The temperature may not be the direct cause for windshield breakage or cracks; however, the temperature can be an underlying cause. A dramatic change in temperature can cause a small chip to spread which may make a windshield replacement a necessity. In fact, it is not even the transition from winter to spring which can cause the most damage. It actually has a lot to do with the competing temperatures outside and inside the vehicle. The glass in your windshield expands with heat and contracts when cold, so this flexing of the two layers of glass puts a lot of stress on the windshield. In cases of extreme outdoor temperatures – be it hot or cold - you are likely blasting the air conditioning or heater to make your vehicle comfortable for you and your passengers. It is these contrasting temperatures which can cause gradual deterioration of your vehicle's windshield. If you want to see just how hot the outside of your windshield can get, lay your palm against the outside of your windshield on a really hot sunny summer day when the car has been sitting in a parking lot all day. But be warned, the surface may be too hot to keep your hand on for more than a second or two. During times of extremely hot temperatures, your windshield becomes more susceptible to splits and cracks, which can obstruct your view. In order to avoid damaging your vehicle's windshield every winter and/or summer to the point of requiring a windshield replacement, Glass America recommends gradually adjusting the temperature inside the vehicle to avoid dramatic effects. For instance, if it is 100 degrees Fahrenheit outside, begin by setting your air conditioning to 80 and then gradually making it cooler as the car cools down from the summer heat. The gradual change will have a reduced effect on the windshield. If the time has come for a replacement because you were unaware of the damaging effects of drastic temperature changes, be sure to have your vehicle's windshield inspected by a Glass America professional. If a repair or replacement is needed, Glass America follows all Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standards (AGRSS) for the safety of all of our customers and our free mobile service means we can come to you whenever and wherever needed! Your vehicle will be ready for your next hot summer adventure before you know it. Find a Glass America location close to you today and get an instant quote online for your windshield replacement.