Repeat Windshield Damage? There Is a Reason Why
Did you recently have your auto glass repaired only to discover that the glass is damaged again? If so, it might not be a coincidence. While some uncontrollable circumstances can lead to auto glass damage, there are plenty of practices that can also increase the risk of this damage. If a damaged windshield is becoming your norm, learn about some of the things that could be happening.
1. Makeshift Repairs
The infomercials and online tutorials make the process of repairing a windshield look so easy, but the reality is that the process is only easy when you know what you are doing. Makeshift or non-skilled repairs are often a reason for repeat damage.
For example, the size, location, and shape of a crack can often depict how it has to be repaired. The number of chips or cracks is equally important. Generally, only a professional knows how to identify what needs to be done, so DIY repairs are often temporary because they are not accurate.
2. Driving Habits
How you drive can predict just how at-risk you are for repeat damage to your windshield. Take someone who often takes a gravel road as a shortcut to their house each day, for instance. The cost for this shortened commute is tiny pieces of gravel slamming into the windshield.
A few pieces of gravel here and there might not cause an issue, but when the auto glass is exposed to this sort of driving condition routinely, it will eventually succumb to the impact from the gravel and crack again. Examine your driving habits to see if you are driving in any areas that might elevate your need for repeat repairs to your auto glass.
3. Sun Exposure
You cannot always keep your vehicle out of the sun, but if you do not at least make an effort to try to limit the impact sun exposure has on the auto glass, you should expect repeat damage. Sun exposure causes the metal that supports the windshield to heat rapidly, and as a result, it also causes the edges of the glass to do the same.
The problem is that the rate at which the perimeter of the glass heats is much faster than the rate at which the center of the glass does. The result of this imbalance is often cracking. Always make an effort to park your vehicle in a covered area or at the very least invest in a windshield protector.
Remember, it is always a good idea to let a trusted professional perform auto glass repairs to your vehicle.