No one wants a cracked windshield on their vehicle. Anything from a little chip to a giant crack is a nuisance that will not only cost you money to repair but also cause issues to your driving if it blocks your vision. Rochester, NY’s windshield repair team at FB Glass shares a few tips on how to handle chips and cracks and when to call for auto glass repair.

First, measure the size of the crack. If it’s less than a foot or if the chip is smaller than a quarter, you probably won’t have to replace your entire windshield. Make sure you can still see clearly as you drive, though. Contact your windshield crack repair team as soon as possible, and tell them what you have. Until you have the repair completed, protect the chip from any dirt. Dirt and debris can make the windshield repair more difficult, so place a piece of clear tape over the impact point.

While you wait for the repair, don’t let the heat build up as the sun will weaken the glass further. Try parking in garages or shady areas. In addition, don’t let the car get too cold from your AC unit. Extreme temperatures can cause more damage, and you should also refrain from slamming the doors or washing the car as both of these will crack the windshield even more.

Never ignore the problem as small cracks and chips can spread if they aren’t repaired. If it’s a larger crack, you may also suffer a traffic violation because your visibility is compromised. If the crack is more than a foot or the chip is larger than a quarter, your windshield is weakened and you will probably need a new one. Don’t drive the car as it is now a safety issue; find an auto glass repair expert, not a general mechanic. Glass experts will know how to handle your chip or crack and will provide you with the best options available.

Rochester’s FB Glass specializes in custom and commercial auto glass repair and installation services. The skilled technicians on staff handle every part of the repair process, including assisting with any insurance claims or financing. For your next windshield repair, call (585) 441-1209 or visit the website for a full list of services offered.