We could all use a little extra cash, and this month DeDona has a $50 VISA Gift Card available for one lucky participant to spend however they like!

If you’re wondering what the catch is – there is no catch. No purchase is required to enter this drawing, and there is no obligation or additional participation necessary. Please see below for the Terms and Conditions* of this contest.

How do I enter?

Whether or not you have participated in our giveaways in the past, entering is very simple.  Just scroll down and leave a comment under this article, including a working e-mail address that you have access to (this is how we will contact you if you win!), and that’s it! Just by letting us know you are interested, you are entered to win.

The deadline for entry is May 31^st. It only takes a second; leave your comment below!

*Terms and conditions

A comment entry below is required to enroll in this giveaway. Contest Guidelines are as follows: 1) Must be a legal US resident; 2) must be at least 18 years of age or older; 3) must enter a valid e-mail address so we can contact you; and 4) an entry does not guarantee receipt of this prize. One winner will be randomly chosen from all entries.

The post Win a $50 VISA Gift Card from DeDona! appeared first on DeDona Tint & Sound.

Traditional headlights have seen many advances in bulb tech and automation, but even the most expensive headlights cause a distracting effect in the rain when droplets are illuminated; and the driver’s field of view becomes clouded by thousands of bright specks.

This new computerized, projection-based headlight system from the Intel-Carnegie Mellon collaboration has shown promising results and may one day make the traditional headlight all but obsolete. Instead of a bulb, or set of bulbs, simply emitting light forward to illuminate the road ahead, this new headlight system functions much more like a projector and is supported by a camera that constantly scans the road ahead, digitally filming rain droplets as they come into the path of the light beam.

The imagery from the camera is sent to a processing unit (computer) which identifies rain drops within the light beam and adjusts the headlight’s output to darken in the spots where the drops are falling. Simply put, the headlights are able to fully illuminate the road ahead while avoiding the rain droplets altogether effectively making them invisible to the driver, a process being called ‘Selective Illumination’.

Photo credit: Autoblog.com

There is a small amount of latency (lag time) due to the system requiring several milliseconds to first identify the rain droplets and then instruct the projector to blot them out. This extremely brief delay means that droplet will be seen only at the upper portion of the light beam, but they will be ignored before reaching the driver’s line of vision.

As promising as the technology is, vehicles likely won’t be equipped with such a system until later in the decade. The technology needs time to mature and there’s no question that material cost and the size of the entire assembly are other hurdles to overcome. However, even in its earliest incarnation this new headlight technology has proven that the idea of digitally removing rain from a headlight beam is possible!

One day soon, with more advanced revisions of this new headlight system, nighttime driving in the rain may not present any visibility hazard at all.

[CNET]

The post Future Headlight Technology Makes Rain Invisible appeared first on DeDona Tint & Sound.

Mr. Perlman’s research has mainly focused on nutritionally enhanced processed food product and other subjects involving chemistry, physics and biochemistry, but his most recent endeavor was inspired by the hassle of windshield wipers freezing to the glass; a common occurrence in the New England area.

Many drivers will flip up their windshield wipers when ice is in the forecast to avoid freezing rain and snow from accumulating on the blades and freezing, which can make clearing ice away from the windshield quite a task if you have to dig out the wipers from a thick coat of the slippery stuff.

Daniel Perlman’s solution? Small, unobtrusive spring-loaded pegs installed into the arms of the wiper blades. These pegs keep the wipers raised just 1 to 2 inches off the glass which is just enough to keep water and ice from collecting and freezing them to the windshield. When local weather stations announce a chance of ice, drivers manually flip down the small pegs, and when they are no longer needed, the pegs will automatically retract when the wiper switch is activated.

For those that park on or just off the street, folding up the wipers can invite both vandalism and freak damage from debris tossed around in high winds, but Perlman’s pegs give just enough clearance to avoid ice build-up without the need to fold them up and then back down again.

While these handy devices aren’t expected to be a complete solution to frozen wipers, and the patent is still pending, the value and ease of use could certainly make them a worthy investment if they are offered commercially at the right price.

View the original article this piece was sourced from at Phys.org.

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Can I take my wrapped vehicle through a car wash?

