Windshield Cares During Summertime
Windshield and extreme temperature changes
It’s known that glass exposed to high temperatures expands slightly. During the winter months, glass contracts or becomes slightly smaller. Under heat, the glass can shatter from the pressure of expanding or contracting too quickly, (when it cools off too fast). If your windshield has even a small chip has a higher risk of shattering under extreme temperature changes.
Many drivers are aware of this risk. If it’s your concern as well, this article is for you!
Easy tips to take care of your windshield during summertime
First thing you may want to do when you’re driving your car and it’s hot is to turn the air conditioning on to the coolest. Instead of doing that, roll down the windows, maintain the doors open and let some fresh air flow. Once you feel the temperature lower a bit inside the car, you can turn the air conditioning on.
It’s necessary to let the glass windshield acclimate to the temperature changes. Start the air conditioning on the low setting, then you can gradually set it up to the sweet coolest option.
Wipers are crucial to keep your windshield clear, not just in the rainy season, but also in summertime. If you have debris or dust in your windshield, don’t use your wipers until you have checked that the blades are in good condition. Windshield wiper blades may melt into windshield glass in high summer temperatures. A good product to use is windshield-wiper fluid cycles that will keep the blades from getting too attached to the glass.
It may sound obvious but always good to mention, park your car in safety shades (make sure there is no debris, fruits or anything that can fall on your windshield).
Always avoid slamming the doors. If you have a very small chip, it will get bigger.
When washing your car during summertime, it may seem like a good idea to do it when the car is hot, but it isn’t. You have to wait until your car cools off to wash it, remember that fast temperature changes can increase the risk of damage to your auto glass.
Final recomendations
Another good idea for some drivers is to have a reflective sun shade inside the car, but you have to be careful. Some dashboard sun shades may increase the windshield temperature, making your glass more likely to get a chip or crack.
Washing the car early in the mornings or late afternoons is a good option if you don’t have a shady area where you can do it during the daytime.
Don’t wait to take care of your windshield if you have any chip or crack, contact us for more information.