It can be aggravating to discover that your windshield has been damaged. The problem can pose a significant safety threat, and it also takes away from the aesthetic appeal of your vehicle. Fortunately, it’s easy to handle the issue when you work with an auto glass expert who has experience repairing cracked windshields. Here’s what you need to know.

How to Handle a Cracked Windshield

Do:

Inspect it before driving.

Take a good look at the state of the windshield before you get behind the wheel. If the damage interferes the slightest bit with your line of vision, it’s not a good idea to drive. Even if the likelihood is slim, there’s a chance that the crack could worsen, creating a hazardous situation when you’re on the road.

Add a layer of protection.

Auto glass repairs are easiest when the crack is fresh. But if you need to drive for a while before it’s fixed, apply a layer of clear tape over the crack’s immediate impact point to keep dirt and debris from working their way into the opening. This will make it easier for your technician to fix it.

Avoid sunny parking spots.

If possible, park your vehicle in a shaded area, like a garage. Exposure to extreme heat can cause the crack to expand. If the opening becomes too large to repair, you’ll need to schedule a complete windshield replacement instead.

Don’t:

Avoid dealing with it.

Even if the crack or chip doesn’t look too menacing at a glance, it can very easily develop into something more problematic over time. Exposure to heat or a jolting car movement can cause the opening to widen.

Try to fix it yourself.

While some people may feel confident in their abilities to repair their own windshields, it’s always best to leave this to the professionals. They take into account the condition and location of the crack, as well as the probability that a repair would be enough to prevent the problem from recurring. Advanced technologies make it easy to repair even substantial auto glass cracks, but the work should only be performed by an experienced technician using the appropriate equipment.

Be aggressive with your car.

In that spirit, avoid being too volatile if you do have to drive. Make turns as gently as possible, and avoid slamming the trunk or doors shut to prevent unnecessary jostling. This will minimize the strain that could otherwise cause a windshield crack to spread.

Don’t let a cracked windshield cause distress. Trust in the team at MO-Ark Glass in West Plains, MO, to provide speedy, experienced service. The auto glass professionals can handle everything from a minimal chip to a complete windshield replacement. They also perform residential work, and are happy to take a look at your windows and mirrors if they need some attention. Visit their website for more details, or call them at (417) 257-2040 to get started.