This is one of the more common questions asked about vinyl. While technically there’s nothing wrong with taking a wrapped vehicle through an automated car wash, we don’t recommend doing it because it increases the risk of irreversible damage to the material. Not all car washes are the same, but most will have high pressure water jets that can lift the seams/edges of the vinyl material and may even cause rips. Brushes with harsh bristles can also cause tearing and ripping.

Even if you see no immediate damage from an automated car wash afterward, consistent use of these car washes will certainly reduce the overall lifespan of the vinyl.

What about manual car washes with hand-held sprayers and brushes?

We would still recommend against using the “self-serve” car washes that provide you with a high pressure sprayer and brush. Firstly, you have no idea what kind of debris and grime has collected in those brushes from previous vehicles, and there’s a chance you could end up applying dirt or other impurities onto your vinyl and paint causing scratches and blemishes.

The hand-held sprayers may not be quite as powerful as an automated car wash; however user behavior becomes a new problem in this situation. Holding a high pressure sprayer too close to the vinyl can result in lifting seams, creating gaps, and possibly tearing the material just like the water jets in an automated car wash.

Which is the best way to clean my wrapped vehicle to avoid damaging the vinyl?

By far, the most recommended way to keep your wrapped vehicle clean is to wash it by hand. The essentials you’ll need for this are a microfiber cloth, a soft sponge, and non-abrasive soap. Better still, you can also use a waterless car wash, such as Aquanil from CroftgateUSA, to keep your ride clean while protecting the paint and vinyl.

Aquanil is a product we use in-house at DeDona to clean and protect vinyl without the need for water. This product includes a mix of detergents and macro polymers, breaking down and suspending dirt and grime to make cleaning easier. The macro polymers left behind provide a protective coating and long-lasting shine. Aquanil also contains anti-statics which help keep dust from collecting on your vehicle’s surfaces, and make future cleanings easier.

You can order this product directly from CroftgateUSA’s website here, or grab a bottle while you’re visiting our shop to keep your ride looking its best without risking damage from a car wash.

The post Will a Car Wash Damage my Vehicle Wrap? appeared first on DeDona Tint & Sound.

Utilizing the power of modern technology, we’re able to repair most windshield chip damage instead of replacing the entire windshield. If a chip in your windshield can be repaired, the more costly process of replacing the entire glass can be avoided.

Which types of damage can be repaired, and which can’t?

It’s important to note that not all windshield damage can be repaired, but most types of smaller chips the size of a quarter or smaller can be repaired, in addition to single cracks 24 inches or less. Chips usually have an appearance of a silvery or white color with small black spots. The black areas get their appearance from trapped air inside the chip itself. If the chip contains no dark spots and simply appears as a white speck, this is only surface damage that did not penetrate to the interlayer and should not be repaired.

How is windshield damage repaired?

We’ve already described the repair process in detail on our blog here. To summarize, the process involves drilling into the chip and extracting the air, then injecting a specially formulated resin compound into the damaged area. The resin is then cured with an ultraviolet light, which restores the structural integrity of the glass and drastically diminishes any appearance of damage.

Will a chip in my windshield expand to form a crack?

Even the smallest of chips can expand into cracks over time if left alone as a result of temperature fluctuations and structural pressures while driving. The wisest course of action is to have the chip repaired as soon as possible. This will all but eliminate the chance of the damage expanding into a crack under normal conditions.

How long does the repair process take?

Repairing a windshield chip is a relatively quick process, taking only about 30 minutes from setup to completion.

I live in the Greensboro area, where can I get my windshield chip repaired?

Right here at DeDona Auto Glass! We’re located centrally in Greensboro and only a short drive from areas like High Point and Kernersville. If you aren’t able to visit our shop, our mobile service can come to you and repair the damage on the spot. Call us today at (336) 851-1300 or contact us through our website for a free quote.

The post Can I Repair My Windshield? appeared first on DeDona Tint & Sound.

When automakers manufacture a vehicle, sound deadening auto insulation materials are installed at various key locations, like floor pans and door panels, designed to reduce road noise and vibration while driving. If you’ve ever noticed how quiet and smooth the ride is in a high-end luxury vehicle, it is important to realize that these insulating materials play a major role in that experience.

So, what are the benefits that come with installation of high quality car audio insulation materials?

1. Reduction in Road and Engine Noise

Much of the noise you hear inside the cabin of your vehicle comes from the vehicle’s tires rolling against the pavement as well as the sound of engine noise and acceleration. By adding a barrier in the form of auto insulation material in floor pans and other locations, much of this unwanted noise can be eliminated.

