Temporary DIY Methods to Stop a Windshield Crack From Spreading
You can try a few DIY temporary fixes to stop the crack from spreading if you cannot get it repaired or replaced immediately. These are only temporary fixes, and you need to find a permanent fix for your cracked glass.
Repair your windshield yourself with a DIY kit
You can easily find these DIY windshield repair kits at your local auto parts store. Here are the steps you need to follow to fix your cracked windshield:
- Let the area dry after cleaning with an auto glass cleaner.
- Use the suction cup stabilizer tool to stop the crack from spreading.
- Use a 1/16-inch drill bit to make a small hole in the top layer.
- Then, apply the resin in the windshield repair kit to the crack and hole. Make sure it covers the entire area.
- Cure resin by exposing it to direct sunlight, or by using a UV pen.
- Remove the stabilizer tool, and remove any resin residue with a razor.
Crazy Glue or Clear Nail Polish
You may not believe it, but clear nail polish combined with crazy glue or superglue can be used to temporarily fix small cracks in windshields. Here’s how:
- Use an auto glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth to clean the crack.
- Apply clear nail polish or superglue directly to the crack
- Let it dry completely before driving
This method seals the crack, preventing dirt and moisture from entering. These can accelerate its spread. Although it’s not a permanent fix, clear nail polish will buy you time until you can get the crack fixed at a repair store.
Clear Packing Tape
A quick and temporary way to stop a minor windshield crack is by covering it with clear packing tape.
- Make sure the area surrounding the crack is dry and clean
- Cut out a piece large enough to cover a crack
- Apply the tape to the damaged area and press out any air bubbles
Do not wash the car or the area surrounding the taped crack.
Covering the crack in your windshield with packing tape will help to prevent moisture seeping into it and debris getting stuck. This is not a permanent fix. Make sure you schedule an appointment with a professional windshield repair technician as soon as possible.
These temporary fixes and DIY techniques can be helpful in an emergency, but they also come with risks and limitations. If you do not repair a crack correctly, even a small one can be worse. DIY fixes will only be temporary. Your windshield still needs to be repaired or replaced by a professional as soon as possible.
Preventing Future Windshield Cracks
The best way to stop windshield cracks from occurring is to prevent them in the first instance. Some cracks cannot be avoided, but there are ways to reduce your risk.
Defensive driving: Increase the distance you follow behind other vehicles, particularly large trucks which are more likely than smaller vehicles to hurl debris. Rock chips can be prevented by avoiding gravel roads.
Regular maintenance: Check your windshield often and fix small chips before they become cracks. Wash your vehicle regularly to avoid dirt accumulation around chips.
Parking smartly: Park your car under a covered area or in a garage whenever possible to avoid hazards such as hail, branches that may fall, etc. If you have to park outdoors, keep your car away from trees.
Avoid extreme temperatures: When possible, park your car in the shade on hot days and lower the windows slightly to reduce the risk of stress cracks caused by sudden temperature changes. Use a window heater to warm up your frozen windshield. This will prevent a crack in your windshield from sudden temperature changes.
Although preventative measures can’t eliminate the possibility of a cracked glass, they do reduce your chances. To prevent a crack in your windshield from spreading, it is important to be proactive.
This post was written by a professional at At Home Auto Glass. https://www.athomeautoglass.com/ is your prime destination for comprehensive auto glass services serving: Sarasota, Tampa, Orlando, Fort Myers, Tallahassee, Ocala, Gainesville, and Jacksonville, catering to a diverse array of vehicles and needs. Specializing in windshield repair and replacement, we ensure clarity and safety for every drive. Our expertise doesn’t end there; we also offer back glass replacement, side window replacement, and cater to specific needs for RV glass, commercial vehicles, luxury vehicles, and classic cars, ensuring that every vehicle type is serviced with precision and care.
