What Causes Windshield Chips to Keep Spreading?

When a small chip appears on your windshield, it might seem like a minor issue that will fix itself. However, if left untreated, these chips can grow over time and become serious cracks that compromise the safety of your vehicle. Understanding what causes windshield chips to spread is essential for preventing further damage. This article dives into the factors that lead to chip expansion and how to deal with them effectively.

What Makes Windshield Chips Spread Over Time?

Windshield chips can be caused by many factors, but once they appear, they don’t always remain the same size. Several elements contribute to the spreading of these chips:

• Pressure: Windshield chips experience constant pressure, both from the car’s internal environment and external factors like road conditions and air pressure.
• Material Stress: The glass of your windshield is not just a simple, flat surface. It’s designed with tension and stress points to maintain its structure. When a chip occurs, it weakens the glass, making it more vulnerable to expansion under pressure.
• External Impact: Anything from road debris to a heavy rainstorm can worsen the chip. Small stones or debris can impact the chip and cause it to spread further.

By understanding these factors, you can better prevent the chip from expanding by addressing it quickly.

Why Does Temperature Fluctuation Make It Worse?

Temperature fluctuations are one of the main causes of windshield chips worsening over time. Here’s why:

• Expansion and Contraction: Glass expands when heated and contracts when cooled. This constant change in size can stress the chip area, making it more likely to spread.
• Sudden Temperature Changes: A sudden shift in temperature, such as a hot car interior meeting a cold outside environment, can trigger cracks to form quickly.

Temperature fluctuations increase the risk of:

• Cracking: Sudden shifts can cause cracks to form from the original chip.
• Worsening the Existing Chip: The chip, already weakened, can expand further due to the glass’s expansion and contraction.

To prevent this, it’s essential to repair chips as soon as you notice them, especially during times of temperature fluctuation.

Can Driving Habits Affect Chip Worsening?

Yes, driving habits can significantly impact how quickly a windshield chip worsens. Consider the following driving behaviours:

• Rough Roads: Driving on gravel roads or areas with lots of potholes can jolt your car, putting additional pressure on the windshield.
• High Speeds: Driving at high speeds can make the chip more prone to spreading due to wind pressure. The faster you drive, the more stress is placed on the glass.
• Frequent Stopping and Starting: Constant braking or accelerating can cause the glass to flex, contributing to chip expansion.

To minimise damage:

• Avoid driving on rough, uneven surfaces whenever possible.
• Drive at moderate speeds and maintain a steady pace.
• If you’re aware of a chip, try to avoid abrupt movements that could put added stress on your windshield.

Who Should You Contact When Chips Start Spreading?

When you notice a chip starting to spread, you should reach out to a trusted windscreen repair service as soon as possible. Here’s why:

• Expertise in Assessment: Professionals can assess whether the chip can be repaired or if a full replacement is needed.
• Quick Repairs: Catching the chip early can save you money and time. Repairing a small chip is much cheaper than replacing the entire windshield.
• Insurance Coverage: If your car is insured, most policies will cover repairs for small chips, which can prevent costly out-of-pocket expenses. 

It’s important not to ignore a spreading chip, as delaying repairs can lead to further damage. To avoid this, schedule your mobile windscreen repair appointment as soon as you notice the issue, ensuring that the chip doesn’t worsen and compromise your safety.

Is It Safe to Drive With a Spreading Windshield Chip?

Driving with a spreading chip is not recommended. Here’s why:

• Decreased Visibility: As the chip spreads, it can obstruct your view, especially when light reflects off the damaged area.
• Increased Risk of a Full Crack: The chip can evolve into a full crack, compromising the structural integrity of the windshield. This increases the risk of the glass shattering during an accident or impact.
• Safety Hazard: A weakened windshield is a safety risk, as it may not protect you effectively in the event of a crash, which is one of the key factors affecting vehicle safety standards.

It’s best to address a spreading chip as soon as possible by contacting a professional to repair it before it worsens into a major crack.

How to Know If Your Chip Can Be Repaired or Needs Replacement

Not every chip can be repaired. It depends on several factors:

Repairable chip vs. Replaceable chip

Ensure Safety With Professional Mobile Windscreen Repair

Windscreen chips might seem like a small issue, but they can escalate quickly if not dealt with properly. Temperature fluctuations, driving habits, and the chip’s location all play a role in determining whether a chip will spread or not. To prevent further damage and ensure your safety, you can schedule a consultation with GRS Windscreen PRO and get the expert repair for your vehicle’s needs.