You need to keep your windshield protected because it keeps YOU protected. A secure windshield provides you visibility, of course. But here’s what a lot of people don’t know – it also fortifies the structural integrity of your vehicle. As temperatures begin to drop, your windshield becomes more susceptible to damage. Here are a few easy ways you can keep your windshield protected during the cold winter weather months.
Preparation is Key
One of the best ways to protect your windshield from cold weather is to take preventative measures. Keep track of the weather and note when temperatures are predicted to plummet overnight, especially if rain or snow is also expected.
Find a garage, if possible, or some form of shelter for your vehicle. If that’s not an option, consider putting a tarp over your windshield and side mirrors. It may not look pretty, but doing so can keep your windshield protected from freezing and save you precious minutes in the morning.
Another simple way to protect your windshield is to pull your windshield wipers up off the glass. This will prevent icy buildup and keep the rubber on your wipers fresh. If your wipers do have ice on them, use a little bit of rubbing alcohol on a cloth to wipe the ice away.
Only Use the Proper Ice Removal Tools
It’s understandable to want to use a pocketknife or hand-held shovel to remove ice from your windshield. We urge you NOT to use these tools, as doing so could potentially damage the auto glass beneath the ice. You should only use an ice scraper tool explicitly designed to scrape ice off of glass.
Scrape horizontally on the glass when using your ice scraper. As tempting as it may be, never stab into an ice buildup, even with the ice scraper tool. You may go through the ice and crack the glass beneath.
Invest in Winter Wiper Blades
We’ve already mentioned that one way to protect your windshield is to pull your wipers up off the glass before a night with freezing temperatures. You can further also help prepare your vehicle by investing in a pair of winter wiper blades. Winter wiper blades are stronger and more durable than standard wiper blades. They can easily remove the ice or snow accumulated on your vehicle and should only be used during winter.
Keep Windshield Wiper Fluid Filled
Check your windshield wiper fluid levels regularly as the weather starts to get colder. Drivers are more likely to use their windshield washer fluid to combat ice buildup in the winter.
Repair Cracks or Chips Immediately
Cold weather will only make an existing windshield crack worse. Get any cracks or chips in your windshield repaired soon after you notice the damage. Allowing it to sit will only make the damage worse in the winter.
Chip's Auto Glass offers mobile and in-shop auto glass repair and replacement services.
