • Consequence: Large cracks compromise the structural integrity of your windshield, making it more prone to shattering in an accident or even during normal driving conditions.

2. Reduced Visibility and Driving Hazards

  • Why it happens: Cracks and chips in your windshield can distort light, especially when it reflects off snow, ice, or water. This distortion can reduce visibility while driving, making it harder to see pedestrians, vehicles, or obstacles on the road.
  • Consequence: Reduced visibility increases the risk of accidents, particularly in winter when road conditions are already dangerous due to ice, snow, and limited daylight hours.

3. Compromised Structural Integrity

  • Why it happens: Windshields do more than just provide a view of the road—they are an essential part of your vehicle’s structural support. In the event of an accident, the windshield helps prevent the roof from collapsing and supports the proper deployment of airbags.
  • Consequence: A cracked windshield cannot provide the same level of protection, putting you and your passengers at higher risk in the event of a collision.

4. Expensive Repairs or Replacements

cold weather windshield

  • Why it happens: Addressing a small chip or crack with a simple repair is far less expensive than replacing an entire windshield. However, if you ignore the problem and the crack spreads, you may have no choice but to opt for a costly replacement.
  • Consequence: A small repair costs a fraction of the price of a full windshield replacement, so delaying the repair not only increases your risk but also the cost.

5. Legal Issues and Failed Inspections

  • Why it happens: In many states, including Ohio, driving with a cracked windshield can lead to failed vehicle inspections. If the crack obstructs your view or is large enough, you could be fined for driving with a compromised windshield.
  • Consequence: Fines and failed inspections can add additional financial strain, not to mention the inconvenience of needing to fix the problem under tighter deadlines.

How to Prevent Windshield Damage from Getting Worse

Taking proactive steps before the first freeze of winter can save you from dealing with dangerous and costly windshield problems. Here are some tips to protect your windshield from further damage:

  • Fix Cracks and Chips Immediately: Don’t wait for cold weather to hit. Schedule a windshield repair as soon as you notice any damage. At Defender Auto Glass, we offer mobile repair services throughout Northeast Ohio, so you don’t have to worry about making time for a shop visit.
  • Use Your Defroster Properly: Avoid blasting hot air directly onto a cold windshield. Instead, gradually warm up the glass by starting the defroster on low and increasing the temperature slowly.
  • Park Indoors When Possible: If you have access to a garage or covered parking, use it. This helps shield your vehicle from extreme temperature changes and frost buildup.
  • Be Gentle When Removing Ice: Never use boiling water or sharp objects to clear ice from your windshield. This can cause the glass to crack further. Use a plastic scraper and de-icer spray instead.

Conclusion: Don’t Risk It—Repair Your Windshield Before Winter Hits

Winter in Northeast Ohio can be harsh, and driving with a damaged windshield makes the cold months even more dangerous. The combination of freezing temperatures, moisture, and thermal stress can quickly turn a small windshield crack into a big problem. For your safety and your wallet, it’s essential to repair any windshield damage before winter sets in.

At Defender Auto Glass, we specialize in quick and convenient windshield repairs and replacements across Northeast Ohio, from Mentor to Akron. Our mobile service can come to your home or office, making it easy to address any windshield issues before they escalate in the winter cold.

Get in touch with us today for a free quote and protect your vehicle from the dangers of freezing temperatures this winter.