Summer road trips are a quintessential part of the season, whether you’re heading to Cedar Point, Lake Erie shores, or exploring Ohio’s state parks. Before you pack the car and hit the highway, ensure your auto glass is road-trip ready. Long summer drives present unique challenges that can put your windshield and windows at risk.
Construction Zone Hazards
Summer is peak construction season across Ohio, with highway projects from Cleveland to Cincinnati. Construction zones create risks for your auto glass, including loose gravel, debris from work vehicles, and stones kicked up by sudden stops.
Tip: Reduce speed in construction zones and maintain extra distance. If you encounter fresh chip seal or gravel roads, consider alternate routes to protect your windshield.
Increased Traffic and Highway Debris
Popular summer destinations mean busier highways and more opportunities for flying debris. Semi-trucks carrying construction materials and recreational vehicles can lose cargo or kick up road debris that threatens your auto glass.
Tip: Stay alert on busy highways like I-71, I-77, and I-80. Keep plenty of following distance, especially behind large trucks or vehicles with unsecured loads.
Extreme Temperature Stress
Ohio summers bring intense heat that stresses your auto glass. A small chip can quickly spread across your windshield when exposed to temperatures over 90 degrees, especially with rapid air conditioning cooling.
Tip: Get any chips or cracks repaired immediately before your trip. Highway vibration and temperature extremes can turn minor issues into major windshield replacements. Park in shade when possible.
Severe Weather Preparedness
Summer storms develop quickly in Ohio, bringing hail, high winds, and flying debris. Your auto glass becomes your first line of defense against the elements.
Tip: Monitor weather forecasts and have a severe weather plan. If hail is predicted, seek covered parking safely. Never drive through severe hail storms.
Pre-Trip Auto Glass Inspection
Before your summer adventure, inspect your auto glass for chips, cracks, or damage that could worsen during travel. Check that windshield wipers are in good condition for sudden summer storms.
Tip: Check windshield edges for loose seals or trim. Address any issues before hitting the road, as highway speeds and temperature changes can worsen problems.
Keep Your Summer Safe and Clear
Don’t let auto glass damage ruin your summer plans. Senneco Auto Glass offers mobile service throughout Cuyahoga and Summit Counties, so we can come to you at hotels, campgrounds, or rest stops.
Contact us today at our Cuyahoga Falls location at (330) 922-8240 or our Maple Heights location at (216) 587-1113 for pre-trip inspections or emergency repairs. Our experienced technicians understand summer driving challenges and can ensure your auto glass is ready for whatever the season brings.
Make this summer memorable for all the right reasons – start with clear, safe auto glass from Senneco Auto Glass.