Tyler, TX (KETK) — Soner or later we all get a chip or a scratch on our windshields, and in this East Texas summer heat, if you don't get those minor problems taken care of, they could quickly turn into costly repairs

They start out so small, sometimes seemingly unnoticeable, but, if you take the time to treat a scratch or crack as soon as it happens, it will save you hours at the repair shop.

Experts tell KETK that once you notice small, new damage to your windshield, try to keep the area as clean as possible by putting some packaging tape over the damage to keep out any debris.

And when they say clean, that does not mean with soap and water.

Windshield shops need the area to be as dry, and pure as possible.

Taking your vehicle to the car wash will actually get water in the crack, and make it grow faster.

And in this East Texas heat, you may your glass damage worse by putting up reflectors behind your windshield, because experts it is liking putting your windshield in a convection oven.

Yes, it keeps the rest of the car cool, but it makes the windshield that much hotter.

Now most insurance companies will cover small windshield repairs free of charge, since it is a preventative measure.

But once it has to be replaced, it's a whole new ball game.