0

Emergency Tips for Calgary Drivers After a Windshield Crack

Those vibrant streets and unpredictable weather of Calgary can surprise you sometimes. And not always in the best way, such as with a windshield crack. Whether due to flying debris, temperature fluctuations, or a small crash, a cracked windshield is a major safety hazard. Knowing what to do once you have discovered the damage can keep you safe and reduce repair expenses.

Stealth Windshield Repairs is here with practical, step-by-step tips for Calgary drivers to handle a cracked windshield safely and efficiently.

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Damage

The first thing that will matter after you see a crack on the screen of your phone is to keep calm. And panic isn’t very helpful in making a good decision or in driving safely. 

 Determine:

• Size of the Crack: There’s a difference between a small chip and a large crack.
• Location: Is it blocking the view?
  
• Spread: Has it started to expand?

If the crack isn’t too large and isn’t interfering with your vision, you will be able to keep driving until you arrive at a safe place. But if it’s severe or if it’s impeding your view of the road, pull over at the side of the road as soon as it’s safe.

2. Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes

In Calgary, alternating temperatures can make a windshield crack worse quickly. To help prevent the crack from growing:

• Don’t Blast the AC or Heater: Glass will expand or contract very rapidly with a drastic temperature change.
  
• Avoid Parking in Direct Sunlight: Hot weather can cause the glass to expand, which can result in a crack.
• Gradually Adjust Temperature: If your windshield has frost on it, you’ll want to gently warm it up and not rush to the hot water or the highest setting.
  

The climate in Calgary can be a fickle thing, but the less heat, cold, and pressure exerted on the glass, the more manageable that crack will be.

To learn more about How to Keep Your Windshield Clean in Winter Season in Calgary, check out this helpful blog post.

3. Reduce Driving When Possible

A cracked windshield compromises the structural integrity of your car. Try to:

• Limit Driving: If you can, refrain from driving until your can can get the necessary repairs.
• Take Alternative Transportation: Try to use mass transportation or ridesharing if there is extensive damage.
• Choose Smooth Routes: If you have to be on the road, take less bumpy roads — steering wheel- and coffee-splashing optional.

4. Use Temporary Fixes Wisely

While the best way to handle this issue is to take it to a professional for a proper repair, there are temporary fixes that will hold you over in the meantime:

• Clear Tape or Plastic Film: While the best way to handle this issue is to take it to a professional for a proper repair, there are temporary fixes that will hold you over in the meantime.
• Windshield Repair Kits: Sold at auto stores, these kits can be used to temporarily stabilise small chips.
  
• Avoid Using Glue: There are online tips that recommend superglue, but it can only make matters worse for the damaged glass.
  

5. Maintain a Safe Speed and Drive Cautiously

When you have no choice but to drive, adapt your driving style to protect the windshield:

• Avoid Sudden Braking: This slams the glass and can exacerbate the crack.
• Steer Clear of Potholes: Striking a bump or pothole at a high speed may lead to spidering out the crack.
• Keep Your Distance: Don’t drive closely behind trucks because they can shoot debris that may have caused the crack further into your windshield, leading to an even larger problem.
  

6. Avoid Washing Your Car

Though it might be tempting to wash the windshield, doing so could  make matters worse:

• High-Pressure Washers: The pressure can widen the crack.
• Hot or Cold Water: The glass could be stressed by rapid temperature variations.
• Avoid Chemical Cleaners: Some leave behind residue that can slip through a crack and damage your windshield.
  

7. Monitor the Crack for Changes

The road conditions and weather in Calgary can rapidly impact the length and shape of a crack in your windshield. Monitor it for signs it’s getting worse:

• Mark the Ends: Mark the ends of the crack with a bit of tape.
• Check Daily: Mark any growth in length or direction.
• Listen for Sounds: If you hear creaks or pops, the crack is likely spreading.

8. Schedule a Repair or Replacement Promptly

If a crack is allowed to expand, it may no longer be fixable. In Calgary, there are auto glass repair companies such as Stealth Windshield Repair that provide excellent services and are quick.

• Expert Assessment: Specialists will analyse the damage and offer their suggestions.
  
• On-Site Service: Professional repair shops are available in some areas to repair cars at the owners’ location.
  
• Affordable Pricing: Dealing with a crack sooner rather than later is usually more cost-effective than having the entire windshield replaced.

9. Know When to Replace Instead of Repair

Sometimes, a repair isn’t enough, especially if:

• The Crack is Longer than 12 Inches: Most cracks that exceed 12 inches in length need to be replaced.
• Damage is in the Driver’s Line of Sight: Repair creates a visual distortion from the driver’s line of sight.
• The Crack Reaches the Edge: This weakens the structure, so that it does indeed need to be replaced.

10. 11. Be Proactive for Future Incidents

Though accidents happen, there are measures you can take to help prevent future windshield cracks:

• Invest in Windshield Protection Film: Provides additional defence against pebbles.
• Park in Sheltered Areas: Decreases the chance of falling tree limbs or hail damage.
• Keep a Safe Distance from Construction Vehicles: Cement mixes, gravel, and rocks can have a devastating effect on your windshield.
• Check Road Conditions: Stay away from roads with loose gravel and backroads in this condition.
  

 Why Choose Stealth Windshield Repairs?

If you want a company you can trust for your windshield repair or replacement needs, Stealth Windshield Repairs has the edge for the following reasons.

• Fast and Professional Service: Emergency call-outs answered immediately.
• Skilled Technicians: Certified professionals with extensive experience.
  
• Affordable Rates: Our rates are reasonable, and our standard of quality is high.
• Mobile Repair Services: We come to you, whether at work or home, ensuring minimal disruption to your routine.

Conclusion

A cracked windshield in Calgary is frustrating, to be sure, but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. If you follow these emergency tips, you can take certain measures to keep yourself safe and prevent the damage to your foundation from getting worse. And keep calm, evaluate the crack for severity and drive smart. For fast and reliable service, trust Stealth Windshield Repairs—your go-to provider for Windshield Crack Repair services and more. Don’t risk your safety—get that crack fixed now!