Replacing your car's windshield can be a costly process, especially if you have a rain sensor, a heads-up display, or other high-tech equipment integrated into your glass. In many cases, repairing glass problems is a drastically more cost-effective option. While replacement may be unavoidable in cases of severe damage, you can often avoid this fate by being vigilant and taking quick action.

These three tips will help you to ensure that you can spot and repair glass damage before it's too late.

1. Don't Ignore Road Damage

How often have you been driving down the highway, only to hear the sudden snap of a rock smashing into your windshield? If you're like most drivers, then you may quickly glance around your windshield before breathing a sigh of relief. Unfortunately, many small rock chips or cracks may not be immediately apparent from inside of the car.

Whenever you hear something make contact with your windshield, make a mental note to inspect your glass thoroughly. Once you've safely stopped your car, carefully examine the windshield for signs of damage. Be sure to pull up your windshield wipers to check the entire pane of glass. If you notice a problem, contact a professional immediately to have it repaired.

2. Never Leave a Crack or Chip Untreated

Professional auto glass repair shops will fill cracks and chips with a special resin to restore your window's structural integrity. Without this filling agent, temperature changes can cause even minor problems to grow and destroy your windshield. It may seem like a safe enough idea to leave a chip for a few days or weeks, but cracks that expand to a much larger size will always require replacement.

You should be especially wary of windshield damage during the winter months. Water can get inside of cracks and chips, eventually expanding as it freezes. The sudden expansion caused by freezing water can cause even tiny cracks to snowball out of control. Temperature-related expansion and contraction of the glass itself pose a similar threat all year-round.

3. Go Easy on Your Glass

While repairing damage as soon as you notice it is the most important thing you can do to save your windshield, some essential care can also go a long way. During the winter, never use hot water to clear ice, as this can cause the glass to expand and crack rapidly. Likewise, avoid long-term sun exposure during the summer, where possible.

Remember that repairing your car's glass will always be a cheaper and easier option than replacement. By following these three tips, you can help to avoid damaging your glass beyond the point where repairs are possible.

For more information on auto glass repair, consider reaching out to your local body shop.