Keep reading to learn more about the effect that intense summer heat waves can have on your windshield, and some tips on how to protect it on the hottest days of the year.
Why Temperature Matters
Your car’s windows are built to withstand a variety of weather conditions like rain, snow, sleet, high winds and high temperatures. But even the most well-made auto glass is vulnerable to chips, holes and cracks--especially when weather conditions are extreme. If you’re like most people, you may think the biggest threats your windshield faces are pebbles and rocks. While a pebble can certainly do some serious damage at high speeds, it’s the temperature inside your cabin compared to the temperature outside that can put your window at the greatest risk of becoming damaged.
Windshields are designed to expand in high temperatures and contract in cooler temperatures, but when the temperature changes suddenly this process is accelerated, which can lead to cracking. Extreme changes in temperature can also cause pre-existing cracks or holes to spread much more rapidly.
If your car is sitting outside on a hot summer day, the interior of your car will heat up, and your windshield will absorb some of that heat. By turning on the air conditioner to full blast, you’ll cause a rapid change in temperature inside your car, compared to the temperature outside. This quick change in temperature can be a shock to your windshield’s internal safety layer—which is typically made of plastic.
The reverse is also true in winter. Your auto glass will contract slightly in freezing temperatures, and then expand when you turn the heat up to warm the interior. So, if your car’s heater takes a while to heat up, that may actually be a good thing for your windshield.
Tips to Prevent Summer Windshield Damage
Avoid sudden temperature changes whenever possible—turn the air conditioning on gradually to give your windshield a chance to adjust to the change in temperature.
Don’t slam your car doors—your window glass could shatter or crack if you do.
Park in the shade—keep the temperature in your car lower by parking in the shade, or indoors, whenever possible.
Repair rock chips immediately—waiting too long to repair minor cracks and chips could result in even worse damage or even a full windshield replacement.
If you’d like more information about windshield crack repair, or general auto glass repair or replacement, come to All-West Glass without delay. With 19 convenient locations throughout Western and Northern Canada, All-West Glass is your source for automotive, residential and commercial auto glass repair. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to find the location nearest you.