5 Winter Tips That Can Save Your Car's Windshield
Posted on: 5 January 2015
Winter weather can be hard on cars, especially on your front windshield. Your windshield takes the brunt of snow and ice, and it's also exposed to the sand and rock debris spread on roads to make them safer to navigate during icy weather. Knowing a few winter windshield tips can keep your view clear until the weather warms up.
Tip #1: Repair Early
Rock chips and small cracks may not seem like a big deal right when they happen, but as the temperatures begin to drop in winter they can become a major problem. Temperature fluctuations from freezing weather and warm glass can cause chips to develop into large cracks, compromising the integrity, safety and visibility of your window. Getting a small chip repaired promptly helps prevent winter cracking. If the glass does crack, get it replaced immediately.
Tip #2: Scrape Wisely
Ice scrapers were invented for a reason – the plastic edge is gentler on windows compared to metal. Trying to scrape a window with a metal spatula or using a knife to chip away at the glass will leave behind small scratches or chips in your auto glass. Just like a rock chip, these will become larger and require an eventual window replacement. Replace you scraper if the edge becomes worn or uneven. Even plastic can scratch the glass and reduce visibility if the scraper isn't in good shape.
Tip #3: Defrost Slowly
Rapid temperature changes from cold to hot are a sure recipe for a badly cracked windshield. Although it may seem like a quick fix, avoid the temptation to pour hot or boiling water over the windows to melt the ice. Instead, run the defrost as the car warms up so the ice melts slowly. After a few minutes of defrost, the layer of ice in contact with the window typically melts enough that you can scrape it off easily.
Tip #4: Clear Safely
Heavy snow loads put pressure on your window glass, which can make breakage more likely if you already have an existing crack or chip. Wet snow weighs more, so it's more likely to pose a weight issue. Although the chances of breakage are slim if your window is in otherwise good shape, it's still a good idea to brush off the snow as it accumulates to avoid a heavy load. This isn't just easier on the glass, it prevents pressure and warping on the windshield wipers and rubber seals.
Tip #5: Lift Nightly
Damaged windshield wipers are a safety hazard, because they won't clear the glass properly, and a windshield hazard, because they can scratch or etch the glass. During cold weather, lift the wipe blades when you park for the evening so they don't freeze to the glass. Also, take a few minutes to wipe the blades with a clean cloth when you're scraping the window. This removes any debris so it doesn't become trapped beneath the blades and lead to window scratches.
Your car windows can handle a variety of extreme weather conditions without any major damage, if you take the time to care for them properly. (Go here for more information on auto glass repair)
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