Types of Car Windshield Cracks

Windshield cracks are one of the annoying problems almost every car owner has to face. Most cracks are due to damage caused by an object impacting the windshield glass, like debris or small rocks kicked up from roads or other vehicles. The severity of impact causes different types of cracks or chips, and some may require immediate auto glass repair. If the damage is not fixed soon, the crack can spread and become irreparable. The experts at General Auto Glass enlist some common types of windshield cracks and whether car windshield repair or replacement is a suitable remedy.

Bull’s Eye Crack

As the name suggests, this type of crack resembles a bull’s eye mark. These cracks are circular in shape and more prominent than a ding or chip. They usually penetrate the windshield glass’s outer layer, resulting in a cone-shaped impact point with circular breaks around it. This type of crack can often be repaired, provided the size isn’t too big. If it is a large crack, then car windshield repair may not work, and you may require windshield replacement. 

Star Break Crack

A star break combines a chip and a crack, with short bursts of radial cracks originating from the impact point. The crack resembles a star and hence the name. While a small star break may seem harmless, it can easily branch off to cover the entire windshield! Thus, we recommend that you get such cracks looked at immediately and get the necessary auto glass repair done at the earliest. 

Half Moon Crack 

A half-moon crack resembles a half-circle or half-moon. It is similar to a bull’s eye but with a half-circle shape. This type of crack is not very damaging and can be repaired easily at a low cost. However, half-moon cracks more than an inch in diameter may compromise windshield integrity and require replacement. 

Combination Crack

A combination crack occurs when the windshield has both a bull’s eye and a star break crack. Such damage is hard to repair as they usually affect both the upper and bottom layers of the windshield glass. Even a tiny combo crack may require complete windshield replacement if it’s deep and has damaged the windshield’s structural integrity. 

Stress Crack

This type of crack is not caused by impact. Instead, it occurs due to sudden extreme changes in the temperature of the glass. It does not have an impact point and is in the shape of a straight or slightly bent line. Such cracks are formed when there is a considerable temperature variation—cleaning your snow/ice-covered car with hot water can cause a stress crack. That’s why one should remove the ice with cold water rather than hot or warm water. 

The Last Word

Never ignore windshield cracks; go for a professional assessment from a trustworthy car windshield repair shop for your safety and prevent further damage. Trying to fix cracks on your own may make things worse and necessitate a replacement. 

Trust the Expertise and Experience of General Auto Glass

Car windshield repair or replacement is quick, effective, and affordable with General Auto Glass! As the leaders in auto glass repair & replacement across the GTA, we get the repairs right and promise 100% customer satisfaction & a workmanship warranty! Our mobile repair service offers hassle-free doorstep windshield repair & replacement. Repairs at team General take about 30 minutes, while total replacements can be completed in just 3 hours! So, what are you waiting for? Contact us for a free quote or request one through our online form today!