Your windshield and other windows are extremely important parts of your vehicle’s structural integrity. They provide rigidity in the body and prevent vehicle sway, much like the sway bar does underneath. But once your windows are compromised, they can crack or shatter. The following situations can lead to cracked or shattered windows:
- Stone chip in one of the windows
- Crack in the glass
- Stress from an improper installation
- Pressure from misalignment
No matter what it is, if there is a flaw in your window it can crack or shatter when the temperature drops.
How extreme cold affects the glass
Extreme cold temperatures cause everything to contract. Metal, rubber, sealant, and even glass are subject to expansion and contraction in any temperature difference. When your glass is exposed to extreme cold, there won’t be a problem if your glass is in good condition and installed correctly. Even though the glass will contract at a different rate than the metal, the sealant that holds the window has enough flexibility to allow the windshield to maintain its integrity. There is more stress on the glass, but its structure is able to withstand the pressure.
If your glass is chipped or cracked, the extra pressure on the glass can cause your window or windshield to crack or shatter, though it is more common for cracks to form than for the window to shatter. The crack will typically form from the point of weakness and extend towards the edge, but not always.
Because your window can break in extreme cold weather, it is very important to be prepared. Window Tinting can help you be safe!
Window tint covers the entire pane of your glass, which can come in handy if it ever breaks during an accident. The tint can act like a bandage by holding shattered glass together when it breaks, reducing the risk of loose shards that can cause harm to the driver or passengers.
But did you know that’s not the only benefit tinting your car windows can give you?
Window Tinting can help ease the stress of winter driving! Here are some of the reasons:
More insulation
Window tint acts as an insulating layer by trapping interior heat inside the car in the winter. This helps you save money in fuel costs as you are not running your heating element as much in extreme temperatures.
Better visibility
Tinted windows during the winter months will minimize glare from snow and incoming headlights, increasing your visibility. Glare is actually intensified in the winter when the ground is covered by white snow or even just sleet and rain. Headlight glare can also be a big hazard with the later sunrises and earlier sunsets during winter.
Less fade
Not only does auto tinting protect passengers in the car from UV rays, but it also prevents the colors inside your vehicle from fading. This protection maintains the condition of the interior of your vehicle, so it will look new for longer.
Although winter is long and dreadful at times, you can improve your driving experience with auto tinting. Not only will your vehicle be warmer and maintain its interior appearance, but you’ll be able to stay warmer, see better, and drive safer in even the worst winter weather.
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY AND GET YOUR WINDOWS TINTED, GET A QUOTE NOW
salazartint.com 