Windshields are critical for our safety while driving — cracks in them necessitate windshield repair. Otherwise, how will we be protected from outside elements like debris, weather, and even more severe accidents?
Road debris, construction sites, and unpredictable weather often lead to rock chips. A small impact could create significant issues, making it vital to learn about their origins.
In this article, we will explore the leading causes of windshield rock chips, the various types of damages that occur, and the factors that contribute to these issues. Let’s dive into the world of windshield care and support your journey with a safer driving experience.
Common causes of windshield rock chips
Windshield rock chips can happen anytime you’re driving. When a chip occurs, quick rock and chip repair is key. Let’s explore what causes these pesky chips.
Road debris
Road debris is a common cause of windshield rock chips. Pieces of tire, small bits of metal, and other litter get kicked up by cars and might hit your windshield at high speeds, leading to minor chips or larger cracks.
Rocks and gravel
Rocks and gravel are a big problem on the road. These tiny particles come loose, especially on gravel roads. Passing cars can throw them into the air and onto your windshield, easily damaging it.
Construction sites
Dump trucks and construction vehicles often drop gravel or stones. These bounce on the road and damage the layers of glass in your windshield.
Weather conditions
Weather plays a significant role in windshield damage. Extreme temperatures weaken windshield glass. Cold temperatures make the outer layer of your windshield more brittle. This brittleness makes it easier for a minor chip to turn into a larger crack, requiring a windshield replacement. Similarly, hot weather expands existing chips.
These causes show why acting quickly when you spot a chip is crucial. Delaying rock and chip repair can transform a minor issue into a more costly one. Consider mobile rock chip repair for quick and convenient service.
Types of windshield damage
Star breaks
Like a tiny star, star breaks have lines radiating from a central point. They occur when small rocks hit the windshield. Each line can be a crack that spreads over time, especially in extreme temperatures. You’ll often see star breaks in damaged windshields that need quick rock and chip repair.
Bull’s eyes
Bull’s eyes are round with a clear impact point in the middle. They look like the target shape of a bullseye. Windshields can get bull’s eyes when pebbles or other small objects are thrown by tires or fall from dump trucks. If not fixed promptly, they may need windshield replacement.
Combination breaks
Combination breaks are a mix of star breaks and bull’s eyes. They feature both radiating cracks and circular shapes. These breaks may compromise the strength of the entire windshield. Professional auto glass technicians recommend mobile rock chip repair to prevent more damage.
Edge cracks
Edge cracks start within two inches of the windshield edge. They often result from extreme road conditions and sudden temperature changes. Once an edge crack begins, it can quickly grow without auto glass repair.
You need to act fast if your windshield has star breaks, bull’s eyes, combination breaks, or edge cracks. Professional windshield repair ensures safety and keeps the windshield in good condition. Keep your windshield clear of chips or cracks with mobile rock chip repair from trusted experts.
Factors contributing to windshield damage
Stress distribution
Stress distribution is about how pressure spreads across the windshield. When a rock or other foreign object strikes your windshield, the energy from the impact spreads through the layers of glass.
Not treated leads to minor chips, larger cracks, or even windshield replacement. The outer layer of windshield glass is particularly susceptible because it’s closest to the outside world and takes the first hit.
Tensile forces
Tensile forces pull on the windshield and may cause harm. When something presses or hits the glass, the inside layers of the glass stretch. If this force becomes too much, it could cause the windshield to crack or chip.
Humidity and moisture exposure
Humidity and moisture also play a role in windshield damage. Water can seep into existing chips and cracks, especially if you ignore them for too long. This moisture expands, causing the layers of glass to separate or crack. If water collects in a chip and freezes, the damage may worsen.
Prevention tips for windshield rock chips
Windshield rock chips are common, but you can take steps to reduce them. A damaged windshield will obstruct your view and even lead to larger cracks. Here are some helpful tips to keep your windshield safe and sound.
Avoiding hazardous areas
Stay away from roads with lots of construction vehicles. These big trucks tend to kick up small rocks and debris. Avoid passing dump trucks or tailgating other cars too closely. Drive carefully on rough roads when construction is going on.
Road conditions matter, too. Roads with lots of pebbles or loose gravel often cause chips. Drive slowly and maintain a safe distance from other cars. When driving in unsafe conditions, like during storms or heavy traffic, be extra careful to keep your windshield intact.
Using protective films
Consider using protective films on your windshield glass to prevent minor chips. These films act like a shield against small foreign objects. They are not visible and won’t obstruct your view of the road.
Protective films can also help keep your windshield from shattering in case of a larger impact. These films strengthen the outer layer of your windshield. You can find them at an auto glass repair shop or ask a professional windshield repair shop for more information.
Rock chip repair at Utah Mobile Auto Glass
If you have windshield rock chips, don’t let them compromise your safety. Utah Mobile Auto Glass specializes in quick and efficient rock chip repairs and will restore your windshield to its optimal condition. You can bring your vehicle to us, or we’ll come to you with our mobile rock chip repair services.
Contact us today to fix those pesky chips and prevent further damage to your windshield. Trust the experts at Utah Mobile Auto Glass to keep your view clear and your travels safe.
