Winter is on the way, and with it the harsh conditions that may lead to the dreaded crack in your windshield. Even a small ding can grow over the course of a cold month and lead to your entire windshield needing replacement. Today we want to help you be prepared for the coldest time of the year with these helpful tips on how to take care of your windshield in the winter months.
Keeping Your Windshield Clear
One of the best preventative measures that you can take to ensure your safety on winter roads is increasing your visibility through your windshield. This will allow you to better see and respond to hazards that may be avoidable on the road, such as trucks that are spitting gravel in their wake. To do this right, you should warm up your car for about five to ten minutes with the defroster running before beginning to clean the windshield of snow and ice. By that time, you should see the snow and ice beginning to slide down the windshield on its own. Not only will this allow you to use your ice scraping implement with much more ease, but it will reduce your chances of damaging your windshield while cleaning.
Maintain Your Windshield
Cleaning your windshield shouldn’t just be limited to cleaning off the ice and snow. During winter months, your windshield may be exposed to higher levels of dirt, abrasive materials, acidic substances, and even salt or chemicals from road de-icing. It is important that at least once a week you give your windshield a proper clean with a cleaning solution capable of removing this build-up. Many commercial windshield cleaners are up to this task, but if that is not available, a mixture of water and vinegar can be used in a pinch. Wipe it down well with a microfiber towel after you squeegee off the cleaning solution. If possible, leave the car in a garage or covered area while it dries after cleaning. You should also avoid “shocking” your windshield with sudden temperature changes such as pouring hot water on iced windows.
Get Your Windshield Inspected
You should closely inspect your windshield every time you get in to operate your vehicle, but even constant vigilance can miss potential problems and you will find that you need a second pair of eyes. This is where a windshield inspection comes in. Don’t hesitate to get an inspection early and often throughout the winter months. Well-trained repair technicians can find small chips or pits where you wouldn’t even think to look and quickly repair these on the spot before cracks start to spread. This can save you a great deal of money down the line and many technicians offer these inspections free of charge.
Keep Your Windshield Sturdy For Safe Winter Driving!
Do you have any questions about how your windshield can be taken care of in winter or even year-round? Contact us for more great tips on how to keep your auto glass in one piece.