Mr Bill when I first used mine I read the instructions and then forgot It was a warm day about 75 or so and had a star break. I pushed the button to get it glowing orange then put it to the shield. I continued to hold the button and count at about 15 seconds I heard the horrible crack sound and it spread to about 3 inches. Then I realized I probably should have let off on the button, or maybe I just unlucky it hasn't happened since.