Neglecting routine maintenance, like cleaning your vehicle's glass, can lead to windshield and auto glass replacements and repairs. But, more importantly, your windshield is a vital component of your automobile's safety system, so keeping it in good condition is essential for the safety of you and other motorists on the road. Keeping your auto glass well maintained improves performance, safety, and it makes your vehicle look nice! This article will go over some ways to protect your windshield and the correct way of cleaning it.
Park Your Vehicle Inside
Our first suggestion for protecting your windshield is to park your vehicle inside whenever possible. Doing so will keep it in an environment with a consistent temperature and prevent inclement weather and extensive UV exposure from damaging it. Sudden shifts in temperature can cause existing damage, like cracks and chips, to expand and become worse.
Replace Your Windshield Wipers
Another way to protect your windshield is to replace your windshield wipers every six to twelve months. Over time windshield wipers deteriorate and collect debris. Whenever this happens, the debris and uneven wear on the wiper become abrasive to the glass. Once the wipers are cycled in this condition, they scratch the glass and allow contaminants to collect inside the scratches. By replacing your wipers regularly, you will prolong the life of your windshield and minimize scratching.
Cleaning Your Windshield and Auto Glass
Regularly cleaning your windshield extends its life and improves its performance. It's also a great time to inspect your windshield for chips and cracks that need to be repaired. Do not use your windshield sprayers and wipers for routine cleaning. They are designed to work in a pinch. The best way to clean your windshield is to use the right tools, products, and some elbow grease. If you want to know if your windshield needs cleaning, you can start by rubbing your fingers across it. If the glass does not feel smooth, then it is time to roll up your sleeves.
Before you begin, make sure that you have the recommended tools. You will want: microfiber towels, ammonia-free auto glass cleaner, and newspaper or towels. Microfiber towels are recommended because they are less likely to scratch the glass and they can be washed and reused. The automotive glass cleaner is also recommended because it is safe for tinted glass. In addition, a clay bar and cleaner are helpful whenever you're dealing with extremely dirty glass, but they are optional.
The ideal time to clean your windshield is after you wash your vehicle. This gets the bulk of debris off and will help you achieve streak-free results. After it's been washed, move it inside or to a shady place. Keeping the glass cool will prevent the glass cleaner from drying when applied and causing marks and streaks.
Once the vehicle is inside or under shade, allow the glass to cool for a moment. While it's cooling, take the time to prep your vehicle by placing newspaper or towels over the dashboard. This creates a barrier and protects the dash from the glass cleaner. At this point, the glass should not be too hot to touch. However, if it is, then you should wait a couple more minutes.
Next, you will need your ammonia-free glass cleaner and microfiber towels. Apply the glass cleaner directly to the inside surface of the glass and wipe vertically, then reapply the cleaner and wipe horizontally. Do your best to stay consistent and even when wiping. You should continue wiping until the surface is completely dry.
After you have cleaned the windshield on the interior, repeat the previous step on the exterior surface of the glass. If the exterior glass still feels rough after cleaning it, you should use a clay bar and cleaner. It will remove the grime and make the glass smooth. Next, reapply the cleaner, wipe, and dry. At this point, you should be finished and have a streak-free windshield!
It is important to maintain your vehicle properly to prolong its life and get the best performance. The same can be said about your vehicle's windshield and auto glass. Cleaning is probably not on the top of your list of exciting activities, but it is necessary, and it can prevent bigger problems down the road. If you are in need of auto glass, windshield replacement, or windshield repair services, Glass Inc. is here to help. The shop has been Atlanta's professional, full-service automotive, commercial and residential glazing company for over sixty years. To get more information or an estimate, give us a call today!
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