| From Press Release
December 25, 2006
04:21 PM EST (21:21 GMT)
Many car owners prepare well in advance for winter's harsh temps and extreme weather conditions. They equip their cars with snow tires, top off their antifreeze, maybe even buy special winter wiper blades. But what about the windshield? The windshield is a critical component of a car's safety system and needs extra special attention during winter months when extreme variations in temperature can make existing damage more severe. Make sure you have any existing chips in the windshield repaired as soon as possible, preferably before cold weather becomes a factor. By repairing a chip early, you not only restore the structural integrity of the windshield's glass, you also prevent the chip from turning into a crack, which may require a windshield replacement. In addition to safety, windshield repair is also a cost-saving option, as most insurance companies will waive the deductible for policyholders with comprehensive coverage. Most chips can be inexpensively repaired, depending on their location and severity, but larger ones and ones in the acute vision area mean a windshield must be replaced. Inspection laws governing windshield repair vary from state to state, so check with a certified windshield repair and replacement specialist. Do have chips in your windshield repaired before cold weather hits.Do gradually warm your car up in cold weather to prevent making chips in the windshield worsen to cracks.Do let your car's defroster partially thaw ice before using a scraper on your windshield.Do take your car to a certified windshield repair professional to get chips repaired.Do ask your certified windshield repair specialist about your state's regulations on windshield repair and replacement.Don't turn your cold car's heat and fan settings to maximum in freezing temperatures.Don't use hot water to defrost your car's windshield.Don't chop or stab at icy patches while using an ice scraper on your windshield. | 
