While many of us take our windscreens for granted, they are responsible for protecting us. And also play a big part in our MOT. When they break or crack or chip, we suddenly realise how important the windscreen is, and how important it is to look after the windscreen. But what exactly causes the windscreen to break, crack or chip? Well, here at Red Rose Windscreens, we are Preston’s leading windscreen experts. As a result, we have produced this guide to the reasons for broken windscreens.
Temperature Changes
One of the biggest reasons for broken windscreens is extreme temperature changes. Cold water on a windscreen on a hot day can cause a crack, while the heat from inside your car on a cold day can also cause cracks to appear. The temperature changes cause imperfections in the glass to suddenly expand and contract, causing the cracks.
Loose gravel
Driving over loose gravel can cause little stones to jump and bump into the windscreen itself. Repeated hits, or larger pieces, can cause chips to appear in the windscreen. A chip is the first step to a broken windscreen, as it can quickly lead to a crack.
Uneven, bumpy roads
Do you drive over a lot of potholes? Are your roads bumpy and uneven? If so, any existing chips in your windscreen can quickly become cracks. This is simply from the motion of the car, bouncing over challenging surfaces.
Structural Weakness
Windscreens are an important tool for the cars safety. Supporting the roof and the airbags, the windscreen has to be able to take a lot of pressure. As a result, they are secured into place with a strong adhesive. Occasionally, this adhesive heating up and cooling down too fast can cause stress fractures to appear at the top of the windscreen. This is another of the reasons for broken windscreens.
If you have a crack or a chip that needs professional attention, get in touch with the experts today, here at Red Rose Windscreens.