2. Vibration Reduction

High-power sound systems can cause all kinds of mysterious noises, mostly resulting from vibrating panels in the trunk and doors from subwoofers and loud speakers. To prevent this, sound deadening materials are applied between the interior panels and metal surfaces beneath which results in a much cleaner listening experience, minus the vibrating and rattling of panels.

3. Temperature Control

Aside from the acoustic improvements listed above, auto insulation is also the foundation for interior comfort because it helps maintain a consistent interior temperature. Older and cheaper vehicles often have very sparse insulation coverage and that means it can be difficult to keep the interior temperature comfortable. With installation of high quality insulation throughout, the vehicle’s interior temperature will be much more consistent which means happy drivers and passengers.

The self-adhesive sound deadening insulation we use is completely discrete and will make a dramatic difference in your driving experience. For more information on installation and pricing, please contact us here, or by phone at (336) 851-1300.

The post Car Audio Insulation (Sound Deadening) for a Quieter Driving Experience appeared first on DeDona Tint & Sound.

Peace of mind is increasingly hard to come by these days, especially where automobiles are concerned. From the days of the very first cars, they have been prime targets for thieves because of their value and what might be left inside. DeDona Tint & Sound knows vehicle security is an important concern for every driver – installing an alarm system is an excellent way to deter someone from trying to illegally enter or operate your vehicle.

Essentially, a car alarm system consists of one or more sensors linked to a siren which produces and audible warning when an unauthorized individual attempts to enter the vehicle. Of course, there’s a bit more depth and complexity to modern alarm systems, having an array of sensors and motion detectors throughout the vehicle. In some cases alarm sirens can be customized to make an audible alert preselected by the owner, and most alarms include a receiver which can detect input from a keyless system. These days alarms are on the cutting edge of technology, allowing for mobile alerts via text/cell phone whenever the vehicle’s alarm is tripped, and also allowing you to track the movement of your vehicle should it fall into the wrong hands.

Unless you are absolutely confident in your experience and ability, alarm systems should always be handled by professional installers. If you choose to buy a system and install it yourself, there may be many unforeseen issues, and improperly tampering with any electronics can lead so some extremely serious problems. Having an alarm system installed by professionals means you get a guarantee on the work performed, and the job will be done correctly. If problems arise due to workmanship, the installer will make it right. We can’t speak for everyone, but at DeDona that’s a commitment we make to all of our customers.

There are many reasons to install an alarm system if your vehicle is not equipped with one. Some insurance companies will even give you a discount on your premium after installation of an alarm. The bottom line is, if you enjoy your vehicle, or like the way it looks and drives, chances are someone else does to, and that person might be inclined to make an attempt at depriving you of it. Protect your investment; protect yourself and your family.

Contact DeDona Tint & Sound today at (336) 851-1300 or contact us directly through the website and let us provide you with a more secure vehicle and enhance your peace of mind.

The post Car Alarm Systems from DeDona Tint & Sound appeared first on DeDona Tint & Sound.

RV Windshield Repair and Replacement

Whether your motorhome is equipped with a one-piece or two-piece windshield, we’ve got you covered. Fortunately, many small chips caused by road debris can be repaired at a tiny fraction of the cost of replacing the entire glass. Once a chip is repaired, the structural integrity of the windshield is restored and the visual evidence of damage is greatly reduced.

As we’ve said on many occasions, the expansive view of an RV windshield is important both for the traveling experience and safety. Chips, cracks or more severe damage should be addressed as soon as possible to ensure your field of vision is clear and the vehicle is road-worthy, and also to prevent minor chips from expanding to the point when repairs are no longer an option.

If the damage to your RV’s windshield is too severe then replacing the glass will be necessary, but this is a task that many local auto glass companies are not able to handle. DeDona Auto Glass has extensive experience replacing windshields in RVs both new and old across the whole spectrum of manufacturers. We understand that many coaches have unique construction and design features that require case-by-case handling and installation procedures, and we won’t let windshield damage come between you and your next journey down the road.

RV Side Windows and Mirrors

RV side glass and mirrors are more often damaged by severe weather, falling branches, parking accidents or other unforeseen circumstances rather than debris from the road while driving. Repairing damage is quicker and more affordable than replacing the glass, making it the preferable option when possible.

