How To Protect A Windshield Chip Or Crack From The Summer Heat
Windscreens usually break or get damaged in one way or another. For instance, heavy hailstones can hit your windshield and cause damage. Flying debris, such as loose chippings and branches can also strike the windscreen and cause damage. There are many other ways that windscreens can get damaged. Regardless of the cause of the damage, prompt repairs, or replacement of the damaged windscreen must be done to restore the structural integrity of the vehicle.
Protect Windshield Damage From Spreading Before Your Windshield Repair Kempton PA
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- 1 Protect Windshield Damage From Spreading Before Your Windshield Repair Kempton PA
Since windshield damage can spread, especially with the intensity of the summer heat, it is vital that you protect your damaged windshield. Doing so can make a difference between paying for a windshield repair and windshield replacement. In this article, we discuss ways to prevent the damage from spreading until you can make your way into an auto glass repair shop.
What You Need To Know About Windshield Stress Cracks
Windshields have three layers. There is the outer layer, middle layer, and outer layer. When the inner and outer layers are exposed to different temperatures, one may expand or contract more than the other. As a result, a stress crack may appear. Over time, the cracks will get larger and more substantial due to the differences in temperature inside and outside the vehicle. These cracks need to be fixed as soon as possible. Alternatively, the entire windshield can be replaced.
The Effect Of Heat On Windshield Cracks And Chips
When you have a cracked or chipped windshield, you should act fast to repair or replace the auto glass. This is because the cracks and chips can get worse in the summer. When intense sunlight heats up the exterior or outer layer of the windshield, it will be forced to expand. When the sun goes down, the outer layer will contract rapidly, leaving bigger cracks and chips. The constant expansion and contraction of the windshield can make even small cracks irreparable as the cracks and chips get larger and larger with time.
How To Protect Cracked Windshields From Summer Heat
If your windscreens have small cracks and chips that have not affected the structural integrity of the windshield or compromised visibility, be sure to have them fixed. After the repairs, however, you need to take precautions to ensure the auto glass does not get damaged further. Below are steps to take to protect your windscreen:
i) Be Sure To Park In The Shade
The most effective way of protecting your windscreen from the summer heat is to always park under a shade. This can be in a basement parking lot, car shed, or under a tree. This will help to ensure your windshield does not heat up and expand. Consider installing a parking shed at your home if you do not have a garage to park in.
ii) Cool The Car Gradually
When you get into a hot car, the first reaction is to crank the AC. However, this gradual cooling will lead to further cracking because only the inner layer of the windscreen will be cooled and contract as the hot exterior continues to expand. To prevent this from happening, you should first open the windows to vent the hot air inside the car. Next, turn on the AC, but only slightly. Continue to adjust the AC gradually until the desired temperature is attained.
iii) Avoid Using Reflective Shades
Reflective shades are incredibly popular, but they can still lead to further cracking. While some shades reflect light and heat away from the windscreen, others absorb and retain heat. It is important to note that both types of shades can lead to further cracking of windshields. Therefore, you should avoid these shades until you have the cracks fixed effectively.
It is always recommended you have damaged windshields repaired as soon as possible. Cracks and chips can get worse if not treated quickly. If the damage is beyond repair, you will need to have the windshield replaced immediately. To identify the right auto glass shop for your needs, be sure to take your time to conduct the necessary research.
Call Liberty AutoGlass For All Of Your Windshield Repairs & Replacements
The best way to deal with any auto glass damage is to take immediate action. Quick repairs and replacements help ensure that you, your passengers, and other vehicles will stay safe on the roads. Consider Liberty AutoGlass if you are looking for an experienced and dependable auto glass shop. Our team can provide windshield repairs and replacements with excellent results.
We also work with all major insurance companies and can handle your claim from start to finish. This way, you don’t have to deal with the headache and the stress that comes with filing a claim.
Be sure to ask about our mobile auto glass services. By using our mobile services, you can go about your day as you normally would. We can come to you and repair or replace your auto glass, depending on your situation.
The shop is composed of certified technicians with the skills and experience to deal with any related problems. You can expect honest assessments, reasonable rates, and exceptional services. Call Liberty AutoGlass to schedule a free estimate today.
Some of the areas we service include Kempton, Lenhartsville, New Tripoli, Stony Run and these zip codes 19529, 19534, 18066, 19557 as well as all surrounding areas in Berks County, Pennsylvania.
Click here to contact us today or give us a call at (610) 377-7787 or (877) 90-GLASS if you have any questions.