The Importance Of Working With The Right Mechanic

The risk of windshield damage increases when the weather gets too hot or too cold. As you know, driving with a damaged windshield is dangerous not only due to the effect of the damage on visibility, but also due to the decreased protection a damaged windshield offers during a crash. Here are some of the ways to reduce the risk of weather-related windshield damage:

Know When and How to Use the Heating System

In most cases of temperature-related windshield damage, the damage doesn't occur because of the temperature per se, but because of an abrupt temperature change. For example, a freezing windshield will rapidly expand if it's exposed to a sudden high temperature, which increases the risk of cracking.

This is why you shouldn't turn up the heating system suddenly when you get into the car on a cold day. Rather, you should ease the car into the heat to give the windshield time to adapt to the high temperatures. It's even better to aim the heaters towards the floor so that the warmth gets time to heat up the car gently.

Park in the Shade

During the hot season, the car inevitably heats up, unless it's kept in a temperature-controlled storage. That's why you shouldn't do anything that heats up the car further, like parking in direct sunlight for extended periods. Ensure your car is always parked in the shade so that it doesn't get heated too much or experience extreme temperature change.

Don't Slam Car Doors and Windows

As previously mentioned, temperature changes stress your auto glass and make it more likely to crack. Therefore, you shouldn't engage in activities that increase the risk of glass cracking. For example, you should not bang the doors or windows upon exiting or entering the car because the vibrations may shatter the glass.

Be Gentle with Ice Removal

Snow accumulation on the windshield not only blocks your view, but it also intensifies the effect of temperature changes on the glass. That is why you need to remove the snow as soon as possible, even if you don't intend on driving soon. However, the manner of the removal must be gentle so as not to scratch or crack the glass. Ideally, you should use a purpose-made ice scraper, and move it gently across the glass.

Hopefully, the tips above will keep your windshield safe and intact irrespective of the weather. If your windshield does get damaged, however, consult your auto glass mechanic ASAP to see whether a repair is possible or a replacement is necessary.

For more information, talk to companies like Capital Collision Center Inc.