Where You Park Can Have an Impact On Your Auto Glass!
We often hear the phrase privilege, not a right. The ability to obtain a drivers license is based on one’s ability to, well, drive! From new drivers to experienced drivers, we all like to take caution when it comes to the way we drive. Whether on the highway or on a congested downtown street, we practice safe driving every chance we get. Safe driving not only aids in keeping you, your passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers safe, it helps maintain the overall well-being of your vehicle as well.
One particular practice that contributes to damaged auto glass that we often do not think about is parking. Parking is seemingly the safest practice when it comes to driving and with your vehicle being out of motion, many ask,
“how can parking actually cause damage?”
It doesn’t necessarily come down to the parking abilities of the individual, but rather, the surroundings of where they choose to park. If your auto glass has been damaged in any way due to parking hazards, our Auto glass shop can help you get it back to tip-top shape. With that being said, what are some parking hazards that could cause damage to your vehicles auto glass?
Trees, leaves, and branches
Often times, we park under trees to avoid damage from weather elements such as snow, hail, and sun. Ironically enough, trees can actually cause significant damage to your auto glass as well. In harsh winds, for example, branches can be torn off of trees and land directly on your windshield. Even small branches can cause scratches and chips that, if not dealt with right away, could grow into larger damage. While trees can provide shade from the sun, preventing your vehicle from overheating, they can pose damage on days where the weather isn’t so favourable.
How to avoid damage when parking under trees:
Avoid parking under or around trees when the weather is less favourable. For example, high winds, lightning, hail, or any other weather condition that can cause the structure of a tree and it’s attached branches to become compromised.
Construction sites
Parking near construction sites is not a good idea, however, in congested cities or places where parking is limited, it may be your only option some days. Construction sites are home to a plethora of debris, heavy objects, and tools. Although the workers on site are equips with protective gear, your vehicle isn’t, ergo should anything from the construction site come into contact with your auto glass, it could cause damage. Falling heavy objects from construction sites is rare, although it is a concern. The most common concern when it comes to parking around a construction site is the amount of debris. Unlike tools, machinery, objects, and materials, debris isn’t controlled, ergo, it’s easier for it to fall outside of the construction site premises. Debris can come in the form of small rocks, sand, and leftover bits of materials which, when in contact with auto glass, can cause scratches and chips. Often times, people will utilize their wipers to remove debris, however, doing so can cause the debris to move and scratch across the surface. If possible, it’s best to avoid parking near any construction sites.
How to avoid damage when parking around construction sites:
When parking around construction sites, try to keep your car as far away as possible. If you cannot do so, consider investing in an external windshield cover as the windshield typically sees the majority of the damage when it comes to construction sites.
Extreme heat and beaming sun rays
The summer months are upon us and while we are free from the snow, hail, and ice, for now, there are some elements of summer that can actually cause harm to auto glass as well. Extremely hot days where the sun is at its peak can wreak havoc on vehicles parked outdoors within its path. How so? The suns powerful rays can warp glass over time. If your vehicle is consistently parked outdoors, exposed to the sun, the glass can begin to warp and weaken which may require a full replacement down the road. In more extreme cases, the suns reaction with objects inside the vehicle can also be damaging to the glass. Aerosol cans (paint cans, spray deodorant, etc), when exposed to extreme heat, can explode and fragments of the can may chip, scratch, or shatter your auto glass. Although not as harsh as the winter elements, the sun can pose a threat to your auto glass.
How to avoid damage when parking in extreme heat:
Consider parking indoors/underground if you have the option. If not, limit the time your vehicle sits outside in the blazing sun. Parking around tall buildings that provide shade is a great option if you cannot park indoors or underground. It’s also important to ensure any aerosol cans or similar items are out of view of the sun. These items should be stored in the trunk to avoid overheating.
While we like to take precaution while our vehicle is in motion, it’s also important to note measurements taken when our vehicle is simply parked. Where you park and what surrounds you can have an impact on the well being of your auto glass. Next time you park your vehicle, take a quick look around. If the parking area seems hazardous, it’s best to find another parking space.
Has your vehicle’s auto glass suffered damage even when it wasn’t in motion? Not to worry, we can help! Contact us today for a FREE quote!
Tags: auto glass repair
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