Steps to Take After Your Car’s Windshield Suffers Damage
Picture this: You’re driving along a road while the weather is moody. Suddenly, it takes a turn for the worse, the Heavens open, and it starts hailing. You decrease your speed but the hailstones are nearly the size of golf balls — you wince as your windshield cracks from the force of the storm. You know that if your windshield is cracked then you’ll also be in need of Paintless Dent Repair in Denver, Colorado and will need to check for other damages because your car has taken a beating. But what are you meant to do about your windshield? How easy is it to fix?
A cracked windshield can pose problems for drivers and even prove dangerous if gone untreated. When car’s windshields suffer damage they can block a driver’s view of the road. There are preventative measures you can take to block the growth of cracks. This can help you avoid having to replace the entire windshield. Ultimately, you will want to take your vehicle to a professional for a more permanent fix. Here are some steps you can take to address the issue quickly in the meantime.
Buy Windshield Repair Kit
Your first step in addressing a windshield crack is to invest in a windshield repair kit. You can find them at most automotive parts stores. Inside the kit, you will find an adapter and substance that can be seeped into the crack. You want to make sure no dirt or other substances make their way into the crack. The resin will act as a sealant preventing the crack from spreading. Using a drill place a small hole through the top layer of glass so you can force the substance inside.
Super Glue as an Alternative
If you want to bypass the repair kit, you can invest in super glue as an alternative. Place the glue into the crack and spread it across its surface. Acrylic nail polish can also be utilized as a sealant. Clean out the crack before using it evenly across the outer edges. While these may work for a short period of time, you will need to seek professional help for a more permanent solution.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
When you can, it’s a good idea to park your car in the shade. The weather can put extra stress on your car’s windshield. To minimize the impact of direct heat or lots of snow, try parking in a garage or under some cover. If you have to park in the sun, consider using a windshield protector. You can also get your windows tinted at a center offering Car Window Tinting Denver (or a similar one near you). Tinting helps reduce the amount of UV rays and heat coming into your car. It’s also good for protecting your interior from fading and cracking.
Seek a Professional’s Help
After taking the necessary steps to prevent the spread of the crack temporarily, make an appointment with a car window repair company. You shouldn’t wait too long to address the issue. Your windshield can become weakened and you can cause an accident as your visibility is limited. If you get the vehicle fixed when the crack is small, it will cost you less in the long run. You can also take your car to a reliable repair shop in your vicinity. If you don’t have a regular mechanic that you can contact, you could look for one online by searching for ‘maryland auto repair shop’ or for other locations to find a service provider with good customer reviews. Moreover, leaving the problem unfixed can result in you having to get the entire windshield replaced, which can be costly. But most insurance policies cover the cost of windshield repairs, so ask your provider whether they will compensate for the damage.
Your windshield is a part of the structural framework of your vehicle and thus can completely shatter causing an accident. This is why you should have the problem addressed as soon as possible. This can save you money and time in the long run. For the short term, implement a temporary fix to keep the crack from expanding further.
