You need a secure windshield to help ensure your visibility, safety and the structural integrity of your vehicle. Your windshield may be more susceptible to damage during the cold winter months, so it’s important to recognize the risk factors and take every precaution before the temperature drops.
Beware of Sudden Temperature Changes
When you walk outside to warm up your car after a night of subzero temperatures, be cautious about warming up your windshield too quickly. If a frozen windshield is hit with hot air, it can crack due to the sudden temperature change. This is even more likely if the glass already has a small chip or crack.
Turn on the car’s heating system, but don’t point the vents directly at the windshield. Instead, direct the hot air toward the passengers or the floor so the glass has the chance to warm up gradually. Also, never pour hot water on your car’s frozen glass — it can cause severe damage.
Use Proper Ice Removal Tools
Don’t use a shovel or a knife to remove ice from your car’s glass surfaces. Only use ice scrapers designed for that particular purpose. Scrape horizontally along the glass — never stab into the ice buildup in a chopping motion, or you could chip the glass underneath.
Keep Washer Fluid Tank Full
Check your windshield washer fluids regularly during the winter months, since you use it more during this time. A clean windshield is easier to see out of, and it also is easier to spot any damage that must be repaired. Also, make sure your wiper blades are equipped to smoothly brush away snow and ice. Invest in a new pair of wipers designed for winter weather before the seasons change.
Get Cracks and Chips Repaired Immediately
Get chips repaired before they turn into cracks. Cracks will only grow during cold weather. According to the Motor Industry Research Association, auto glass chips were likely to spread 80 percent of the time once the temperature dropped to 14 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. Even if the temperature remained at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, glass chips spread 60 percent of the time and progress to more serious cracks.
Don’t wait — call Glasshopper Auto Glass right now to schedule repair if you spot chips or cracks in your windshield. Offering on-site mobile service at your home, work or school, our team will immediately come to your aid when cold weather affects your windshield.
