A damaged windshield or car window is not just a significant inconvenience; it also poses serious security and safety risks. Regardless of the size of the damage, it’s important to secure your windshield and car window not only to prevent dirt and debris from entering your car but also to better protect yourself from theft and other visibility issues.
Here’s a helpful guide on how to temporarily cover a broken car window and useful advice on how to temporarily fix your broken windshield.
Temporary Fix For Broken Car Window
Generally, it is not advisable to drive a vehicle with a damaged windshield as it compromises the structural integrity of your car, affects driver visibility, and impacts your safety.
The windshield provides critical support to the roof and helps in the proper deployment of airbags during a collision. A damaged windshield is weaker and more likely to shatter upon impact, which can result in serious injuries.
However, there are temporary fixes available for smaller windshield or car window chips and cracks in case your schedule doesn’t allow for an immediate repair.
Plastic Adhesive Film
Covering your windshield with a plastic adhesive film is a practical solution for small cracks and chips as it can provide a protective layer that can keep dirt and moisture from entering the cracks and help prevent them from spreading further.
The clear plastic adhesive also doesn’t disrupt the driver’s vision which is vital for drivers who need an immediate, short-term solution to stabilize their windshield and is easily found at auto parts stores.
Clear Packing Tape
Another quick fix for small chips and cracks on your car’s window or windshield is clear packing tape. Although it is generally used for packaging purposes, the adhesive properties of clear packing tape allow it to adhere well to the glass and provide a temporary protective seal.
Simply apply the clear packing tape over the crack, making sure to press down firmly and eliminate any air bubbles to ensure a good seal. This creates a barrier that protects the crack from debris and moisture, helping to prevent it from worsening until you can get a professional repair.
Windshield Repair Kit
Windshield repair kits are designed to fix cracks and chips by filling them with a specialized resin that solidifies into a glass-like material. These kits help prevent the spread of windshield cracks and temporarily store the appearance of your windshield.
Windshield repair kits are typically inexpensive and can easily be bought at most auto parts stores. However, it’s important to note that this should not be treated as a permanent solution for your damaged windshield. For a more permanent and reliable fix, it’s essential to consult a professional who can properly assess and repair the damage, ensuring the safety and structural integrity of your vehicle.
Practical Car Window Cover For Broken Window or Windshield
Whether you have covered parking or not, it’s important that you properly cover your damaged car window or windshield to prevent additional issues. A well-secured cover protects your car’s interior from weather conditions, such as rain or snow, and prevents dirt and debris from entering.
Additionally, it helps deter thieves and vandals, keeping your vehicle safe until you can arrange for repairs. Here are some helpful tips on how to temporarily cover a broken car window.
Use a Clear Plastic Sheet
Before putting a clear plastic sheet over your damaged car window or windshield, make sure to thoroughly clean the damaged area first.
Measure the size of the damaged area, then cut a piece of the thick plastic sheeting; it can be a heavy-duty trash bag or a piece of clear vinyl. Ensure the plastic sheet is large enough to cover the broken window, leaving an extra margin for easy securing.
Carefully position the clear plastic sheet over the damaged area then prepare a strong, weather-resistant tape like duct tape to seal the edges and to prevent the cover from moving.
Next, open the car door and attach the plastic sheet to the interior side of your car window. Start by taping the top edge nearest to the car, making sure to secure it under the rubber trim with your tape. Repeat this process for the opposite edge, furthest from the car.
Finally, use several pieces of heavy-duty tape to seal the plastic around the window’s perimeter, preventing air and water from entering.
Cardboard Method
You can also use cardboard to temporarily cover your broken car window. Simply measure the damaged area and cut a piece of thick cardboard to size. Insert the cardboard into the window frame from the inside and tape it securely along all edges with duct tape.
Make sure the cardboard fits tightly to prevent it from coming loose. For additional weatherproofing, you can cover the cardboard with plastic sheeting.
Utilize a Tarp and a Blanket
Using a tarp and a blanket to cover your damaged windshield or car windows is a simple yet highly effective way to prevent further damage, as it offers comprehensive protection and insulation.
Cover the exterior of the broken window with the tarp, securing it tightly with duct tape or another strong adhesive. Ensure the tarp is snug and firmly attached. Then, for extra insulation and privacy, place a blanket over the inside of the window opening, securing it with tape or tucking it into the door panel.
Final Thoughts
When dealing with a cracked or chipped windshield or car window, you should limit your driving as much as possible, as these temporary covers do not hold up well against strong winds and could affect driver visibility. If the temporary covering obstructs your view, it is best to avoid driving the vehicle altogether.
Call the auto glass experts at Auto Glass Zone Oakville as soon as you can to get your windshield professionally repaired. Their experienced team will promptly assess and repair the damage, ensuring your car is back on the road safely and quickly.
