Avoid Windshield Cracks in Freezing Tempuratures
Doug Stockman • January 11, 2025
Do you use hot water to clear a frozen windshield, read this.
Winter Weather Can Be Hard on Windshields
One of our valued vendors, 2020 Auto Glass in the Greenville, Spartanburg and surrounding areas sent this information about what to do and what not to do with freezing windshields and other auto safety glass. With cold weather, snow and ice upon us, now’s the time to protect your windshields. Cold weather can turn small chips into large cracks overnight, especially with the added stress of ice scraping and defrosting.
Here are some tips:
• Avoid Hot Water: Pouring hot water on a frosty windshield can cause cracks to spread.
• Scrape Gently: Use a plastic scraper instead of metal to prevent damage.
• Act Quickly on Chips: Even minor chips can worsen with freezing temperatures.
More Detailed Cold Weather Information
In winter months, cars take a beating from cold temperatures, snow, ice, and hail. Winter in Spartanburg is relatively mild, but even here there can be many freezing or snowy days. No matter where you live, it is important to be mindful of your car’s windshield in the winter. It isn’t so much the subzero temperatures, but rapid temperature change, that causes the most damage to your windshield. Be careful when heating up your car in cold temperatures. If your frozen windshield is blasted with hot air, the sudden change in temperature can cause it to crack. Similarly, you can severely damage your windshield by pouring hot water on a windshield covered with ice.
If your windshield is covered in ice, use proper tools to remove the ice. Never use a knife or a shovel, use ice scrapers designed for ice removal. It is a good idea to always keep one in your car. Be sure to scrape horizontally across the glass of your windshield. Vertical stabbing or chopping motions can chip the glass under the ice.
Washer fluid is used more often in the winter months, so make sure you always have your car stocked with washer fluid. A clean windshield is easier to see out of, especially when visibility is already bad due to the weather. Additionally, make sure your wiper blades are working properly to brush away snow and ice. You can even install wipers that are specifically designed for winter weather for optimal performance.
If your windshield does become cracked or chipped, make sure to address the problem immediately. In cold weather, chips and cracks will only get more serious. Cold temperatures and temperature fluctuations almost always result in chips turning into cracks, and cracks becoming bigger and bigger cracks. Luckily, there is a great windshield repair service that can get you back on the road in no time. 24/7 mobile service can meet you at your location, saving you from having to drive with a broken windshield.
20/20 Auto Glass will make winter windshield worries a thing of the past. Whether it’s a quick repair or a full replacement, they'll get you back on the road safely and efficiently. If your auto policy includes comprehensive or other than collision coverage, in South Carolina, the deductible is waived for auto safety glass repair.
Call or text them at (864) 641-3190 or clink the link below to schedule service today!
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