Some people do not realize that the summer heat can negatively impact your windshield just as much as the cold winters can. There are certain factors you want to remember to ensure that you are safely maintaining your windshield during the hot summer. Wizard Auto Glass gives you some dos and don’t for your windshield during the Summer. If you end up needing a windshield repair in Brampton, Wizard Auto Glass is the place the go!
DOS
- Park in the shade when you can! By parking in the shade, your windshield won’t be as directly exposed to the sunlight. The sunlight can cause your windshield to expand because of the heat, making it vulnerable to damage. If you absolutely must park in the sun, consider rolling down the windows a little so heat doesn’t build up inside your car.
- Careful when washing a windshield with existing nicks. If there’s already a crack on the windshield, washing it can actually contaminate the existing chips making it harder to repair.
- Wash your vehicle as the sun is setting. It will be cooler, so it’ll be much safer to wash your vehicle. Your windshield will not be as hot, which reduces any chance of your windshield cracking or making cracks that are already there bigger.
- Get repairs done right away! If you notice any minor damage on your windshield, get it repaired right away! It’s better to get it fixed as soon as possible to reduce the chance of damage spreading. If you wait and the damage does get worse, the repair cost would be more expensive and might even require a full replacement. A very temporary fix that you can use until you can get a professional repair is to place transparent packing tape on the surface of the crack to keep it clean. It is still advised that you get the windshield repaired as soon as possible to prevent it from shattering or even worse, getting a ticket for a having a shattered windshield.
DON’TS
- Avoid using sun shades, in particular the reflective shades placed under the windshield. Sun shades reflect the heat through the windshield which ends up increasing the windshields’ temperature. This can damage your windshield because during the summer, your windshield is exposed to the heat from the outer layers and the cold from the inner layer where you are likely blasting your A/C. Glass expands and contracts according to the temperature. As the two contrasting temperatures meet and the windshield experiences a sudden temperature change, it may result in a crack.
- Do not wash your vehicle in the direct sunlight, or when the windshield is still hot. As cold water comes in contact with a hot windshield, the auto glass contracts and expands; this may increase the chances of a crack forming.
- Do not slam doors, hoods or trunks. Your windshield is more sensitive because of the heat, the vibration from slamming doors and trunks can result in any existing damage spreading.