\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Copyright National Automotive Parts Association. While the star crack may start out about the size of a quarter, it can easily spread if the windshield is stressed by temperature changes or pressure. Car owners know that its important to keep their windshield in good condition. You should not wait until the crack is larger. 5 Tips to Stop a Windshield Crack from Spreading. Some people have even reported success using clear acrylic nail polish. Use Super Glue or Nail Polish as a Temporary Fix These household products should only be used to prevent a crack in the windshield from spreading if the crack is small. Erase with clean cotton. Filling a crack with super glue or nail polish is a common method of stopping a crack from spreading. It is important that you speak with a windshield repair expert, as they have the required knowledge, experience, tools, and materials to assist with temporarily repairing your cracked windshield. You'll get a better repair if the break is new and clean. If your damage assessment determined that temporary do-it-yourself fixes would not stop the crack from spreading, you should find a professional windshield repair shop, such as Safelite. If the imperfection is tiny, you can use standard cyanoacrylate glue, more commonly known as Super Glue. Wipe off any excessive glue, but do it gently applying too much force can make the crack worse. Save with Advantage Plan. Can You Stop A Windshield Crack From Spreading? Ed Beery is an Automotive Specialist and the Owner of InTechgrity Automotive Excellence based in Denver, Colorado. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Once the hole has been made, it should be sealed with a clear adhesive. Answer (1 of 10): Unless the crack is a "star" crack it can't be repaired. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. However, it is important to avoid overexposing the glass, as this can weaken the windshields structural integrity. by Victor S. | Last updated Jul 24, 2022 | Windshields. And with that, we come to the end of our list. Use rubbing alcohol, glass cleaner, or soap and water. Impact cracks typically have sharp edges and can spread quickly, so its essential to have them repaired as soon as possible. Still, it can come in handy in a pinch. Luckily, there are many straightforward and affordable methods to stop a windshield crack from spreading. There have been some who reported being successful with clear acrylic nail polish as a temporary fix. Stress cracks typically start at the edge of the windshield and spread inward. Another method is to use a windshield repair kit and seal the crack with resin. So, your cars comprehensive coverage should take care of the cost on the spot. Doing so will protect the affected area from being invaded by moisture and dirt, and will keep it clean. While clear tape and a clean, dry windshield will be able to temporarily hold the damage for a little while, your ultimate solution lies with getting it professionally repaired or replaced. To answer this question, you need to evaluate the type, severity, size, and location of the crack. Superglue the Crack A cheap way to stop a windshield crack from spreading without drilling a hole in the glass is to fill the chip with cyanoacrylate glue, often marketed as Superglue. Arizona drivers that have full coverage car insurance many times are able to get free windshield replacement. Parking your car in shade will ensure that your cracked windshield remains protected against these elements of nature. For this temporary seal, you need to apply a compound called cyanoacrylate. Is there a way to stop a windshield crack from spreading? The best way to do this is using a squeegee. Super glue and nail polish fill the crack and help prevent further damage, but they're not permanent solutions. Superglue: Gently apply the glue in an even layer over the crack. glass, safety glass, visibility, windshield, windshield crack, windshield repair. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Step 3: Apply The Epoxy Resin. All Rights Reserved. Be sure to use minimal pressure to prevent the crack from worsening. Generally, there are two routes that one can take to keep a windshield crack from spreading: If you want to purchase everything you need at once, look for a windshield repair kit. All rights reserved. Proactive Maintenance Smart Tips You Should Know, Signs That Indicate You Need Windshield Replacement. I dont have time but I will check other prices. Many drivers think that a cracked windshield is just a small annoyance, but the issue does not receive the attention that it deserves. A Bonus read: Should you get your windshield repaired or replaced? After dabbling in DIY repairs at home and on the farm, he found his calling in the CGCC Automobile Repair program. This will help hold the glass in place and prevent debris from getting caught in the crack or chip and causing further damage. Let our team at Only 1 Auto Glass fix it for you! Driving over speed bumps too quickly, whipping around corners, and slamming doors can all cause substantial vibrations that can prompt a windshield crack to grow. Dont spray the glass cleaner directly onto the damaged area, as this can interfere with the repair process. Next, using a dropper, squeeze the glue into the crack and move the tip of the dropper to ensure the glue gets spread evenly throughout the crack. Will tape stop a windshield crack from spreading? 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