Extreme temperatures of any kind can affect the integrity of your windshield. Now, with summer getting underway, owners should be aware of the ravages that heat may cause, especially if you leave your car parked outside for extended periods. Here’s what you need to do to protect your auto glass when it’s hot outside.

How Heat Impacts Glass

While the heat outside is indirectly responsible for some types of windshield damage, it’s the rapid change in temperature that does the most harm. On a hot day, drivers are likely to turn on their air conditioners right away to cool down the compact space. The natural inclination of a windshield is to expand in the heat and contract in the cold. When you turn on the air conditioner, the glass swiftly transitions from its expansion process to contraction.

This puts the material under enormous stress, leaving it more fragile and susceptible to breakage. As a result, cracks might develop quickly if any force is exerted upon the surface. And if it already has some minimal damage, such as a small hairline crack or a tiny hole, it’s more likely to spread and cause significant failure due to the weakened integrity of the glass.

How to Prevent Problems

Drivers can prevent this problem by easing cool air through the car’s cabin slowly. Aim the vents south, away from the windshield, to prevent the surface from cooling down too fast. You might even run the air conditioner on the floor setting or in the back of the car first to slowly acclimate the glass to the new, lower temperature.

You should also take care to handle the car delicately in the heat. Avoid slamming the doors, which could aggravate stressed glass and cause it to shatter. Make every effort to park in the shade or in a garage if possible, and don’t delay in contacting a car glass repair professional if there’s any existing damage to your windshield. It’s always best to treat this problem right away, as even small cracks could lead to serious damage over time.

Are you concerned about a crack in your windshield? Trust the professionals at Auto Glass Experts to handle the job swiftly and efficiently. Based in Hastings, NE, the company offers over 40 years of industry experience handling everything from rock chip repairs to complete replacements. Visit them online for details or call the family-owned business at (402) 463-0025 to arrange a free estimate.