If you’re a busy parent juggling appointments, school runs, and grocery shopping, you already know the importance of having a reliable car. So, imagine you’re running errands and a rock hits your windshield. What do you do next? Here’s how y’all can protect your windshield while waiting for repairs.
Cover It Up
You can protect your windshield by covering it up with a tarp or blanket when the vehicle is not in use. If y’all don’t have those available, I suggest using a large piece of cardboard to help shield it from further damage. Make sure you secure the cover with bungee cords or something similar to prevent it from flying off in high winds. Trust me, taking the time to protect your windshield now will save you a whole lot of trouble down the road.
Don’t Clean It
Another way to protect your windshield while waiting for repairs is to not clean it! I know it’s tempting to get rid of those pesky bug splatters and bird droppings, but it’s not worth it. Cleaning solutions and water can sneak into those cracks and make things even worse. But if you absolutely have to clean the windshield, use a dry cloth and avoid spraying any liquids directly on the glass.
Drive Carefully
I can’t tell y’all how often I’ve seen someone driving around with a big crack in their windshield. I get it—accidents happen, and you can’t always fix them immediately. But did you know that driving with a cracked windshield can worsen the problem?
The vibrations from driving can cause the crack to grow, so try to limit your driving as much as possible and avoid bumpy roads. If you do have to hit the road, make sure to drive cautiously. No aggressive accelerating or sudden braking, y’all!
Avoid Extreme Temperatures
An itty-bitty crack in your car’s windshield can turn into a full-on fracture with a little help from extreme temperature changes. Who knew? Apparently, it’s all about keeping things stable.
If your windshield develops a crack, the best thing you can do is park the vehicle in a garage or shaded area away from direct sunlight. This way, y’all can keep UV rays from penetrating your windshield and wreaking havoc. Not only is this helpful while awaiting repairs, but it’s also an easy maintenance tip for your auto glass.
Protecting your windshield while waiting for repairs may seem like a hassle, but it’s well worth it! Don’t risk your safety by driving with glass damage; contact a windshield technician who can help you get your car back to its ideal condition.