Finding that you have a scratched, broken, graffitied, or cracked windshield can easily cause a lot of stress. Although an auto glass shop can always provide windshield repair or replacement services, it's understandable to prefer preventing such a problem altogether. Fortunately, you can reduce the odds that it'll happen by following professional advice.

How to Prevent Windshield Vandalism

1. Stay Close to Home

If you have a garage, leave your car inside it whenever you don't need it, and don't forget to lock the door. Otherwise, park your vehicle as close to your home as possible, whether that's in your driveway, by the curb, or in the nearest available parking space in the lot. Also, do your best to keep your car in well-lit areas, as most vandals won't risk damaging your car if they could easily be seen.

2. Use Cameras

If you park your car right outside your home, install security cameras on the exterior walls nearby. With any luck, the chances of being seen and recorded will be enough to deter vandals from leaving you with a cracked windshield. However, if they still decide to damage your car, you'll have evidence to present when you file a police report, increasing the likelihood that they'll be caught. You can also put a camera on your dashboard or rearview mirror and program it to record even when you're not driving.

3. Don’t Leave Valuables Out

Some vandals will only cause damage if they're trying to get inside to steal valuable items. If you need to take such belongings with you on an outing, remember to bring them back inside when you get home. If they have to stay in the vehicle, hide or lock them securely in the glove box, boot, trunk, or anywhere else they can't be seen from the car windows.

4. Get a Security System

Have a car alarm installed in your vehicle if the manufacturer didn't already include one. The standard noisy alarm will draw attention to vandals, which will hopefully chase them away. Additionally, even more sophisticated options are available, including real-time communication with your smartphone if someone tries to break in.

Although there’s no completely foolproof way to prevent a cracked windshield due to vandalism, Badger Glass is always available to fix or replace it. Based in Anchorage, AK, their expertise in auto glass guarantees that either one of their two locations can provide same-day services for whatever your windows need. Their certified technicians pride themselves on using only the best materials and up-to-date techniques to ensure your satisfaction. For more information, call them today at (907) 522-3927 or message them online.