Can I Put Off Windshield Chip Repair in Warm Weather?

Many windshield chips and cracks seem minor, which is why so many of us tend to postpone windshield chip repair or even discount it completely. The truth is, chips and cracks should be repaired ASAP, if only to avoid having to make major repairs down the line.

If a chip or crack hinders a driver’s field of vision, proper repairs should be made. More than that, chips and cracks tend to spread, and that could lead to complete windshield replacement. With cracked windshield repair, that kind of major expense could be prevented.

Not surprisingly, winter weather and summer weather can affect an already chipped windshield. Extreme winter conditions are the most damaging for a chipped windshield, although very warm weather can also be problematic. The key is to address damages early on.

How Warm Weather Affects Windshields & Auto Glass 

In winter, cold air causes auto glass to contract, while in summer the heat causes auto glass to expand. In the intense, direct sunlight, this affect is magnified and the expansion affect can be considerable. A good way to avoid this dynamic is to find parking in the shade during summer.

Hot summer weather also causes a vehicle’s cabin air to expand, therefore adding air pressure on the windows. With a window chip or crack, the cabin air pushes against the window glass with pressure that can cause the damage to spread. In extreme cases, the entire window may crack.

Driving with a damaged windshield in summer can also cause “sun dazzle”. This is where bright shots of sunlight bounce off a chip or crack and reflect into the driver’s eyes. This isn’t the safest way to drive, and just one more reason why windshield chip repair should be considered ASAP.

Some Handy Tips if You Can't Get Repairs Done Right Away

If windshield chip repair isn’t immediately possible, there are some precautionary measures that can be taken throughout the summer months. To begin with, your vehicle should be parked in the garage to keep the window glass cool. Outside, it’s far better to find a parking spot in the shade.

In the heat of summer, it’s also a good idea to keep one window slightly open, allowing the warm cabin air to escape, and thus reducing air pressure on the windshield. Many drivers find that a sun reflector is effective in keeping heat out of the cabin (also keeps the interior from cooler).

Let’s face it – there’s no substitute for professional windshield repairs. However, there are some possible stopgaps to prevent a chip or crack from getting worse. For example, there are retail chip-repair kits that might do the job, although none offer long-term results or guarantees.

General Auto Glass offers Professional Repairs for Windshield Chips & Cracks

If you require any type of cracked windshield repair, General Auto Glass services both domestic and foreign vehicles. We offer windshield repairs and replacement in Markham, Stouffville, and North York, with technicians who are trained and certified.

With those smaller cracks or chips, we do our best to repair and restore the damage, with special techniques that prevent spreading but still reinforce the windshield glass. Whatever the scope of damage, our workmanship is always fully guaranteed.

Find out more by calling 905-604-0433 or visiting our website at www.generalautoglass.ca .