Sometimes, our car glass, particularly the windshield, cracks. This doesn’t mean that we’re to blame. A number of things out of our control could have gotten wrong, such as a pebble hitting the glass or a walnut falling from a tree. However, it is in our control that we get a windshield glass repair as soon as we can in order to fix the crack and keep other glass and car problems at bay. Here are some tips for when you find your car glass cracked and need to take action:
Go to a Professional Auto Glass Shop As Soon As Possible
No matter how tiny the crack is, you should never delay getting a windshield glass repair. The longer you wait, the more the crack will spread into many fissures, splitting off in different directions, and leading the glass to ultimately shatter. Plus, you really, really (this cannot be stressed enough) don’t want to be driving when the used-to-be-tiny crack on your windshield suddenly shatters into millions of pieces in your face. When you have a crack in the glass, anything can cause it to spread and break, including rain and driving over road bumps. So as soon as you see a crack, or even a chip, make a note to go to a professional auto glass shop as soon as you can. Don’t wait a week or longer. Within the next two days, you should have your windshield fixed. Though, if the crack is big, refrain from driving your car and find another method of transportation.
In the Meanwhile . . . Examine the Crack
Even if you scheduled some time to take your car to an auto shop and fix the windshield crack, it’s important that you inspect it yourself as soon as it occurs. For instance, if you’re driving to work when a pebble from the road suddenly hits the glass, you should stop when you get the chance and take a look at the situation.
How bad is the crack and where is it located on the windshield? If the damage is just a tiny chip, you’re not in a big risk, which means that you can temporarily drive your car until you go to an auto shop within the next few days.
On the other hand . . .
If the damage is a major crack that’s splitting in many directions, you should probably avoid driving and instead call a mobile windshield repair professional to come. This also holds true if the crack is obstructing the driver’s view.
Temporary Solutions (Can Help for a Day or Two)
There are, of course, temporary solutions that you can do from home, like using an auto glass repair kit. If the damage on your windshield is minimal, like a small chip, then it is safe to rely on one of these kits for a temporary repair. Yet, keep in mind that you will still need to take your car to an auto shop for a professional windshield glass repair. Nevertheless, if the glass has a big crack in it, it is really not recommended that you use an at-home kit. Many things can go askew, and if you damage the glass further, it could cause the roof of your car to collapse, since the windshield plays an important role in supporting the roof.
Future Precautions
In order to prevent cracks from ruining the windshield, it’s crucial to regularly check on the status of the glass. Knowing if there are any chips can help you repair them before they turn into cracks. Furthermore, don’t use regular sponges to clean the glass. Purchase a microfiber cloth; it won’t scratch or cause damage. Though, what’s really important toward protecting the windshield is to frequently clean the glass and windshield wipers.
Next time you find yourself dealing with a car glass damage, it is essential that you get immediate windshield glass repair. You’ll be doing what’s right in maintaining your car and keeping yourself safe when you drive.
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