10 Different Types of Windshield Cracks and Their Causes
Windshield cracks can be hectic and hazardous, but identifying the various types of cracks and their causes would help you take precautions to prevent them in the future. So, here are the types and causes of windshield cracks.
1. Chips and Small Cracks
Chips are the most common type of windshield damage. They result from small debris hitting the glass, like rocks or gravel. Such slight dings are under an inch in diameter and can easily occur if you drive behind another vehicle, kicking debris off the road. Chips can grow into larger cracks unless treated, and they sometimes form because of temperature changes or constant driving vibrations.
Causes
- Debris from the road
- Extreme temperatures
- Accidental impact with objects like a car door
2. Stress Cracks
Stress cracks develop without any impact on the windshield. This type of windshield crack is usually caused by sudden and severe temperature changes, such as when you pour hot water on a frosted windshield to defrost it. Stress cracks can also form if the car is parked in extreme heat for prolonged periods and then quickly cooled, for example, by air conditioning.
Causes
- Drastic temperature changes (hot to cold or vice versa)
- Structural weaknesses in the windshield
- Age of the windshield
3. Edge Cracks
Edge cracks are long cracks that begin within two inches of the windshield’s edge. They are particularly dangerous because windshield edges are more vulnerable to stress. Edge cracks can easily spread across the windshield, compromising its structural integrity.
Causes
- Poor installation or a weak windshield frame
- Debris impact near the edge
- Stress from car vibrations
4. Spider-Web Cracks
As the name suggests, a spider-web crack resembles a spider’s web or the cracks in shattered glass. This type of crack is often caused by a significant impact, such as a large rock or object striking the windshield. While a spider-web crack may not always impair visibility immediately, it will weaken the windshield and could easily spread over time.
Causes
- Large object impact (such as a rock or hail)
- Vehicle accidents
- Severe pressure on the windshield
5. Bull’s Eye Cracks
Bull’s eye cracks are circular and resemble a bull’s eye target. This kind of windshield crack is typically caused by a rounded object hitting the windshield, like a stone or hailstone. Bull’s eye cracks are more serious than chips, and although repair is possible, the crack can still spread if not handled correctly.
Causes
- Rounded debris like stones or hail
- High-speed impacts
- Accidents involving debris
6. Half-Moon Cracks
Half-moon cracks are similar to bull’s eye in that they are incomplete. These occur when a rounded object strikes the windshield, so the breakage is not symmetrical, like a bull’s eye crack. Half-moon cracks are easier to repair than bull’s eye cracks because they are incomplete, but they should be attended to sooner rather than later.
Causes
- Small objects like rocks or pebbles hitting the glass
- Low-speed collisions with debris
7. Star Break Cracks
Star break cracks are developed around a single point of impact. The small cracks branch out in various directions from that central point. The nature of the crack bears a striking resemblance to the star. Star break cracks can begin as small cracks but have the potential to spread fast, thus exposing the windshield to further damage.
Causes
- Impact from small, hard objects like gravel
- High-speed debris
- Temperature-induced expansion and contraction
8. Non-Impact Cracks
Non-impact cracks are peculiar because they are not caused by an external object hitting the windshield. This type of windshield crack is caused due to structural defects, poor installation, or excessive force exerted on the vehicle. These kinds of cracks can be said to be a bit more challenging to diagnose since they do not have any point of impact.
Causes
- Improper installation or weak windshield support
- Temperature stress
- Car vibrations or frame movement
9. Long Cracks
Long cracks over six inches typically progress horizontally across the windshield. These are the most dangerous forms of damage because they compromise the structural integrity of the entire windshield. Long cracks usually result from an initial impact, such as a chip or small crack that eventually grows across the glass.
Causes
- Neglected chips or small cracks
- Continuous exposure to extreme weather conditions
- Pressure from driving vibrations
10. Combination Cracks
Combination cracks refer to having more than one crack or chip at one location. For example, you may find a bull’s eye crack with star breaks spreading across it. Such cracks are also tricky and challenging to fix because they encompass various points of weakness on the windshield.
Causes
- Severe impacts from large objects
- Neglecting smaller cracks, leading to worsening conditions
- Stress and pressure on an already weakened windshield
What Causes Your Windshield to Crack Suddenly?
Sudden impacts from debris, extreme temperature fluctuations, aging, and manufacturing defects can cause windshield cracking. Prolonged exposure to sunlight, UV rays, and weathering can also contribute to types of windshield cracks and their causes. Additionally, minor imperfections in the glass, such as scratches or pre-existing chips, can weaken the windshield, making it more susceptible to cracking from sudden impacts. Temperature changes, like using hot air to defrost a frozen windshield, can create stress points, leading to cracks. It’s also worth noting that the way a vehicle is driven—such as hitting potholes or driving on uneven surfaces—can cause vibrations that may lead to sudden cracks.
What Kind of Windshield Cracks Spread?
Rock chip cracks and star breaks are types of windshield cracks that can spread quickly if not addressed promptly. These cracks can grow rapidly due to temperature changes, humidity, and other environmental factors. Other types of cracks, such as edge cracks and long cracks, can also spread if not repaired quickly, especially if they are located near the edges of the windshield where stress is concentrated. The size and location of a crack significantly affect its likelihood of spreading; for instance, a hairline crack near the driver’s line of sight may expand more rapidly due to pressure from driving and external factors. Regular inspections can help catch these cracks early, preventing more extensive damage.
How Can You Prevent Windshield Cracks?
To prevent windshield cracks, regularly clean and inspect your windshield, avoid driving through debris, park in shaded areas, and apply a windshield sealant to prevent water damage. Additionally, consider using a protective film that can absorb impacts and reduce the likelihood of cracks from minor debris. Always maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front of you to minimize the risk of debris hitting your windshield. When driving in extreme weather conditions, be cautious about sudden temperature changes and avoid using hot water to defrost your windshield. Lastly, timely repairs for any small chips or scratches can prevent them from developing into larger cracks.
