Fitting Your Chores Into Your Day

Posted on: 19 May 2017

Whether you have a new or old automobile, its windows are vulnerable to cracking. Even the smallest object, such as a pebble, can create enough damage to cause a crack in the glass, so it's important to know what to watch out for. While some situations aren't avoidable, others are and paying attention can save you money in the long run. 

If a crack develops in your car's windshield, it's best to have it repaired as soon as possible, before it grows. A cracked windshield can be hazard, as it can partially obstruct your view when you're driving. In some locations, driving with a damaged windshield can lead to a traffic ticket, which will just add to the financial burden. 

In some cases you can repair your compromised windshield, but sometimes the damage is so large that you'll need to replace the glass. Chips and surface pits smaller than 1 inch in diameter can generally be repaired, for instance, but if the damage has resulted in a crack, you may need to have the glass replaced. Cracks can form and spread quickly, so it's vital to get your damaged windshield inspected by a professional as soon as possible. 

You can lessen your chances of needing an auto glass repair or replacement of your automobile's glass by following these tips: 

1. Keep the glass out of direct sunlight, especially during the hot summer months. Sunlight can cause the metal surrounding the glass to heat up and expand, resulting in cracks. If you can't store your car in a garage or in a shady spot, invest in window shields, which deflect the sunlight and heat. 

2. Don't follow closely behind a truck carrying gravel or sand. Even if you don't see it, the small pebbles and grains of sand can hit your windows and cause damage. The tiny chips and pits can then quickly form cracks. 

3. Protect your car from hail. If strong, potentially hail-forming storms are in the forecast, keep your car or truck in a covered location, such as a garage or carport. If you're driving during a hail storm, reduce your speed to lessen the force of the ice balls against the glass.

4. Avoid exposing your vehicle to drastic temperature changes. If the weather in your area is forecast to change dramatically from hot to cold or vice versa, such as during a severe storm, keep the car in a garage if possible. The quickly fluctuating temperatures can cause the glass to rapidly expand and retract, resulting in cracks.