How to Keep Your Windshield Clean in Winter Season in Calgary
Calgary winters can be tough, with lots of snow, bone-chilling temperatures and slick roads. Drivers deal with many challenges, from beating traffic to dealing with their fender benders, but a clean and clear windshield is one of the biggest. A filthy or fogged windshield can seriously ruin visibility to the point where driving is dangerous. Keeping your windshield clean, streak-free and safe for the winter season, requires consistent maintenance.
At Stealth Windshield Repair, we understand how important windshield care is for safe winter driving. We have an easy guide for keeping your windshield clean and well-maintained during the cold months in Calgary!
1. Keep Your Windshield Wipers in Top Shape
While your windshield wipers do work to keep the view ahead of you clear, when frozen out in winter, they’re just as often left useless as well. Here’s how to keep them functioning well:
- If leaving your car parked overnight, lift your wipers so they don’t freeze to the windshield.
- Be sure to add antifreeze wiper fluid so that it doesn’t freeze in sub-zero temps.
- If your wipers are frozen against the windshield, gently work on freeing them, but do not attempt to turn them on, as that will damage the motor.
2. Use the Right Windshield Washer Fluid
Although it’s easy to overlook, many drivers fail to keep high-quality washer fluid on hand during winter months. The incorrect fluid can freeze, rendering it useless when you need it most.
- Pick one that’s effective down to -40°C like one would find here in Calgary’s chilly months.
- Snow and slush can quickly dirty your windshield, so ensure you always have enough fluid.
- Having a bottle of washer fluid to spare is a good thing to have at the ready, especially when driving in winter weather.
3. Defrost and De-Ice Your Windshield Properly
Scraping the ice off your windshield is a regular winter chore, but it can be damaging if you do it wrong. Here’s how to effectively defrost and de-ice your windshield:
- Definitely don’t use metal objects as they will scratch the glass. A plastic ice scraper with a solid grip is the way to go.
- Give the heat some time to warm the glass slowly and get rid of the ice.
- The sudden temperature change can crack the glass. If needed, use lukewarm water instead.
- These sprays are fast-acting and melt ice and prevent it from redeveloping.
4. Keep Your Windshield Clean to Prevent Ice Buildup
A grimy windshield can promote the buildup of ice and frost. Watch for ice on the windshield, as keeping your windshield clear will help reduce ice build-up.
- Even in winter, it’s important to clean your windshield to remove dirt, salt, and road grime.
- You should use a microfiber cloth to wipe down your windshield for a streak-free clean.
- Products such as Rain-X help water and snow slip off your windshield, increasing visibility.
5. Protect Your Windshield Overnight
Avoiding ice formation on your windshield overnight can be a time-saving tactic in the morning. Here’s what you can do:
- Slipping on an ice-cold windshield cover will alleviate the need to scrape your windshield and will save you a few minutes on your morning routine.
- The morning sun naturally aids in melting ice and frost from your windshield.
- Use plastic bags to wrap around the blades, or you can get special covers for this purpose.
6. Check for and Repair Small Cracks Early
Cold temperatures can worsen small windshield cracks, as the temperature difference causes glass expansion and contraction.
- Look for tiny chips or cracks that can develop over time.
- Get fast fixes from Stealth Windshield Repair. This prevents the damage from growing any larger.
- Don’t pour boiling water into the cracks because it could help the crack to grow much faster given a sudden temperature change.
7. Use the Right Cleaning Products
It can also leave streaks that obscure your vision if you don’t use the right products to clean your windshield. Here’s what to use:
- Ammonia can corrode your windshield, particularly in the cold. To clean, use an auto glass-specific cleaner.
- Paper towels can leave behind lint and streaks, so use a microfiber cloth instead.
- A solution of vinegar and water can keep your windshield from getting frost on it.
8. Avoid Snow aAndIce Damage
Snow and ice can exert stress on your windshield, causing cracks and chips. Protect your windshield by:
- A soft snow brush should be used instead of sharp objects which may scratch the surface of the glass.
- Leaving your windshield only partially cleared risks your safety while driving.
9. Keep Your Car’s Interior Dry
Foggy windshields make it difficult to see, and moisture inside your car can cause this condition. Reduce interior moisture by:
- A small dehumidifier bag placed on your dashboard helps pull moisture out.
- Snowy boots, wet coats and damp mats can all bring in extra moisture.
- Fresh air circulating through your car can help reduce the humidity inside your vehicle.
10. Get Professional Windshield Maintenance from Stealth Windshield Repair
Stealth Windshield Repair is dedicated to ensuring your windshield is prepared for the frosty months ahead. Our services include:
- Get our windshield repairs for chips and cracks! Stop small damage from getting worse in winter.
- When your windshield is too damaged to be repaired, we provide speedy and cost-efficient replacements.
- We got you covered with expert advice for winter windshield care Find the right products and techniques for your windshield!
Final Thoughts
In Calgary, winters come with snow, ice and freezing temperatures, which can make maintaining your windshield a bit tricky. These tips vow you could keep your windshield clean, clear, and easily visible throughout the winter season.
Contact Stealth Windshield Repair today for professional windshield repair and replacement in Calgary. No matter how severe the winter conditions, our experts are available to help you drive safely!
Make your appointment today and stay winter-ready with your windshield!