How To Avoid Snow And Ice Damage To Your Windshield

Automotive Blog

When winter weather hits, it's important to protect your vehicle's windshield from ice and snow.  It's common to make mistakes that result in a cracked windshield.  Here are some tips to help avoid these mistakes.

Protect Your Vehicle From Ice And Snow

Your best defense is to always listen to the weather forecast and take steps to minimize your chances of damaging your windshield. 

• If you have a garage or carport, you should always park your vehicle there in order to avoid heavy snow, ice, and cold weather.  The weight of the snow and ice, along with cold temperatures, compromise the strength of your windshield.  This will make your windshield more susceptible to cracking.
• If you don't have a garage or a covered area available to you, place a tarp or a window cover on your windshield under the wipers.  You can also use cardboard or paper bags if you are "in a pinch".  This will keep snow and ice off your windshield, and you won't have to scrape it off.  A lot of damage to windshields is caused during the removal of the ice and snow.    

Removing Snow And Ice From Your Windshield Safely

If you were not prepared, you may find yourself with ice and snow on your windshield.  It's important not to rush the process of removal in order to avoid cracking.  It will take you extra time, but you'll be glad you did it. 

• Before entering your vehicle, you should always check your tailpipe to ensure it's not blocked up with snow or ice.  You must clear snow and ice out for your safety.  A blocked tailpipe can cause a build-up of carbon monoxide in your vehicle and can be dangerous.
• Heating up a windshield too quickly can cause damage.  When you first start up your vehicle, set your defrost on low.  Leave it on low for several minutes and slowly work your way up to the highest temperature.
• Never start scraping until you have let your windshield heat up sufficiently.  Once you're ready, use a plastic ice scraper and a soft brush to remove the snow and the ice off your windshield.  Make sure to use the edge of the scraper for removal.  The edge is designed to properly and safely remove ice and snow from glass surfaces.  Using other parts of the scraper can cause scratching or cracking to your windshield.  
• Be sure not to use excessive force if you're faced with needing to chip away ice off your windshield.  In this case, it's best to allow your vehicle to heat up longer in order to melt the ice.   

Pay attention to the weather and if needed remove snow and ice properly from your windshield.  If you do find that your windshield has been damaged, make sure to take your car to a reputable auto glass repair expert for help.

30 November 2014