During a powerful hurricane like Helene, broken car windows can expose your vehicle’s interior to rain and debris, leading to significant water damage. If your car’s window broke during the storm, it’s important to act quickly to prevent long-term damage. Here’s what you need to do to protect your car and its interior from further harm.
Secure the Broken Window
If you notice a broken window, your first step should be to secure it. Cover the opening with plastic sheeting or a tarp to keep additional rain and debris from entering the vehicle. If you don’t have these materials on hand, garbage bags can work in a pinch. Tape the covering in place to seal the opening as best as possible until you can get the window replaced.
This temporary fix will help keep moisture out, but it’s essential to replace the window as soon as possible to fully protect your vehicle.
Remove Standing Water
Water inside your vehicle can cause a host of problems, from mold growth to damage to electrical systems. As soon as you’ve secured the window, remove any standing water inside the car using towels or a wet/dry vacuum. Be sure to dry out the upholstery, carpets, and floor mats thoroughly.
If the water has seeped into the seats or carpets, fans and a dehumidifier can help speed up the drying process. It’s important to act fast, as mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours after water exposure.
Inspect the Interior for Damage
Once the water is removed, inspect your vehicle’s interior for signs of damage. Look for water stains on the seats, dashboard, and carpets. Even if the water damage seems minor, it can lead to unpleasant odors, mold growth, and damage to electronics if not treated promptly.
Pay particular attention to any electrical components, such as power windows, seat adjusters, or dashboard lights. If these components aren’t functioning properly after the storm, it’s important to have them inspected by a professional.
Address Exterior Damage
Broken windows during a storm often come with exterior damage as well. Flying debris can leave dents and scratches on your car’s body panels. Even if the damage seems cosmetic, dents can worsen over time and lead to rust or paint chipping. This is where DentFX comes in.
Restore Your Car’s Dents with The Dent FX While you’re dealing with the broken window, don’t forget to address any dents or exterior damage caused by the storm. The Dent FX specializes in paintless dent removal (PDR), an eco-friendly way to restore your car to its original condition without needing paint or fillers. After you’ve secured the interior, let us help you restore the exterior to make your vehicle look as good as new.
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