Maintenance Habits to Keep Auto Glass Happy and Whole

There is a well-known cost and hassle hierarchy when it comes to automotive glass maintenance: it is cheaper to repair than to replace, and cheaper to prevent than to repair. The following articles subscribes to the notion that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and these tips aim to help car owners keep their vehicle’s glass in top shape year-round.

• Procrastination is an expensive bad habit – You should seek immediate treatment if you spot any cracks, dings, or chips in your windshield, no matter how minor they may appear to you at first. Busy schedules and limited mobility are no longer viable excuses to neglect windshield repairs, as many automotive glass experts offer clients mobile at-home servicing options. Neglecting minor windshield damages gives small cracks the opportunity to spread and worsen, taking you one step closer to requiring a full replacement with every passing day.
  

• Take care when closing car doors – This tip is especially true for those already suffering from minor cracks and damages, but even if your windshield is in pristine condition, it is in your best interest to use a gentle hand when closing car doors. Slamming the doors on your vehicle cause excessive vibrations that can cause damages to your windshield and side panels.
  

• Choose your parking spots with care – Most people are cautious when entering or exiting parking lots, but you should also be mindful of where you intend to leave your car for prolonged periods. Parking in direct sunlight can be bad for your vehicle, effectively reducing the lifespan of your windshield and tint. Choose a shady spot when possible.
  

• Be discerning about what you use to clean your windshield – As a general rule, you should try to only use cleaning formulas specifically made for car windshields. Regular window cleaner can be too harsh for car windshields, and ammonia-based window cleaners can be harmful for passengers if used inside the car. If you are desperate for a clean and are lacking a specialized autoglass cleaner, your best option would be to douse a microfiber cloth in warm water.
  

• Keep your wipers in good condition – Your wipers are an essential piece of equipment when it comes to keeping your windshield clean. Not only are clean wipers necessary for clean windshields, but dirty wipes can cause serious damage. Any sand or dirt caught under the blades will be dragged across your windshield with the potential to cause some serious scratch marks.