Keeping your windshield in great shape requires some extra care and attention when you’re dealing with summer’s heat, dust, and unpredictable weather. If left unattended, even a tiny chip or smudge can turn into a bigger—and much more expensive—problem. The good news is, protecting your windshield doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Follow our actionable tips on how to keep your windshield safe this summer.
Why Your Windshield Needs Extra Care in the Summer
The summer introduces several challenges for your windshield, so a little TLC is especially important during the warmer months. Some reasons for this include:
- Intense UV rays: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can weaken your windshield over time. Also, the sun can cause discoloration that may leave your windshield looking dull and cloudy.
- Temperature fluctuations: Hot days and cool nights can stress the glass, increasing the likelihood of cracks and chips expanding.
- Flying debris: Construction areas, uncovered trucks, and driving on gravel roads may result in rocks and debris striking the glass.
- Frequent use of wipers: Summer storms or dust accumulation means you’ll likely use your windshield wipers more often. Poor-quality or worn-down wipers can leave scratches.
Understanding these risks is the first step to protecting your windshield and saving money on unnecessary repairs. However, if you do run into windshield trouble, Fusion Windshield Repair offers high-quality, affordable auto glass services.
Tips for Keeping Your Windshield Safe and Clear
By taking some proactive steps, you can help prevent damage to keep your windshield looking brand new all year long.
Park in the Shade Whenever Possible
Keeping your car out of direct sunlight protects your windshield from excessive heat. UV rays can weaken the windshield over time, increasing its vulnerability to cracks and chips. With this in mind, avoid leaving your vehicle under the blazing sun for hours, and park in shaded areas, garages, or covered parking lots instead.
If you’re short on covered or shaded parking options, invest in a quality windshield sunshade to keep your car’s interior cooler and minimize exposure to harmful UV rays.
Don’t Ignore Chips or Cracks
A small chip may not seem like a big deal, but under the summer heat, it can turn into a much larger crack. When the sun heats the exterior while AC cools the interior, the glass expands and contracts. This pressure can worsen existing cracks or chips.
If you notice any damage, contact Fusion Windshield Repair immediately. Our technicians can seal small chips in minutes, saving you the hassle and higher costs of a full windshield replacement down the road.
Use the Right Cleaning Products
A clean windshield is safer and easier to maintain, plus regular cleaning prevents dust, bugs, and streaks from obstructing your view. However, avoid using household glass cleaners containing ammonia since these can damage your windshield’s protective coating.
Instead, use a car-safe glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth. Spray the cleaner lightly, and wipe in circular motions to avoid streaks. Cleaning the inside of your windshield is just as important, so take some time to keep that surface crystal clear too.
Replace Wiper Blades Regularly
Worn or damaged windshield wipers are a common culprit for scratches. Check your wiper blades frequently and look for cracks, stiffness, or frayed edges. Replace them every six to twelve months or sooner if you notice a decrease in performance.
Consider using silicone wiper blades because they’re more durable in the heat and less likely to dry out compared to traditional rubber blades. Also, make sure to top off your windshield washer fluid, as it works with your wipers to keep the glass dirt-free.
Drive Cautiously in Construction Zones
Summer often means more road construction, and these zones are notorious for loose gravel and debris flying toward windshields. When driving through or near construction areas, slow down and maintain a safe distance from trucks or other vehicles that are more likely to kick up rocks or other small objects.
Protect Against Sudden Temperature Changes
If your windshield already has minor chips or cracks, rapid temperature shifts can cause additional stress on the glass. For example, blasting the air conditioner on a scorching summer day might cause the glass to cool too quickly, creating additional stress.
To prevent this, avoid setting your AC to the lowest temperature settings immediately. Instead, gradually cool down the interior of your car to minimize the risk of pressure-related damage to your windshield.
Invest in Windshield Protection Films
Windshield protection films provide an added layer of defense against debris, scratches, and harmful UV rays. These films are thin, transparent sheets applied to the surface of your windshield to absorb impacts and prevent minor damage from escalating.
Additionally, some high-quality films can also improve heat rejection to cool your car’s interior.
Be Mindful of Weather Conditions
While the summer is typically associated with sunshine, sudden thunderstorms are common in many areas. Flying branches and hailstones during storms can strike your windshield, causing chips or cracks.
To avoid this, try to park indoors or use a weatherproof car cover if storms are in the forecast. If you must drive during a storm, reduce your speed, and stay cautious of debris or poor visibility that could cause damage to your windshield.
Regularly Inspect Your Windshield
Conduct regular checks for any potential issues by walking around your car and closely inspecting the glass under good lighting. Look for chips, cracks, or signs of discoloration. Early detection can prevent small problems from becoming costly repairs.
Consider Professional Maintenance
While it’s possible to perform some windshield maintenance tasks at home, sometimes you need professional help.
The trained professionals at Fusion Windshield Repair can provide expert inspections or repairs, and they have the expertise to detect weaknesses you may not notice and give you the best solutions for keeping your windshield in top condition.
Why Keeping Your Windshield Safe Matters
Beyond aesthetics, a well-maintained windshield provides structural support to your vehicle, especially during accidents. A compromised windshield can shatter more easily, risking the safety of both you and your passengers.
Additionally, visibility is key to safe driving—chips, cracks, and smudges can block your view and distract you while on the road. By keeping your windshield clean and damage-free, you can actively reduce the chance of getting into an accident.
Don’t Overlook Windshield Care This Summer
Protecting your windshield is one of the simplest ways to enhance your driving experience and safety. By following these tips on how to keep your windshield safe this summer, you’ll save money on repairs while guaranteeing your windshield remains crystal clear for all your summer adventures.
If you notice any chips or cracks, don’t wait for them to get worse. Reach out to Fusion Windshield Repair to address the issue. A little prevention goes a long way in keeping your windshield safe.
Recent Comments