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Car expert reveals ways to keep your windscreen safe from damage in summer months & avoid unnecessary costs
It isn't the heat directly that causes damage
CAR experts have revealed ways to keep your windscreen safe from damage in the summer.
Some warmer weather is finally here and it is typically great for driving conditions.
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But did you know that it can also cause damage to your windscreen if you're not careful?
Experts at Prestone, car maintenance and protection fluids brand, are sharing a warning.
They are also giving some advice on how to take good care of your windscreen throughout the summer months.
How does warm weather affect your windscreen?
Slightly counter intuitively it isn't the heat directly that causes damage.
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It is the fluctuation in temperature that could cause damage.
Mechanical tension is placed on an object when parts of it are being expanded due to heat and some are contracting due to being cooled down.
When this happens to brittle materials such as glass it can cause them to explode or crack; this is called thermal shock.
How can I avoid thermal shock on my windscreen?
To avoid damage you're best steering clear of extreme temperatures.
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- Avoid leaving your car in direct sunlight
To stop your windscreen from accumulating a lot of heat avoid parking in direct sunlight.
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Consider parking under a tree, in a garage or other forms of shade.
- Take good care of your windscreen
A windscreen in good condition is less likely to be affected by changing temperatures.
Regularly washing your windscreen and checking for chips or cracks will allow you to fix the small issues before they require a full windscreen replacement.
7 TIPS FOR DE-FOGGING YOUR WINDSHIELD
HERE ARE EXPERT LAKE FONDA'S 7 TIPS FOR DEFOGGING YOUR WINDSHIELD:
Turn up the Heat:
One effective way to get rid of a foggy windshield is to turn up the heat in your car.
It will help expedite the defogging process by causing the moisture on your windshield to evaporate more quickly.
If you're wondering how it works, it's all thanks to the laws of thermodynamics
Use Your Car's Air Conditioner:
Additionally, you can also use your air conditioner to defog your windshield.
The colder air temperature will cause the moisture on your windshield to condense, making it easier to wipe away.
Set your air conditioner to the lowest setting and point the vents towards your windshield.
Crack Your Windows:
Another way to help eliminate a foggy windshield is to crack your windows, even if it's just a little bit.
Doing this allows fresh air to circulate in your car and helps get rid of the moisture in the air. Although old-school, it always works.
When you do crack your windows, make sure you don't leave them cracked for too long, or else you'll start to feel cold!
Wipe Your Windshield With Vinegar:
If you don't have any defogging solution, you can also use vinegar to help you out. You'll need a clean cloth and some white vinegar.
Wipe your windshield down with the cloth soaked in vinegar, and the fog will start to disappear.
You can also mix vinegar and water to create a diluted solution.
Always use a lint-free cloth when cleaning your windshield, so you don't get any streaks.
Use a Hairdryer:
Grab a hairdryer if you find yourself in a pinch and need to defog your windshield quickly.
Turn it on to the "hot"; setting and point it towards the foggy areas of your windshield.
The hot air will help evaporate the moisture and clear up the fog.
Just be careful not to hold the hairdryer in one spot for too long, as you don't want to crack or damage your windshield.
Use an Anti-Fog Solution:
There are many different types of anti-fog solutions that you can buy. They are available online or at a local auto parts store.
These solutions usually come in a spray bottle. You must spray it on your windshield and then wipe it off with a clean cloth.
The solution is made of different chemicals that help to prevent the moisture from condensing on your windshield.
Baking Soda:
Baking soda is a natural dehumidifier. It means that it can help absorb the moisture in the air, preventing foggy windshields and windows.
Fill a small jar with baking soda and place it in your car. Don't forget to remove the lid!
You can also sprinkle some baking soda on a clean cloth and wipe down your windshield.
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