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Driving with a broken windshield is illegal in most states, and it can be dangerous. The windscreen protects you from the elements when driving and helps to prevent accidents by increasing visibility.
If your car has suffered damage to its glass, you may be stressed out trying to figure out what to do next. Here are 10 steps you can take to prevent further damage while waiting for auto glass repairs:
1. Park in a safe location
If your windshield is cracked or chipped, find a safe place to park your car. Avoid parking under trees or near construction sites where debris could fall and cause more damage. This is extremely important if the damage is in your driver’s line of sight and you want to prevent it from spreading across the glass.
2. Tape up the crack or chip
If the damage is small, you can temporarily fix it using tape. This will help to keep the glass from shattering and will buy you some time until you can get the car repaired. However, if the damage is large, do not try to tape it up as this could make the problem worse.
3. Cover the crack or chip with a clear adhesive
Another temporary fix is to cover the damaged area with a clear adhesive. This will help to keep dirt and debris out of the crack or chip and will also prevent it from spreading. You can find these adhesives at most auto parts stores. While some drivers choose this method, you should be extremely cautious with it as it can be difficult to remove the adhesive once it’s been applied.
4. Use a plastic bag
Another tip that you should err on the side of caution with is using a plastic bag. Covering the damaged area with a clear plastic bag will help to keep moisture out. This is a good method to use if it’s raining or snowing outside. However, you should never use this method if the car is in direct sunlight, as the heat can cause the plastic to melt and damage the glass even more.
5. Place a piece of cloth over the crack or chip
If you don’t have any tape, adhesive, or a plastic bag, you can place a piece of cloth over the damaged area. This will help to keep it clean and free from moisture.
6. Use a sunshade
If you are driving long distances, using a sunshade can be helpful in preventing further damage to your windshield. This is because it will help to keep the car cool and will stop the sun from shining directly on the cracked or chipped area.
7. Keep an eye on the crack or chip
As you are waiting for repairs, it’s important to keep an eye on the damage. This is because if it starts to spread, you may need to have the windshield replaced. If you notice any changes, be sure to take photos so you can show them to your auto glass repair company.
8. Don’t wash your car
If possible, avoid washing your car until the repairs have been made. This is because water can cause the crack or chip to spread. If you must wash your car, be sure to use a soft cloth and avoid using any pressure on the damaged area.
9. Avoid driving long distances
Driving long distances with a cracked or chipped windshield can cause the damage to spread. This is because the glass can start to vibrate as you drive, and this will cause the crack or chip to grow.
10. Get your car repaired as soon as possible
The best way to prevent further damage to your windshield is to get it repaired as soon as possible. This is because most auto glass repair companies can fix small cracks and chips within a few hours. If you wait too long, the damage may become too severe, and the windshield may need to be replaced.
The most common causes of auto glass damage are:
1. Road debris – Stones, rocks, and other objects that are kicked up by cars in front of you can cause damage to your windshield.
2. Flying insects – Bugs and other insects can cause cracks and chips in your windshield.
3. Tree sap and bird droppings – Sap from trees and bird droppings can cause permanent damage to your windshield.
4. Poor driving habits – Slamming on the brakes, driving over potholes, and weaving in and out of traffic can all cause damage to your windshield.
5. Accidents – If you are involved in an accident, there is a good chance that your car’s windshield will be damaged.
When selecting an auto glass repair company, it’s important to keep the following in mind:
1. Make sure the company is licensed and insured
2. Ask for references
3. Get quotes from multiple companies
4. Check the company’s online reviews
5. Ask about the company’s warranty
6. Make sure the company uses OEM or original equipment manufacturer parts
7. Ask about the company’s experience with your type of car
8. Make sure the company has a mobile service
Auto glass repair is a crucial part of car maintenance. A cracked or chipped windshield can not only be an eyesore but can also be dangerous. It’s important to take steps to prevent further damage while waiting for repairs.
Be Sure to Schedule Auto Glass Repairs Promptly
Auto glass damage is never convenient. A cracked windshield can impede your vision while driving and make your car look unsightly. But beyond aesthetics, auto glass damage can also be dangerous. If the crack or chip is in your line of sight, it can obstruct your view of the road and lead to an accident. Even if the damage is not in your line of sight, it can still weaken the structural integrity of the glass and cause it to shatter in the event of a collision.
For these reasons, it’s important to schedule auto glass repairs as soon as possible after the damage occurs. The longer you wait, the greater the chance that the damage will spread or become more severe! Call us today to schedule a repair!