What to Do When Your Windshield Sustains Damage
A Complete Safety & Repair Guide for Ottawa Drivers
Your windshield plays a critical role in your vehicle’s safety. It supports the roof in a rollover, helps airbags deploy correctly, and provides clear visibility while driving. When your windshield sustains damage—whether it’s a small chip or a spreading crack—knowing what to do next can protect both your safety and your wallet.
At JT Auto Glass Repair, we help drivers across Ottawa, Orleans, Kanata, Nepean, Barrhaven, Gloucester, and Stittsville handle windshield damage quickly and professionally.
Step 1: Assess the Damage Immediately
Not all windshield damage is the same. Look closely and ask yourself:
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Is it a small stone chip (smaller than a loonie)?
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Is the crack spreading or growing longer?
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Is the damage located in the driver’s line of sight?
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Are there multiple chips or cracks?
Small chips can often be repaired, but larger cracks typically require full windshield replacement.
Step 2: Do Not Ignore Minor Damage
In Ottawa’s climate, temperature changes are one of the biggest causes of crack expansion. A tiny chip can turn into a full crack overnight due to freezing temperatures, road vibrations, or use of the defroster.
Ignoring damage may lead to:
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Reduced visibility
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Ticketing or failed safety inspections
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More expensive repairs later
Step 3: Avoid Temporary DIY Fixes
Many drivers attempt DIY windshield repair kits or tape over cracks. These are temporary at best and can interfere with professional repairs later.
DIY fixes cannot:
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Restore structural strength
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Prevent crack spread long-term
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Meet safety standards
A professional inspection is always the safest option.
Step 4: Contact a Professional Auto Glass Shop
A certified auto glass technician can determine whether your windshield can be repaired or needs replacement.
At JT Auto Glass Repair, we provide:
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OEM-quality glass
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Lifetime workmanship warranty
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Mobile auto glass service
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Insurance claim assistance
👉 Windshield Replacement Ottawa
Step 5: Check Your Insurance Coverage
Many Ontario insurance policies cover windshield repair or replacement with little or no deductible, especially for stone-chip repairs.
Our team works directly with insurance providers to handle paperwork and approvals, saving you time and stress.
👉Government of Ontario – Vehicle Safety
Step 6: Ensure ADAS Calibration if Required
Modern vehicles often have cameras and sensors attached to the windshield for features like:
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Lane departure warning
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Forward collision alert
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Adaptive cruise control
After windshield replacement, ADAS calibration is often required to restore these systems safely.
Step 7: Drive Safely Until Repairs Are Completed
If your windshield is damaged:
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Avoid highways if possible
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Do not blast hot air directly onto the crack
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Keep your distance from trucks and snowplows
Safety should always come first.
Why Choose JT Auto Glass Repair in Ottawa?
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Trusted local auto glass experts
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Serving all Ottawa neighborhoods
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Fast turnaround times
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Insurance-approved services
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Friendly, honest, professional technicians
Book Your Windshield Inspection Today
📞 Phone: 613-854-4527
🌐 Website: https://jtautoglassrepair.com
Don’t let a small chip turn into a major safety risk. If your windshield sustains damage, JT Auto Glass Repair is here to help—quickly, safely, and professionally.