Here on the east coast, there’s no denying that Old Man Winter has finally arrived, and with him comes a number of nuisances — one of which is a frozen windshield caked in snow and ice. At ABS Auto Glass, our windshield replacement company serving Bucks County and the surrounding areas understands that coming out to an icy windshield in the morning when you may be already running late can be quite frustrating. However, it’s not only essential for your safety, but for the protection of the motorists you share the road with as well.
Now, while you may be in a rush, there are some windshield de-icing tactics that you may have heard of that can actually cause more damage to your windshield and vehicle.
What NOT to do:
- Don’t just start chipping away at the ice with a random object, especially one that’s sharp or made of metal.
- Don’t merely clear away a small circle on your side to see; if you cannot see through your full windshield, this poses a serious risk to you and other drivers.
- Don’t try to pour boiling liquids on your windshield; the extreme change in temperatures can cause it to shatter.
That being said, there are a few easy and safe ways to handle a buildup of ice on your windshield. In fact, one of the best ways to deal with an icy windshield is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Let’s take a look:
Make You Own De-Icer
With Rubbing Alcohol
With a DIY de-icer, you can prepare for those cold morning commutes by combining a mixture of two-thirds rubbing alcohol and one-third water in a spray bottle. Shake it up and spray it on your windshield. In a matter of seconds, the ice should begin to dissolve, making it easier for your wipers to finish the job.
With Salt Water
Pour water into a spray bottle and add a spoonful or two of salt, preferably road salt. Since this saltwater mixture has a lower freezing point than freshwater, it begins to melt the ice as soon as you spray it on. Pro tip: keep the saltwater solution from contacting any parts of your vehicle except the windshield; the salt can corrode metal.
With the proper preparation, you can keep you, your passengers, and other motorists on the road safe this winter season. If you do require windshield replacement in Princeton, NJ, or the surrounding areas, contact us today for professional and prompt services.