The Top 5 Threats To Your Windshield (And How to Protect It!)

Your windshield and vehicle windows do a lot more than give you a clear view of the road. Auto glass is an important part of your vehicle’s safety, structural integrity, and protection from the elements. Unfortunately, everyday driving, Minnesota weather, and even improper care can lead to chips, cracks, and other damage.

At Apollo Glass in Buffalo, MN, we help drivers throughout the Twin Cities Metro protect their vehicles with professional auto glass repair, windshield replacement, mobile glass service, and ADAS calibration. Here are five common causes of auto glass damage and a few simple ways to help prevent them.

Rocks & Road Debris

A small rock kicked up by another vehicle can leave behind a chip in seconds. Gravel roads, construction zones, and large trucks can increase the risk of flying debris hitting your windshield.

Protect your glass: Leave plenty of space between your vehicle and the one ahead, especially around trucks, trailers, and construction vehicles. If you notice a chip, have it repaired quickly before it has a chance to spread.

Minnesota’s Extreme Temperatures

Minnesota weather isn’t exactly gentle on auto glass. Rapid temperature changes can cause glass to expand and contract, turning a small chip into a much larger crack. Snow, ice, hail, and summer heat can all take their toll.

Protect your glass: Park in a garage or shaded area when possible, use a proper plastic ice scraper in winter, and avoid sudden temperature changes, such as pouring hot water on a frozen windshield or blasting cold air directly onto extremely hot glass.

 Improper Windshield Installation

A windshield needs to be installed correctly to provide the protection it was designed for. Poor installation can contribute to leaks, wind noise, improper fit, and other problems.

Professional windshield replacement helps ensure the correct glass, adhesives, and installation techniques are used. For newer vehicles, it’s also important to consider ADAS calibration following windshield replacement so cameras and sensors associated with your vehicle’s safety systems are properly aligned.

Everyday Wear & Improper Cleaning

Dirty or worn windshield wipers, abrasive cleaning materials, and accumulated grime can scratch or damage auto glass over time.

Protect your glass: Replace worn wiper blades, use automotive glass cleaner and a soft microfiber cloth, and clean your windshield regularly. A little routine maintenance can go a long way toward maintaining clear visibility.

Accidents Happen

A collision isn’t the only accident that can damage auto glass. A stray baseball, falling branch, hailstorm, or object hitting your vehicle can leave you with anything from a small chip to a shattered window.

While you can’t prevent every accident, you can address the damage quickly. Even a minor windshield chip can grow due to vibration, temperature changes, or another impact.

Don’t Wait on Auto Glass Damage

When you notice a chip or crack, taking care of it early can help prevent a small problem from becoming a much bigger one. Apollo Glass provides auto glass repair and windshield replacement in Buffalo, MN and the surrounding West Metro, with convenient mobile service and professional ADAS calibration when needed.

And if insurance is involved, you don’t have to navigate the process alone. Apollo Glass works directly with insurance companies to help handle the claim process, making your repair or replacement as simple and hassle-free as possible.

Whether it’s a rock chip, cracked windshield, or broken vehicle window, contact Apollo Glass online or by calling 763-682-5100 to get your auto glass repaired properly and get back on the road safely.