5 Surprising Things That Can Crack Your Windshield This Month
One small crack can ruin your view and compromise your safety in seconds.
If you're driving around North Georgia this March, you're more at risk than you think. This article by Jose’s Mobile Auto Glass, your windshield repair expert, shares five lesser-known causes of windshield damage that are active this month and exactly what to do about them.
Keep reading, because if you catch these early, you can save time and avoid bigger problems.
Let’s break down the most surprising culprits.
Can Temperature Swings Crack Your Windshield?
Yes, and it happens more than you’d think.
One of the most common causes of cracks in early spring is thermal stress. Your windshield expands in the heat and contracts when it cools. That stress builds up at weak points in the glass, like an existing chip or a spot where the glass is slightly thinner.
Here’s how it plays out:
- You park in the sun during the day.
- The cabin heats up to 100°F or more.
- That night, temperatures drop to the 30s.
- The glass contracts, and a small chip spiderwebs overnight.
If your car has a chip and you blast the defroster in the morning, that sudden heat on cold glass can also trigger a crack.
What You Can Do:
- Don’t crank the heat on high. Warm your car slowly.
- Park in a garage or shaded area when possible.
- Get chips fixed as soon as they show up, especially during seasonal changes.
According to Glass.com, even minor chips can crack in cold weather, especially during temperature swings of 20°F or more.
Can Tree Branches Really Damage a Windshield?
Absolutely. March wind gusts and storms knock down more than leaves.
North Georgia’s spring weather includes sudden gusts that reach 20 to 30 mph. If your car is parked under a tree during a storm, falling sticks and branches are a real threat. Even smaller branches can cause deep chips or long cracks depending on the impact angle.
How to Avoid It:
- Skip the shady tree spot if high winds are in the forecast.
- Avoid parking under trees that drop limbs easily, like pines and oaks.
- Check your windshield after storms for even hairline cracks.
Does Pollen Season Really Affect Windshield Glass?
Yes, but not in the way most drivers expect.
In Georgia, March marks the start of high pollen counts. That yellow dust might seem harmless, but when mixed with improper cleaning methods, it becomes a problem.
Many drivers try to wipe it off using dry paper towels or dirty cloths. That causes micro-scratches, especially when there's grit or sap mixed in. Over time, these small abrasions can weaken the surface.
Here’s What Happens:
- Scratches create weak spots that crack easier under pressure or heat.
- Rubbing too hard along the edges can disrupt the seal.
- If your wipers aren’t clean, they’ll drag particles across the glass like sandpaper.
What to Do Instead:
- Rinse your windshield with clean water before wiping.
- Use a microfiber cloth and a proper glass cleaner.
- Replace worn-out wiper blades at the start of spring.
You can also check pollen.com to track peak days and avoid parking under high-producing trees.
Can Pressure from Closing Car Doors Crack the Glass?
Yes—especially if you already have a chip.
It might seem odd, but shutting your car doors too hard creates a pressure wave inside the cabin. When the doors close fast, that sudden air compression can push outward on the glass.
This is especially risky if:
- You have a crack near the edge.
- Your windshield was recently replaced.
- It’s cold outside and the glass is already contracted.
Pro Tips:
- Always close doors gently, especially during weather changes.
- Warn family or rideshare passengers if your windshield has damage.
- If you’ve had recent service, ask how long the adhesive needs to be fully set before putting pressure on the glass.
Can DIY Cleaning Products Damage My Windshield?
They can, especially if they contain ammonia or harsh solvents.
Plenty of off-the-shelf glass sprays promise a streak-free shine. But not all are safe for automotive glass. Some strip away protective coatings, while others can damage surrounding trim or sensors.
Ammonia-based products can also weaken rubber seals, making leaks more likely during spring storms.
What Makes It Worse in March:
- Residual road salt and sand cling to the glass.
- More sunlight reveals dirt, so people clean glass more aggressively.
- Wiper fluid with old or frozen nozzles can drip onto cracks.
Safer Alternatives:
- Use automotive-specific glass cleaner.
- Avoid cleaning in direct sunlight.
- Don’t use blades or scrapers unless the glass is wet.
What If I Already Have a Chip?
If you’ve spotted a chip, even a small one, this is your chance to act before it becomes a full crack.
Expert windshield repair is often quick and affordable, especially if done before damage spreads. It can prevent moisture from seeping in, maintain structural integrity, and avoid more expensive replacements.
Many insurance policies even cover repairs with no out-of-pocket cost, especially in Georgia.
How to Check If It’s Repairable:
- If it’s smaller than a quarter and not in the driver’s line of sight, it’s often repairable.
- Cracks under three inches may qualify.
- Damage near the edge or in front of ADAS cameras usually requires replacement.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
Waiting a week can turn a chip into a full crack. That means:
- Your windshield becomes unsafe in a crash.
- You could get a ticket if it blocks your view.
- Replacing glass costs up to 5x more than a repair.
Fixing it early saves time, money, and stress. And with mobile service, you don’t even need to leave your driveway.
Conclusion
Your windshield faces more threats in March than you might expect. From temperature swings to pollen and flying branches, this month is one of the worst times to ignore minor damage.
Knowing what can crack your windshield, and how to prevent it helps you avoid expensive repairs later. We’ve talked about pressure changes, poor cleaning habits, and even door slams as hidden dangers, but they’re all avoidable.
If you see a chip or hairline crack, don’t guess. Have it checked by a technician who knows what to look for. At Jose’s Mobile Auto Glass, we offer quick, professional help at your location - including windshield repair in Cumming, Alpharetta, or anywhere in North Georgia.
Our repairs restore clarity, and our mobile service saves you a trip. We also help handle the paperwork with your insurance provider, so there’s nothing to stress about.
Call or text us today at (470) 798-6023 or get a quote online. We’ll help you stay safe behind the wheel with glass that’s clean, strong, and built to last—rain or shine.
