And just like that, summer is upon us. The temperatures are rising and it’s time to prepare for warm weather activities like BBQs, picnics, days at the lake or by the beach, summer road trips, and pool parties. While your focus is on this type of fun stuff (as it should be), we’re sure the last thing on your mind is how the weather can affect your car’s windshield – and yes, it can.
Extreme hot (and cold) weather can put a lot of stress on your car’s windshield and could eventually cause it to crack. Who wants to deal with that? While we can’t control the weather or temperature changes, we can help you take the appropriate steps to avoid windshield damage as a result of extreme weather.
Here are some tips to follow during the hot summer months:
- What’s the first thing you do when you get into a hot car? Crank up the air conditioner, right? We know it’s miserable sitting in a sweltering car, but rapidly cooling your car’s interior can be very stressful on auto glass and could even cause it to crack. We recommend cooling your car slowly, and putting the AC on low to start. Angle the vents downward, away from the windshield (and your other windows). These small steps can make a huge difference in extending the life of your windshield.
- Summer means travel, which means more cars on the road, leading to more broken windshields and auto glass. If you’re driving down the highway near semi-trucks, construction vehicles, and the like, keep your distance. These large vehicles often kick up pebbles and rocks sending them flying. These flying rocks (and other debris) chip your car’s paint and could chip your windshield. While it may not seem like much at the moment, even a small chip should be repaired as soon as possible, as it will quickly spread – temperature changes can escalate these issues. By addressing the problem immediately when it’s still a chip, you’ll save yourself from having to do a full windshield replacement.
- In the winter, the same tips apply because the cold temperatures outside can also impact your windshield and auto glass. Don’t blast the heat inside the car too quickly, as the sudden change in temperature can cause damage to your windshield. And be sure to address any chips in your windshield right away before they spread and a crack develops.
At Glass America, we think it’s important for all of our customers to understand the types of windshield damage that is fixable and the damage that requires a complete windshield replacement. If you’re not sure, call us today and we’ll help you figure out what you need so you can get back on the road safely this summer.