Windshield Cracks - 2 Things You Should Never Do Before A Replacement
Rocks and other types of debris from the road can easily fly up and crack your windshield. When this happens, you need to make arrangements for a replacement as soon as possible. A cracked windshield is not structurally sound, and this means a serious injury can occur if you get into an accident. You may need to drive for a few days before the replacement is completed though, and this means that you should make sure that the crack does not spread. There are several things you should never do if you want your windshield to remain mostly intact.
Wash Your Car
Many automotive experts indicate that you should keep your damaged windshield clean. Debris can vibrate inside cracks and force the damaged area to spread out. You may think that it is a good idea to wash your car thoroughly to make sure that dirt cannot get into cracks. Unfortunately, water can easily work its way into a crack as well, and this can cause pressure and stress much like dirt and debris. This means that you should not get your windshield wet. In fact, you should try to protect your windshield from rain as well. Also, do not use your windshield spray to clean the glass either.
If you want to protect windshield damage from the effects of dirt, debris, and water, then consider using the hose on your vacuum cleaner to remove debris. Afterwards, place a small piece of clear tape over the crack.
Blast Your Heat
Many people warm up their cars in the morning so that their vehicles are warm when they drive to work. If you do this, then you may force your windshield crack to spread. Windshields are made up of three separate layers of material. Two pieces of glass are secured together with a piece of vinyl in between. This vinyl keeps your windshield from shattering when you get into an accident. When a crack forms in your windshield, then all three glass layers are exposed across the break. Extreme hot and cold temperatures cause the layers to expand and contract and the movement forces the crack to spread.
The best way to keep your windshield damage from expanding is to gradually warm up your car in the morning. Turn your heat on low when you first start your car and wait 10 or 15 minutes until you turn the heat up. This way the glass will slowly expand and the crack will be less likely to spread. You should gradually cool your car as well if you need to use your air conditioning. Once you drive to your destination, make sure to park in the shade. The extreme heat of the sun can force cracks to expand as well.
If you have a crack in your windshield, visit an auto glass specialist like City Wide Auto Glass so that a replacement can be secured. If you decide to drive your car before the repair, then you must make sure that you do not wash your windshield or blast your heat, or the crack may expand.