Stay Safe this Winter with a Weatherproofed Windscreen
Getting your windscreen weatherproofed for winter is not just something you can buy in your local auto parts or big box store. It is a series of steps taken to make sure the windscreen is safe and will protect you and your loved ones this coming winter.
Inspect the condition of your windscreen. A windscreen provides structural stability. The windscreen provides almost one-third of the structural stability of the car. A cracked or damaged windscreen may not provide protection in the event of an accident. And frigid temperatures may cause further damage to a cracked windscreen.
If your windscreen is damaged get the chip fixed or replace it now before the cold winter months arrive.
What Else can You Do?
In addition to the condition of the windscreen there are other steps car owners can take to make their windscreens safer this winter.
Increase Visibility with a Rain Repellent
Treat your windscreen with a rain repellent. There are do-it yourself treatment but for a truly repellent windscreen treatment hire a professional to do the job.
Another step to take while treating your windscreen is to apply a product that prevents or reduces fogging and freezing of the windscreen.
How are your Wiper Blades?
If you have not replaced your wiper blades in the last year now would be a good time to take a look at them. If they show wear it is time to replace them. Furthermore, you may want to consider wiper blades that are made for winter driving if you spend a lot of time on the road.
Keep your Windscreen Clean
Keeping your windscreen clear of slush, road salt, and road spray is important for good driving visibility. Purchase a windscreen washer product that is made for winter driving conditions.
Protect your Windscreen Year Round
Windscreen safety doesn’t end when spring and summer arrive. The following tips will help to protect your windscreen during the rest of the year.
Avoid parking in sunny locations on hot days. High temperatures can cause stress on the windscreen glass.
Allow some of the built up heat to escape from the car by opening the windows before turning on the cars air conditioner. Not only will this help cool your car faster it will prevent the windscreen from being damaged by extreme temperature change.
Following simple safety rules will keep you and your windscreen safer. Follow cars at a safe distance, this is even more important in inclement weather conditions or when driving in heavy traffic. Following the 3 second rule during good driving conditions gives you time to respond to conditions in the road ahead of you. This safe distance rule should be increased to 6 seconds at night, in fog, light rain or snow, and heavy traffic conditions. In bad weather such as heavy rain, snow, or fog the safe distance rule should be increased to 9 seconds.
Remember a protected windscreen will protect you!