4 Tips to Help You Protect Your Windshield
You cannot prevent all damage to your windshield. A rock can fly out of nowhere and strike your windshield or a car accident can leave your windshield significantly damaged. However, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of damage to your windshield, thus decreasing the likelihood that you would need windshield replacement. Here are four tips to help you protect your windshield.
Keep Your Distance From Large Trucks Carrying Debris
The first tip to help protect your windshield from damage is to keep your distance when you see large trucks that are carrying debris. This is especially important if you see debris flying off of the trucks. Many trucks have warning signs that say that other drivers should stay back 200 to 300 feet. This is for good reason. They are trying to protect your car from the debris, such as rocks and gravel, that may fly off their truck. Heed their warning.
Be Cautious Where You Park
Another tip to help protect your windshield is to be cautious about where you are parking. If it is a windy day and you see a branch that looks unstable, it doesn't make sense to park under it. Likewise, avoid parking under trees that have falling debris, such as acorns. Unstable limbs and debris can both damage your windshield, possibly leading to a windshield replacement.
Change Your Windshield Wipers as Needed
One of the lesser known ways to protect your windshield is to change your windshield wipers when needed. If the rubber has worn off of your windshield, the metal or plastic arm can dig into your windshield, scratching it. Removing scratches from your windshield glass is a time-consuming and challenging process, and may not be worth the cost. In many cases, replacing the windshield is the best option. Replacing your windshield wipers as needed can prevent this problem.
Never Pour Hot Water Over Icy Windshields
Lastly, never pour hot water over your icy windshield to help it defrost. The hot water can cause the cold windshield to contract, causing it to crack or break. This will cause you to need a windshield replacement.
These four tips can decrease the odds of your windshield becoming damaged. But you cannot prevent all damage to your windshield. If your windshield has a large crack or chip, you may need to be repaired or replaced. Contact a windshield replacement service today to learn what options are available for your windshield and to get the damage fixed as quickly as possible.