windshield repairs without leaving work

Having your vehicle's windshield replaced is vitally important if you've been dealing with a chip that has turned into a crack. A small chip, if ignored, can often expand until it's several inches in length. While this issue might not seem overly serious, some cracks can weaken the strength of the windshield, and others can impede your visibility. Additionally, you can often receive a fine if a police officer spots you driving with a cracked windshield. Don't take a chance -- call an auto glass shop when you notice a crack in your windshield and, in the meantime, take these steps to prevent the crack from expanding in size.

Don't Clean The Inside Of The Windshield

If the interior of your vehicle is due for a cleaning, make sure you don't touch the inside of the windshield. Due to the concave nature of the glass, any pressure placed on the inside of the windshield around the chip or crack can cause it to expand before your eyes. Even if you're tempted to scrub the inside of the windshield very lightly, you can cause damage with just a small amount of pressure. Skip the task of wiping down your glass until you've visited an auto glass shop.

Be Wary Of Temperature Changes

A temperature change around your windshield, especially if it's sudden, can cause your chip or crack to expand rapidly. Be vigilant about noticing the exterior temperature and then avoid drastically adjusting your vehicle's internal temperature settings. For example, if it's chilly outside, getting into your car and cranking the heat from the upper vents can cause a rapid temperature change in the windshield that causes the damage to worsen. You'd be better off allowing the vehicle's cabin to heat up slowly by adjusting your heater to a lower setting and making sure the hot air isn't coming through the dashboard vents.

Stay Off Bumpy Roads

Bumpy roads can send a sharp vibration through your vehicle that can be enough to worsen the damage on your windshield. When you need to drive somewhere, take a moment to carefully consider your route. Taking a bumpy back road as a shortcut to avoid traffic might seem enticing, but this route can be detrimental to your windshield. Likewise, be careful around potholes and construction zones with changes in the pavement height, as hitting either of these obstacles at speed can lead to windshield damage.