Cracks and chips are two main reasons people invest in windshield replacement. Rocks and other debris can hit the auto glass while you're driving. The resulting damage creates a glare that makes it hard to see and weakens the structural integrity of the windshield. To prevent these safety concerns, here are a few tips to keep the installation intact. 

How to Protect Your Windshield While on the Road

1. Drive on Pavement

Although sometimes unavoidable, try to stay away from gravel and dirt roads when possible. When you drive on concrete and asphalt surfaces, there's less risk of tiny stones and other road debris becoming airborne and landing on your vehicle's windshield. When you must drive over unpaved paths, do so slowly to minimize the risk of flying debris. 

2. Keep Your Distance

Driving too close to the vehicle you're following on the highway is dangerous. Your response time becomes shorter. If the driver in front of you stops abruptly, you might not have enough time to stop to avoid a rear-end collision. Tailgating also puts you too close to the flying debris that kicks up from the vehicle's wheels and any cargo that might fall from the car, too. To create a wider clearance, maintain a following distance of at least three seconds. This means you will pass by road markers three seconds after the car in front of you does.

3. Park in the Shade

During warm, sunny weather, park in a shaded area or put a protective cover over the windshield. These steps could prevent stress cracks. The fissures form when heat causes the auto glass to expand. When you turn on the air conditioner, the glass becomes cool and shrinks. The expansion and contraction cause breaks to form over time.

If you've noticed windshield damage, don't hesitate to reach out to the professionals at family-owned, insurance-certified Mr. Glass in Rochester, NY, for windshield replacement. With over 40 years of experience, the company is known for its windshield replacement and commercial glass services. Get a free quote and service information online, and call (585) 271-1270 to hear about the mobile glass repair solutions. Don't miss out on Facebook announcements.