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June 18, 2024

Summer Road Trip Ready: Ensuring Your Windshield is in Top Shape

Summer is the perfect time for road trips, whether you’re heading to the beach, exploring national parks, or visiting family and friends. As you prepare your car for the journey, don’t overlook one crucial element: your windshield. At Louis Auto Glass, we understand the importance of a clear and sturdy windshield for a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some essential tips to ensure your windshield is road trip ready.


Tips for Preparing Your Windshield for Summer Road Trips

 

1. Inspect Your Windshield for Damage

Before you hit the road, take a close look at your windshield. Check for any chips, cracks, or other damage that could worsen over time. Even small imperfections can become a big problem if not addressed promptly.

2. Fix Chips and Cracks Promptly

Small chips and cracks might seem minor, but they can quickly expand due to temperature changes, vibrations, and the stress of driving. At Louis Auto Glass, we recommend fixing any windshield damage before your trip. Our professional repair services ensure that small issues are resolved before they become bigger, more costly problems.

3. Clean Your Windshield Thoroughly

A clean windshield is essential for clear visibility. Use a quality glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to remove dirt, bugs, and other debris. Don’t forget to clean the inside of your windshield as well, as haze and smudges can impair your view.

4. Check Your Wiper Blades

Wiper blades are crucial for maintaining clear visibility, especially during summer storms. Inspect your blades for any signs of wear or damage and replace them if necessary. Ensure that your windshield washer fluid is topped up so you can easily clean your windshield on the go.

5. Protect Your Windshield from the Sun

The summer sun can be harsh on your windshield, causing expansion and contraction that can lead to cracks. When parked, use a sunshade to protect your windshield from direct sunlight and keep the interior of your car cooler.


Importance of Fixing Small Chips and Cracks Before Hitting the Road Small chips and cracks may seem insignificant, but they can pose serious risks. Temperature fluctuations, such as the heat of the day and the cool of the night, can cause these minor damages to spread rapidly. Additionally, the vibrations from driving and the stress of rough roads can exacerbate the damage. By fixing chips and cracks early, you can avoid the need for a full windshield replacement and ensure your car is safe for your summer adventures.


How to Maintain Clear Visibility During Long Drives

1. Keep Your Windshield Clean

Regularly clean your windshield to maintain clear visibility. Carry a bottle of glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth in your car for quick clean-ups during your trip.

2. Replace Worn Wiper Blades

Don’t let old, worn-out wiper blades compromise your visibility. Replace them before your trip and keep an extra pair.

3. Use Your Air Conditioner Wisely

Foggy windows can be a problem during long drives. Use your car’s air conditioner to regulate the temperature and reduce humidity inside your car, preventing your windshield from fogging up.

4. Avoid Following Too Closely

Following other vehicles too closely can result in debris hitting your windshield. Maintain a safe distance to reduce the risk of damage and keep your windshield clear.

5. Stay Alert for Road Hazards

Be mindful of the road ahead and avoid driving through construction zones, gravel roads, or other areas where debris is likely to be kicked up. If you do encounter such conditions, slow down to minimize the risk of damage.


At Louis Auto Glass, we’re committed to helping you enjoy a safe and stress-free summer road trip. By taking these steps to ensure your windshield is in top shape, you can focus on the fun and adventure that awaits. If you need any assistance with windshield repairs or maintenance, don’t hesitate to visit us. Safe travels!


