Ontario drivers are no strangers to unpredictable weather—sweltering summers, icy winters, and sudden storms can all take a toll on your vehicle. But did you know that these temperature swings can actually make your windshield cracks worse? Whether you have a small chip or a hairline crack, changes in weather can cause serious damage if left unchecked.
At RAM Auto Glass, we repair and replace all types of vehicle glass, including side windows and door glass, which are especially vulnerable to weather-related stress. Serving Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Markham, and the surrounding areas, our certified mobile technicians help you fix the damage before the next weather change makes it worse.
How Temperature Changes Impact Auto Glass
Glass expands and contracts with temperature. When the outside temperature drops or rises quickly, it stresses the already damaged glass. In winter, cold air cools your windshield, and when you blast the defroster inside the vehicle, the sudden temperature difference can cause the crack to spread.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, windshields are designed to maintain structural integrity—but damage from thermal expansion can compromise this, especially during freeze-thaw cycles in Canadian winters.
Cold Weather Worsens Existing Cracks
In colder months, moisture can seep into even the smallest chips. Once the temperature drops below freezing, the trapped water freezes, expands, and forces the crack to grow. That’s why a seemingly harmless chip in October becomes a dangerous crack by December.
Ontario winters also bring road salt and debris that get kicked up by other vehicles—leading to more chips and scratches. If you already have a weak spot in your auto glass, these impacts become more severe.
Heat Stress in Summer Months
Hot weather brings its own risks. On a 30°C summer day, the interior of your car can heat up to 60°C or more. If your windshield is already damaged, the heat can cause the glass to expand unevenly—spreading the crack.
Then, the moment you turn on your air conditioning, the inside surface of the glass cools rapidly while the exterior stays hot. This temperature shock, much like in winter, puts extra strain on the glass structure.
Sudden Weather Shifts in Ontario
Spring and fall often bring drastic temperature swings in a single day—cold mornings, warm afternoons, then chilly evenings. That fluctuation alone can push a small crack into a dangerous fracture.
The Weather Network regularly reports these dramatic changes in Ontario, which is why so many drivers see cracked glass escalate during seasonal transitions.
Wind and Hail Impact
While not as common, wind and hailstorms can cause direct damage—especially to side and door windows. Unlike laminated windshields, these are made of tempered glass and will often shatter on impact. If you’re already dealing with minor weather-related wear, one hailstone is all it takes to cause a break.
Prevention Tips for Ontario Drivers
- Repair chips early, before cold or hot weather spreads them.
- Avoid blasting hot air on cold glass or cold air on hot glass too quickly.
- Park in garages or shaded areas when possible.
- Use a windshield cover in winter to reduce snow/ice buildup.
- Inspect your auto glass regularly, especially before seasonal changes.
Still unsure how bad the damage is? Check out our Work Gallery to see before-and-after examples of real repairs in Ontario conditions.
Related Reading
- The Dangers of Driving With a Cracked Windshield
- Auto Glass Repair vs Replacement: How to Decide
- What Is Auto Glass Repair and When Do You Need It?
Stay Ahead of the Weather—Book Your Glass Repair Today
Ontario’s weather is unpredictable, but your safety shouldn’t be. RAM Auto Glass offers certified, mobile auto glass repair throughout the GTA. Whether it’s a small chip or a full replacement, we make it easy and convenient.
Contact us now or call (647) 892-4819 to book your weather-smart repair service.