The only way to stop an auto glass crack from spreading long-term is to get Houston windshield repair.
If you have a chip or crack in your windshield, you need Houston windshield repair as soon as possible. A damaged windshield is weaker than undamaged windshields and even small damages can spread over time. Of course, we understand that even with mobile windshield repair solutions, you may not be able to immediately schedule auto glass repairs. If you need to buy a few hours or a day or two, there are a few things you can do to help prevent windshield cracks from spreading. Let’s discuss why it’s important to get windshield repairs and some things you can do to keep your windshield in good condition until you can get auto glass repairs.
Why Get Houston Windshield Repair as Soon as Possible?
As a car owner, you likely know that some damages require immediate attention while others can wait a while. You might not realize, but damaged windshields are one of those repairs you need to take care of quickly. Generally, it’s best to schedule repairs as soon as you notice the damage. There are many reasons to get windshield repair as soon as you possibly can, including safety, preventing the damage from growing, and avoiding the need for a replacement windshield.
Houston Windshield Repair Improves Safety for Damaged Windshields
Your auto glass in Houston is necessary for safety. Chips and cracks affect the strength of your windshield. This can make the risk of your windshield shattering higher, especially during an accident. Also, in many cases the air bags press against the windshield for proper deployment. Weak, damaged windshields can increase many safety risks for you and your passengers, so it’s best to get them repaired straight away.
Windshield Chips and Cracks Can Spread
Another reason to get Houston windshield repair as soon as you can is to help catch damages before they spread. Windshield chips and cracks tend to get larger and spread further through the glass. This means the windshield gets weaker and weaker as damages spread. In many cases it also means repairs become more complex and expensive. Sometimes you may even end up paying to replace your whole windshield.
Repair Helps You Avoid the Costs of Windshield Replacement in Houston
If damages get too large, repairs simply aren’t an option. Generally, if cracks are shorter than a dollar bill, an auto technician can repair the windshield. Repairs often cost less and take less time than complete windshield replacement in Houston. Therefore, most people prefer repairs over replacement. However, if you don’t get windshield repairs soon after the damage occurs, you risk the damage becoming worse. This means you may need a replacement windshield instead. Getting repairs can help save you the time and hassle of a total replacement.
How to Prevent Cracks from Spreading Until You Get Houston Windshield Repair
One of the main risks of putting off Houston windshield repair is that cracks can spread and get larger. This just amplifies the dangers of a damaged windshield. There are some things you can do to prevent windshield damage spreading until you can get professional windshield repairs.
Place Clear Tape Over the Crack
If water, dirt, or other debris get into a crack or chip in your windshield, it increases the chances of the damage spreading. Therefore, you want to do what you can to keep debris and water from windshield damages. One way to do this is to cover the damaged area with clear tape. This can help keep things from getting into chips and cracks that can make them spread. It’s important to go with clear tape, like packing tape. However, even clear tape can distort visibility, so only use this trick for damages that aren’t directly in the driver’s view.
Drive Carefully Until You Get Houston Windshield Repair
Another tip we have for preventing windshield damage from spreading is to drive carefully. Vibrations can make chips and cracks get bigger, so you want to do everything in your power to reduce vibrations, especially while driving. Try to avoid hitting potholes, driving over speed bumps, braking hard, or even slamming car doors, as these can all shake the windshield and cause chips and cracks to spread.
Avoid Temperature Fluctuations
Temperature fluctuations can also increase the risk of windshield cracks getting bigger. Colder temperatures cause the glass to contract while warmer temperatures cause it to expand. If your windshield is already chipped or cracked, this can make the damage worse. Now, we know you can’t control the weather, but there are some steps you can take until you can get Houston windshield repair. For instance, park in the shade where it is cooler and avoid turning your air conditioning on full-blast when it’s hot out, as this can cause quick temperature changes. Try gradually decreasing the temperature in your car by putting the air conditioning on a lower setting for a while and slowly making the car cooler.
What NOT to do to Prevent Windshield Cracks from Spreading
If you have a chipped or cracked windshield, there are some things you should completely avoid. Some sources online recommend some DIY “hacks” for windshield cracks, but these can actually make your windshield worse. For instance, some websites recommend filling windshield cracks with superglue or clear nail polish. Doing this can make your windshield worse. First, often it’s impossible to completely remove these substances from the crack, which means technicians can’t complete Houston windshield repair. Yet, they won’t provide the same level of strength to your windshield compared to auto glass resins. This may mean paying for a windshield replacement instead to keep your car safe. In addition, once these materials dry, they are often cloudy-looking, which affects visibility through your windshield. Never try to fill a windshield crack yourself, instead you need to get professional glass repair as soon as possible from a qualified professional.
Apple Glass Company – Specializing in Auto Glass in Houston
Need auto glass repair? Our glass specialists at Apple Glass Company are here to help. We offer specialized glass services for cars, homes, and businesses. Our team offers comprehensive solutions whether you need glass repairs, replacements, or installation services. We have locations in Houston and The Woodlands to serve the Greater Houston metro area and also offer mobile windshield repair services. Contact us for a free quote today!
