Technical Tip - Hot Weather

It is summer repair time again, and that means dealing with those really hot windshields. Remember, if a windshield is too hot to leave your hand on comfortably, it is too hot to repair. In addition, we have infrared digital thermometers available to give you the exact temperature of that windshield (http://www.deltakits.com/dki-catalog/infrared-thermometer.html). Repairing a hot windshield increases your chances of damaging the laminate or even making the damage worse. I have already taken some tech calls this summer asking for advice on just what to do with those windshields that are too hot to repair. Optimum temperature of a windshield should be 70-90 degrees. Keep in mind, while the outside temperature is 90 degrees, a windshield in direct sunlight can be upwards of 120 degrees!

If you have shade, use it. A shop, awning, or tent can be your best friend during these hot summer months. If shade is not available make sure you have something with you to cover the glass to keep direct sunlight from hitting it. You can use your hood protector or a towel. Make sure to roll down the side windows to let all of that trapped heat out. You can also use the air conditioner, but try using the floor vents instead of the defroster vents. Using the floor vents, and cooling the entire cabin or the car will cool the glass more slowly, decreasing the chances of a crack out.

The very best thing you can bring with you this summer is a little patience. Take that extra minute to cool down the windshield, and you will be much less likely to disappoint a customer by cracking out his windshield.

-Matt Larson