Do you use a metal scraper to remove ice from your windshield? Or do you pour hot water over the ice to get it to melt faster? If so, you are not alone. These are common ways that people go about de-icing the windshields on their car. However, these methods can seriously damage your windshield. The hot water can cause your windshield to crack and a metal scraper can scrape your windshield, making it hard to see, especially when the sun is glaring against the scraped area. While taking your time and thawing out your car is truly the best way to remove ice, there are other things you can do to get the ice removed faster. Here are a few ways to go about de-icing your car without damaging your windshield.
Vinegar
There is a myth out there that if you spray an iced windshield with a mixture of water and vinegar, the mixture will cause the ice to melt. While the mixture will not melt ice, it can help ice from forming in the first place if you spray your windshield with it the night before. Mix two to three parts apple cider vinegar with one part water. Then spray your windshield down with the concoction. The acidity in the vinegar will prevent ice from forming, so you won't even have to worry about de-icing your car the next morning. However, be aware that you should never use this mixture on a windshield with cracks or chips that have not been repaired. The acidity in the mixture can cause further damage to these cracks and chips.
Rubbing Alcohol
If your windshield has ice on it and you need to defrost it quickly, simply mix two parts rubbing alcohol to one part room temperature water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on your windshield and sit back and watch. The alcohol causes the ice to instantly slide off your windshield. If the ice is caked on to your windshield thickly, you may need to repeat this process until all of the ice is gone.
Salt
The last way to safely de-ice your windshield is to mix one tablespoon salt with two cups of water. Apply the mixture to your windshield and the salt will melt the ice. To speed this process up, you can use a plastic ice scraper to remove the ice as it begins to thaw. A plastic scraper should only be used to remove chunks of ice that are already thawed and should not be pressed against the windshield as it can scratch the glass if enough force is used.
If your windshield has sustained damage, you will want to repair it or replace it right away. Driving a car with a damaged windshield can impair line of vision while driving and put your safety at risk if you are involved in an accident. Only 1 Auto Glass knows the importance of having an undamaged windshield. Bring your car to us for all of your St. Paul, MN. auto glass repair and replacement needs.