3 Useful Tips for A Scratch-Free Windshield

Scratches on your windshield not only make your car look bad but also reduce visibility while you're driving. On the sunnier days, light could reflect off the scratch grooves. With glaring reflection, you might not see clearly when you drive. Moreover, your wipers may become ineffective since water droplets may collect inside these grooves.

Unfortunately, your windshield can get scratches quite easily. And while you can remove some with ease, other scratches require the expertise of an auto glass professional.

However, you can protect your windshield against scratching, especially the deeper and more pronounced ones. If you practice the following three tips, you might keep your windshield in top condition for longer.

Road debris and dust particles can cause scratches on your windshield, especially during high-speed driving. Still, most windshields can get scratches from degraded wipers that don't have the protective rubber coating.

The rubber clears your windshield of water and debris, but it can wear off with time. What you're left with is the bare windshield metal in direct contact with the glass surface. Without the protective rubber layer, your windshield might get visible scratches from friction with the bare metal.

Your wipers' longevity depends on several factors, including weather conditions, how often you use them, and their overall quality. But you need to replace them regularly before they can cause any damage to your windshield. Auto glass inspections can help assess their condition and determine if you need to change your wipers. 

Your car windshield can get cracks if you expose it to extreme temperatures. For instance, if you often park your car in direct sunlight, the heat might build up inside the car. The interior can reach very high temperatures, especially with the windows closed.

High temperatures might make the windshield glass expand and worsen any existing scratches. Your windshield may then grow weaker and become more vulnerable to impact and debris damage.

In the cold winter temperatures, frost might accumulate on the windshield if you leave your car out in the open. You may have to use a great amount of force to clear out the frost from your windshield. In doing so, you might unknowingly create scratches on the glass.

Make sure to park your car in covered areas with shade to avoid damage. If there are no covered areas, you could park your car under a tree rather than expose it to the powerful sun rays. During winter, make sure your car sits in a covered space to protect against frost.

Keep in mind that your car can fall victim to unexpected damage if you constantly keep it out in the open. Any falling objects can still scratch your windshield and make things worse.  

What you use to clean your windshield may have a huge effect on the glass. For example, if you use car shampoos with harsh chemical ingredients, the protective film on your windshield can easily wear off. These chemicals can eat away at the film and expose your windshield to accidental cracks and scratches.

Similarly, deep scrubbing can create scratches on the glass surface if you clean your windshield with a rough fiber washcloth. And if there are any pre-existing scratches, the washcloth can easily worsen them.

To avoid scratches on your car's windshield, switch your chemical-filled cleaners with water and vinegar. Not only will your windshield last longer, but so will the plastic and rubber components around it.

Additionally, you can use a microfiber towel to wipe down your windshield instead of makeshift washcloths. The microfiber cloths are likely to be gentler on your windshield when you scrub on it.

Scratches can only get worse with time, so don't ignore any signs. If you notice any visible scratching on the glass, reach out to Perfection Auto Glass for a more in-depth windshield inspection.