Behind the Glass: Expert Insights from the Auto & Residential Glass Pros

December 18, 2024
The holiday season is a time of joy, but it can also bring financial stress. Between gift shopping, holiday travel, and unexpected expenses, car repairs may seem like the last thing you want to deal with. If you’ve found yourself with a cracked or damaged windshield, you might be wondering: “Will windshield replacement increase my insurance rates?” Let’s put your mind at ease. Windshield Replacement and Insurance Rates The good news is that windshield replacement typically won’t increase your insurance premiums. In Washington State, comprehensive auto insurance often covers windshield repair or replacement. Filing a claim for glass damage is considered a non-fault claim, meaning it usually won’t cause your rates to rise. Most insurance providers understand that windshield damage is often caused by unavoidable factors like road debris or severe weather. That’s why many policies include glass repair coverage with little to no deductible, depending on your specific plan. Why Act Now? Delaying windshield repairs can cause small chips to turn into large cracks, making repairs more costly or even requiring a full replacement. Driving with a damaged windshield is also unsafe, especially during the winter months when icy roads and poor visibility increase accident risks. How Louis Auto Glass Makes It Simple At Louis Auto Glass, serving Whatcom and Skagit counties, we aim to ease your holiday stress by providing fast, reliable, and seamless windshield repair and replacement services. Here’s how we make the process worry-free: Insurance Assistance: We work directly with your insurance company, helping you file your claim and ensuring the process is hassle-free . Affordable Options: Even if you don’t have glass coverage, we offer competitive pricing and financing options to fit your budget. Expert Technicians: Our certified technicians use top-quality materials to restore your vehicle’s safety and appearance. Convenient Service: With multiple locations , we accommodate your schedule, whether you're at home, at work, or holiday shopping, to ensure a quick appointment. Peace of Mind This Holiday Season Don’t let a damaged windshield add to your holiday worries. Trust Louis Auto Glass to keep you safe on the road while protecting your budget. Contact us today to schedule your windshield repair or replacement and enjoy peace of mind throughout the holiday season. Call Now or Request a Quote Online!
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October 30, 2024
Halloween is just around the corner in Whatcom and Skagit Counties, bringing fun, frights, and families on the move. With trick-or-treaters filling the streets and pumpkin patches bustling with activity, there’s no better time to make sure your car is ready for safe driving. Here at Louis Auto Glass, your local trusted auto glass repair shop, we’re here to help you prepare for a safe and enjoyable Halloween by keeping your windshield crystal clear. Why a Clear Windshield Matters on Halloween Night During Halloween, many neighborhoods are filled with extra foot traffic. Kids in costumes, sometimes less visible, may be running across the streets, and families are out in full force. A clear, streak-free windshield helps improve your reaction time, enhances visibility in low-light settings, and ultimately keeps everyone safer. Here are a few tips to get your windshield ready for the night: 1. Get Small Chips and Cracks Fixed Early With temperatures dropping as fall sets in, any small chips or cracks in your windshield can quickly turn into bigger problems. Cold weather can expand those cracks, making your windshield weaker and less safe. Not to mention, chips can create annoying light refractions at night, making it harder to see clearly. At Louis Auto Glass, we specialize in fast, efficient chip and crack repair to prevent these issues from worsening. Getting those minor repairs done now can make all the difference for visibility and safety—especially if you’re driving in areas like Downtown Bellingham or Mount Vernon, where Halloween events tend to attract lots of families. 2. Beware of Rain, Fog, and Humidity Fall weather in Whatcom and Skagit Counties often means unpredictable rain, fog, and high humidity. This moisture can make dirt and debris stick to your windshield, reducing visibility. To combat this, make sure your wiper blades are in good shape and consider applying a hydrophobic treatment to repel water. Louis Auto Glass can recommend the best treatments to keep rain and fog from interfering with your view on those dark, spooky October nights. It’s an extra layer of protection that can make all the difference when you’re trying to spot trick-or-treaters in dimly lit neighborhoods. 3. Inspect Your Headlights and Interior Glass For the clearest possible view, ensure your headlights are clean and working properly, especially if you’re headed through winding roads like those found in Chuckanut Drive or the scenic Skagit Valley. Additionally, keep the inside of your windshield and other windows clean to avoid glare and fog buildup that can occur during chilly Halloween nights. 4. Stay Aware of Local Events and Traffic Patterns Halloween events throughout Whatcom and Skagit Counties—whether it’s a community trick-or-treat or a haunted corn maze—tend to draw larger crowds, which means more cars on the road. Having a clean, clear windshield is essential when driving around other families enjoying the holiday fun. Louis Auto Glass is proud to serve our local communities and offer the peace of mind that comes with safe, reliable glass repair and replacement services. Why Choose Louis Auto Glass for Your Auto Glass Needs? As a family-owned business serving Whatcom and Skagit Counties for over 90 years, we are dedicated to helping our neighbors drive safely all year round. We take pride in offering top-notch auto glass repair and replacement to keep you safe on the road. So before you hit the road to enjoy the Halloween festivities, stop by Louis Auto Glass to ensure your car’s glass is in great shape. From windshield repairs to complete replacements, we’re here to make sure you can focus on what matters most: keeping your family safe while having a little Halloween fun.
October 9, 2024
We are thrilled to announce that Louis Auto Glass in Mount Vernon has won the Skagit Valley Best of the Best award for the Best Residential/Auto Glass Company—two years in a row! This incredible achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of our loyal customers and the amazing Skagit Valley community. We are humbled and deeply grateful for the trust you place in us to take care of your vehicles and homes when it comes to auto and residential glass needs. Thank You to Our Amazing Customers! At Louis Auto Glass, we believe that our success is built on the relationships we’ve fostered over the past 90+ years in business. From repairing your windshields to replacing residential windows, every job we do is handled with the highest level of care and precision. We know you have options, and we’re honored that you’ve chosen us, time and again, as your go-to glass company in Skagit Valley. Your votes in the Skagit Valley Best of the Best award, remind us how fortunate we are to be part of such a supportive and close-knit community. Whether you're a first-time customer or someone who has been with us for years, your feedback and continued trust fuel our passion for delivering outstanding service. What’s Next for Louis Auto Glass in Mount Vernon? As we celebrate this milestone, we remain focused on serving the Mount Vernon community and surrounding areas with the same dedication that earned us this award. With fall and winter approaching, we’re ready to help you stay safe on the road by ensuring your windshield and auto glass are in top condition for the colder months. Looking ahead, we’ll continue to innovate and improve our services, keeping customer satisfaction at the forefront of everything we do. From our team of expert technicians to our friendly office staff, everyone at Louis Auto Glass is dedicated to exceeding your expectations. Once Again, Thank You! Thank you, Skagit Valley, for trusting us with your glass repair needs and for supporting us with your votes. We are beyond grateful and will continue striving to provide the best auto and residential glass services in the area. If you need auto or residential glass services, don’t hesitate to give us a call or stop by our Mount Vernon location. We look forward to serving you!
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