The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) offers some of the most breathtaking views in the world. However, driving along California's coastal routes also exposes your vehicle to specific environmental hazards that are notoriously tough on auto glass.
Coastal Erosion and Road Debris
Coastal roads are constantly battling erosion. Winds blowing off the ocean carry sand and small pebbles directly across the tarmac. Following closely behind other vehicles—especially larger trucks or RVs—significantly increases the chance of these tiny projectiles being kicked up into your windshield.
Saltwater Degradation
While a rock chip is physical damage, the coastal environment makes it worse. Saltwater mist in the air is highly corrosive. If you get a chip and leave it exposed, salty moisture can work its way into the polyvinyl butyral (PVB) layer sandwiched between the two panes of your windshield glass. This can cause delamination, where the glass starts to separate from the plastic core, creating a cloudy, unrepairable mess.
Driving Smart
To minimize risk while enjoying the coast, maintain at least a three-second following distance. If you do catch a pebble, don't let the saltwater air settle into the crack. Give Terrific Auto Glass a call—our mobile units service coastal communities across the state, so we can fix that chip before the ocean breeze makes it worse.
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