Side mirrors are absolutely vital for safe driving, especially for larger vehicles like RVs with limited rear visibility. If your mirrors are damaged, we can fix that as well!

Insurance and Warranty

DeDona Auto Glass works with all major insurance providers to ensure your service goes smoothly. If your policy covers the necessary repair or replacement, we will assist you with resolving your claim. Additionally, all glass repairs and replacement are covered under our warranty. Should there be a problem with installation or repair due to workmanship or material defect, we will make it right (please read our entire warranty here for more information on coverage and exceptions). Contact us today at (336)851-1300, e-mail us at autoglass@dedona.com, or contact us directly through our website free quote form to request more information. We look forward to serving you!

The post RV Windshield and Window Replacement for Spring 2013 appeared first on DeDona Tint & Sound.

What is a HUD?

The heads-up display gets its name from the design purpose – to present information to a pilot or driver without requiring them to look downward or to the side in order to receive that information. HUD technology has been used in aviation for many years, and now it is finally being revived once again in the auto industry as a more advanced, affordable and user-friendly option. The hope is that this feature, like back-up cameras, will become a mandatory feature in the near future.

What are the benefits?

The goal of the HUD is to provide you with instant information, so that you don’t have to look down at your instrument panel while driving. While that may seem like a distraction, looking away from the road to check the speedometer or other gauge is a much greater distraction that we all deal with day-to-day. By presenting information subtly but noticeably within your field of vision, you can still keep your eye on the road the whole time.

Information reading from the speedometer and tachometer are only scratching the surface though; automakers are thinking much bigger. More advanced systems will be able to outline or trace the edge of the roadway in low visibility from inclement weather like heavy fog, allowing you to anticipate an upcoming bend in the road.  As the technology develops, these systems will even be able to indicate signage and provide other intelligent alerts if visibility is dangerously low.

Other information can be conveniently displayed as well, such as stereo info, vehicle warnings, turn signal activation, external and internal temperature, as well as GPS navigation. HUDs are also designed so that the driver can increase or reduce the brightness of the display, reposition the display, or turn it off completely (in other words, the feature is not forced on you if you don’t want to use it, which is a relief).

Does this system require a high-tech windshield?

The beauty of the HUD system is that the windshield is only used to reflect information, at least in current offerings from companies like GM. The information is projected from within the top of the dashboard through a series of mirrors, and reflected off the interior surface of the windshield. If the windshield is heavily damaged, you won’t have to replace a prohibitively expensive piece of engineering in the process. However, windshields designed for use with a HUD system are specifically designed for such a purpose, being specially coated to clearly reflect HUD imagery to the driver.

Further advancements in heads-up display technology are constantly ongoing. The goal eventually is for HUD technology to mature into a system using data gathered from an array of vehicle sensors and cameras, and project images generated by compact ultra violet lasers directly onto the entire surface of the windshield. With a system like this, the entire windshield would become a canvas to display relevant information from navigation, low visibility assistance, landmark and destination display, and perhaps even social media and more interactive functions.

The post High Tech Windshields – The Heads-up Display (HUD) appeared first on DeDona Tint & Sound.

If you love an evening of bowling with family and friends, this is one giveaway you don’t want to miss. You will have a chance to be one of TWO WINNERS who will each be receiving 4 free tickets redeemable at Triad Lanes or Tarheel Lanes for 2 hours of free bowling, and on top of that, four shoe rentals will be included!

With more than 70 lanes between them, Triad Lanes and Tar Heel Lanes offer bowlers of all levels recreational and competitive atmospheres. Both facilities feature onsite amenities including billiards rooms, full-service lounge areas, and active arcades. In addition to open hours, the alleys host special events, such as cosmic bowling on Friday and Saturday nights from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.

There’s no catch to this giveaway, it’s simply a way for us to give back to our wonderful customers!

How do I enter?

Whether or not you have participated in our giveaways in the past, entering is very simple.  Just scroll down and leave a comment under this article, including a working e-mail address that you have access to (this is how we will contact you if you win!), and that’s it! Just by letting us know you are interested, you are entered to win.

The deadline for entry is April 30^th.

The post DeDona Giveaway – An Evening of Bowling (Two Winners!) appeared first on DeDona Tint & Sound.