Parking your vehicle in a garage or covered carport is best, but not always possible, especially when you are out in a busy city like Victoria. Often you have little choice but to leave your car parked outside where it inevitably becomes exposed to increased wear and tear, harsh weather, and possible incidental damage.

While a few dings, scratches and dents are no big deal to your safety, a damaged windshield will compromise your safety. To maintain the integrity of your vehicle’s windshield, it’s best to avoid parking in these areas:

Construction zones

Whether it’s your own home remodel or city construction nearby, it’s best to avoid leaving your vehicle near construction sites. Flying debris, nails, screws, wood fragments and tools may cause accidental damage to your vehicle, and if something sizeable were to hit your windshield, you would likely need to have it repaired or replaced. While the builder’s or your own insurance will cover the cost of repair, it still presents a hassle to have to go through the process.

Under trees

In the hot summer months, parking under a tree is preferred for many, so that one may return to a car that is cool and shaded from the sun. However, there are red flags to look out for when parking under a tree. Some trees, such as pine, produce large amounts of sticky sap that forms a strong, resin-like bond when it hardens onto surfaces like the windshield. Not only does this sap reduce visibility, but it is also difficult to remove. Using the wrong tools or method of removal can lead to a damaged windshield.

On a windy or rainy day, it is also advisable to avoid parking under trees with large overhanging branches which may break and land on your vehicle. Old trees that are not maintained may have branches breaking without outside factors. Falling debris can cause damage that can vary from unsightly scratches to big cracks on the windshield requiring replacement.

On narrow streets

Getting side-swiped is a common occurrence when parking along narrow streets, resulting in a scratched-up body or a damaged wing mirror. While this is nothing major, it is still an unwelcomed inconvenience. Not everyone will bother leaving a note either, so it is likely you will have to bear the cost of any repair.

If you’re driving around with a damaged windshield or your wing mirror held on with electrical tape, it’s time to bring your vehicle in to First Response Glass. Whether it’s just a small chip repair or a full windshield replacement, our trained technicians can advise you on the best course of action.