Most people only think about their windshield in the winter. This is a mistake because it requires proper care. Maintaining it right not only reduces unplanned expenses but also improves your safety. The windscreen is an integral part of the overall shell of the vehicle. It helps maintain the strength and stability of the vehicle’s body. How can you prolong the life of your windshield?
Clean It Regularly
You need to clean the interior and exterior of your windshield to remove dirt, grime, and bugs. This helps avoid obstructions. It also improves the aesthetic appeal of your vehicle. Understand that cleaning should be strategic to avoid damaging the screen. For instance, you ought to use a soft sponge and non-abrasive cleaning products to prevent scratching the glass or dulling it. If you are cleaning off snow and ice, be careful to use the right type of ice scraper. Never throw hot water on ice because the thermal shock is likely to crack it.
Fix Chips and Cracks
If you notice a chip or crack, you should have it repaired immediately. Chips and cracks, irrespective of how small, can result in the entire windscreen shattering. This would be dangerous, especially if it breaks while you are driving. Replacing an entire screen would also be expensive and inconveniencing. If you use your wipers on the cracked glass, the glass will damage the rubber element of the wiper blades. Since you should get outstanding repair services, get in touch with reliable auto glass experts in Chandler.
Maintain Your Windscreen Wipers
Faulty windscreen wipers can damage your windscreen. If you notice an uneven wipe, it is proof that your wipers are not working correctly. You should avoid using wipers to de-ice the windshield. This compromises the blade, the arm, and the motor of the wiper. You might need to replace them if you notice streaking, worn rubber, chattering, bent wiper frames, and split rubber. Unless you are an expert, you should entrust wiper repair and replacement to a professional.
Install a Bug Guard
Your windscreen will come into contact will all manner of bugs. Most of them will leave a sticky mess on your screen, especially when you are driving at speed. While you can always wipe the mess off, it can affect your visibility significantly. A guard works by pushing bugs up and over your vehicle. It is true that installing such a deflector costs money. However, the advantages it offers are unlimited.
Protect from Direct Sunlight
You might not have control where you park your vehicle most of the time. Whenever possible, however, make efforts to park in a shaded area. Direct sunlight weakens the glass, which shortens its life. UV rays compromise the tint and structural integrity of not only the windscreen but also all windows of the vehicle. If your windshield has cracks, temperature changes will aggravate them.
Understand that you can only prevent overblown problems if you maintain your windscreen correctly. This makes it essential to keep an eye on your windshield. Since some issues might not be evident to you, you ought to have a professional look at your windscreen regularly.
