Dos and Don’ts of De-Icing Your Windshield

Everybody has a favorite trick for getting ice off their car’s windshield. Some ice removal techniques work better than others, and some run the risk of ruining the glass. Every winter, we take care of repairs and replacements that didn’t have to happen in Davenport, IA. Here’s a guide to what you can and can’t do to your car’s icy glass and windows.

Don’t Risk Glass and Seal Damage

It’s not easy to break a windshield’s glass, but the wrong de-icing methods can cause cracks and compromise seals.

• Don’t pour cold, hot or even warm water on frozen glass. It results in thermal shock that can break tempered glass.
• Don’t splash glass with vinegar and water. The mixture pits the windshield’s surface and can cause dings and cracks.
• Don’t use a hairdryer. Even on a low setting, its heat can ruin a windshield’s seals and damage custom tints.

Do Handle Ice Removal Carefully

Before you start removing ice from any auto glass, let the car warm up for several minutes with the defroster turned on. Always work slowly and carefully.

• Do spray the warm glass with a saltwater solution. Use table or rock salt, but don’t pour the mixture over the glass.
• Do substitute a two to one mixture of alcohol and water for your saltwater spray. Add a few drops of dishwashing detergent to speed up thawing.
• Do use a commercial de-icer specially formulated for auto glass. This is your best choice because it thaws ice without damaging glass or seals.
• Do finish up by carefully removing ice with a squeegee, stiff bristle brush, or plastic ice scraper.

Protect Auto Glass From Winter’s Worst

Prevention is always a part of winter car care, so show that auto glass some love. When the forecast calls for freezing rain, cover the car with a tarp. If the weatherman predicts snow, blanket the windshield with towels soaked in saltwater, or spray the glass with deicer. It’s always a good idea to put a little alcohol in the windshield’s washer reservoir too.

Stay Warm and Safe

When you get ready for another Midwest blizzard with routine winter car care, keep your vehicle’s glass on your to-do list. A little protection ahead of time can save you a chilly morning spent scraping ice off the windshield. Our Kryger Glass family in Davenport, IA wants you to stay safe and warm, and know we’re here for you with expert auto glass services all year-long.