3 Tips for Winter Windshield Care
Safe winter driving includes maintaining your vehicle’s windshield from the conditions. Visibility on the road is the most important thing while driving, and between snow, rain, ice, and fog, improper care can lead to an accident. Windshields account for 30 percent of a car’s structural support. A strong windshield can protect you and your family in an accident. Glass contracts and expands when the weather changes, and such natural movement can exacerbate existing problems.
Here are three essential tips for winter windshield care.
1. Never Pour Hot Water on Glass
For those living in areas where winter conditions are harsh, you may be tempted to pour hot water or use a blow drier to melt ice off your windshield. Unfortunately, while this seems like a shortcut, this can cause your glass to shatter or break. Heat shock is a severe issue every winter for novice car owners. Shoveling and patiently waiting for your car to heat up is a nuisance, but a cracked car window is a lot worse in the winter.
If you’re concerned about ice damage to your windshield or don’t have the time to wait for it to defrost, consider investing in a high-quality plastic cover for your car or parking it indoors in the winter. Preventing your windshield from icing over entirely can go a long way in maintenance costs.
2. Stock Up on Windshield Wiper Fluid, and Don’t Be Afraid to Use It
Your wipers should be fully functioning before the winter to maintain visibility on the road. Stock up on wiper fluid and use it often as you’re driving. Make sure to buy wiper fluid that is specifically made for cold temperatures rather than an all-season one, as this liquid can freeze and cause problems while you’re on the road.
You should also ensure that your defroster works well before cold weather hits, so your windshield doesn’t freeze. Checking on the life of your windshield wipers is vital. They are plastic and go through a lot in just one winter season, so if your windshield wipers aren’t cleaning as well as they should be, you may want to get replacements. The last thing you want is your wipers failing as you’re driving down a snowy road. It’s a small and easy way to stay safe while driving in the winter.
3. Repair Cracks and Chips Before the Winter
Cracks and chips in your auto glass are serious. They compromise the safety and integrity of your vehicle. Not only do they lower visibility, but a seemingly small crack weakens the overall glass. Rocks flying at your windshield when you’re going down the freeway, hitting potholes and bumps, and general wear and tear can cause existing cracks to worsen. Replacing your glass is a safe and easy process and likely won’t cost you as much as you think.
At Smiley’s Autoglass, our experts are trained to properly replace and install windshields to last and keep you safe. If your windshield needs to be fixed or replaced before the winter season, call us at 804-320-7172 and schedule a time to bring your vehicle in. Our process is quick, so you can have your windshield replaced and return to your day. Or, ask about our mobile glass replacement, a convenient option where we send our techs to perform the work in a location of your choice, like a home or business.
