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Windshields play a pivotal role in ensuring one’s safety on the road. Not only does it provide a clear view of the road ahead but it also protects the vehicle’s occupants from road debris, such as dust and rocks, as well as weather-related dangers like rain, wind, and hail. Moreover, a windshield adds to the structural support of the car’s cabin, protecting the driver and passengers from front-end collisions or rollovers.
That said, it’s essential to keep your car’s windshield in good shape so that it serves you longer. Even though it’s made from a durable material, it can experience extensive wear and tear, especially when they’re exposed to extreme weather conditions. The freezing temperatures of winter or the intense heat of summer can cause significant damage to your windshield, especially if you don’t take the necessary precautions to protect it.
Thankfully, there are a few things you can do to ensure that your windshield can stand up to severe weather conditions. Let’s take a look at some of them.
Inspect the Condition of Your Windshield Regularly
Chips or cracks on your windshield can develop over time due to road debris, temperature fluctuations, or even regular wear and tear. While these imperfections may seem minor at first, they can quickly become larger problems when exposed to harsh elements. In freezing temperatures, moisture can settle into small cracks and expand when frozen, making the damage worse. During extreme heat, the rise in temperature can cause existing cracks to spread as the glass expands.
Therefore, inspecting your windshield frequently can help you identify any issues early on and allow you to address them before their condition worsens. This simple preventive measure ensures that your windshield remains in good condition, providing the visibility and structural integrity you need for safe driving.
A good practice to uphold is to check your windshield weekly, especially if you’ve taken your car out on long drives or have driven in inclement weather throughout the week. While examining your windshield, pay close attention to its edges, as these are where damage often begins. Additionally, cleaning the windshield regularly can help improve its visibility, as well as help you spot any hidden cracks or chips. If you're unsure whether a crack is developing, inspecting the windshield under bright light or with a flashlight at night can reveal any subtle damage.
Have Your Windshield Repaired or Replaced ASAP
If you notice any damage during your windshield inspections, it’s crucial to have it professionally repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Doing so not only ensures your safety but also saves you money in the long run. Even though small chips can be easily repaired, letting the pros handle it reduces the risk of additional damage.
If you happen to live in California, experts, like those that offer quality auto glass repair in Ontario CA, have the skills and experience to repair all kinds of windshield damage. This also means that you can trust them to take care of replacing your old or severely damaged windshield, so you can rest assured that your vehicle is safe to drive in no time.
Use Proper Defrosting Techniques
Cold weather can cause your windshield to develop frost, and in this situation, you might be tempted to blast hot air or power hot water directly on it to melt the ice. However, it’s advisable not to follow any of these approaches, as these are improper ways of defrosting your windshield. Defrosting your windshield incorrectly is one of the biggest threats to your windshield, as the sudden change in temperature can create stress in the glass, causing it to crack.
To prevent these issues, it’s important to use proper defrosting techniques that gradually warm the glass and avoid extreme temperature shocks. The best way to do this is to turn on your car’s defroster at a low setting to allow the windshield to warm up slowly. As the car’s interior heats up, you can gradually increase the defroster’s temperature to help melt the ice on the windshield. If you need to remove ice, use a scraper or de-icing spray rather than hot water. Another option is to park your car in the sun. This is a natural way to defrost your windshield without the risk of sudden temperature changes.
Park in a Garage or Covered Area
Exposure to the elements can cause significant wear and tear on your windshield over time. For instance, parking outside when it’s hot or leaving your car under direct sunlight can cause the glass to expand, which can lead to cracks if done over an extended period of time. Similarly, parking outside during heavy rain or snow can also expose your windshield to potential impact damage or freezing, both of which can lead to costly repairs.
Thus, it’s in your best interest to park your car in a garage or an insulated area to shield your vehicle—and its windshield—from harsh weather conditions. If a garage is unavailable, consider using a car cover or parking under a carport or other protective structure. This simple habit can extend the life of your windshield and prevent small issues from turning into major problems.
Avoid Driving in Severe Weather as Much as Possible
One of the best ways to protect your windshield from extreme weather damage is to avoid driving in severe conditions whenever possible. Harsh weather, such as hailstorms, heavy snow, or intense winds, can expose your windshield to serious risks. Hail, in particular, can shatter or chip your windshield in seconds while strong winds can blow debris and rocks directly into your path, causing immediate damage. By staying off the road during severe weather, you significantly reduce the chances of encountering these hazardous situations.
Protecting your windshield during extreme weather is essential for maintaining both safety and the longevity of your vehicle. With these simple yet effective practices, you can keep your windshield in top condition, no matter the weather, and enjoy safer driving year-round.