Brampton drivers know that the winter months, with their mix of icy roads, salt spray, and extreme temperature swings, can be brutal on a vehicle—especially the windshield. A damaged windshield is not just an aesthetic issue; it compromises the structural integrity of your car and your safety.
Here are practical, essential tips to help you protect your windshield from the harsh effects of winter ice, road debris, and drastic temperature changes.
1. Use a windshield cover to prevent ice buildup
In the winter, ice and frost buildup on your windshield can lead to cracks or even more severe damage when you scrape it off. To prevent this, invest in a good-quality windshield cover. This simple cover acts as a protective barrier between your windshield and the harsh elements, preventing ice and frost from forming overnight.
Tip: Make sure the cover fits securely, and avoid using makeshift materials like towels or sheets, which can freeze to the glass.
2. Regularly inspect and replace windshield wipers
Brampton winters often bring snow, sleet, and freezing rain, which can wear down your windshield wipers. Worn-out wipers can leave streaks or damage the windshield as they scrape over debris or ice. Inspect your wipers regularly, and replace them at the first sign of wear. When temperatures drop, consider using winter-specific wiper blades designed to withstand ice and snow buildup.
Tip: Before using your wipers, always remove any large snow or ice buildup from the windshield to prevent them from becoming damaged or causing scratches.
3. Use the right windshield washer fluid
In cold weather, it’s essential to use winter-grade windshield washer fluid. Regular fluid can freeze and cause streaking, whereas winter fluid is formulated to resist freezing even in sub-zero temperatures. This will ensure that your wipers stay effective in clearing ice and slush off your windshield.
Tip: Keep your windshield washer reservoir filled throughout the winter. Running out of fluid can leave you unable to clear away road salt and grime, which can lead to long-term damage.
4. Avoid sudden temperature changes
Brampton’s temperature swings—from freezing cold to warmer spells—can cause your windshield to crack if exposed to sudden changes in temperature. For example, turning on your car’s defroster at high heat while your windshield is covered in ice can create stress on the glass and cause it to shatter or develop cracks.
Tip: Gradually defrost your windshield on low heat settings and allow time for the ice to melt before applying heat. This will help avoid putting too much stress on the glass.
5. Clear off snow and ice carefully
When clearing snow from your windshield, avoid using metal or sharp tools like shovels or ice scrapers that can scratch or crack the glass. Opt for a plastic scraper or a soft-bristled brush to gently remove snow and ice.
Tip: Before using a scraper, run your car’s defroster for a few minutes to soften the ice or snow. This will make it easier to remove without damaging the glass.
6. Avoid potholes and road debris
In the winter, Brampton’s roads can be riddled with potholes and debris, which can cause cracks and chips if you hit them at high speeds. Stay alert for signs of debris and try to avoid sudden swerves or rapid acceleration near damaged areas of the road. If you know that certain roads are prone to potholes, try to avoid them or reduce your speed when driving on them.
Tip: Always keep a safe distance from vehicles in front of you, as large trucks or snowplows can fling debris onto your windshield.
7. Park in covered or protected areas
Whenever possible, try to park your vehicle in a covered or sheltered area to protect it from snow, ice, and debris. Parking under a tree or in a parking garage can help shield your windshield from falling branches, large snow piles, and other hazards that can lead to damage.
Tip: If you must park outside, try to position your car so that the windshield faces away from the prevailing winds. This minimizes the chances of snow accumulation and ice buildup on the glass.
8. Don’t use hot water to remove ice
While it may seem like a quick fix to pour hot water on your windshield to remove ice, this can cause thermal shock to the glass, leading to cracks or chips. Even if the temperature is extremely cold, never pour hot or boiling water onto your windshield.
Tip: Instead, use a de-icing spray or a mixture of rubbing alcohol and water to gently thaw the ice on your windshield.
9. Get windshield chip repair early
In Brampton’s harsh winter conditions, even the smallest chip or crack can worsen quickly due to temperature fluctuations and icy conditions. If you notice a chip or crack, get it repaired as soon as possible. Windshield repair is typically much cheaper than replacing an entire windshield, and it can prevent further damage caused by stress and pressure.
Tip: Some mobile auto glass services, like Bolt Auto Glass, offer mobile windshield repair services, so you don’t even have to leave your home to get your windshield fixed.
10. Maintain proper tire pressure
While this doesn’t directly protect the windshield, maintaining proper tire pressure helps ensure that your car handles better in icy or snowy conditions, reducing the likelihood of accidents that could result in windshield damage. Proper tire pressure also minimizes the risk of tire blowouts, which can send debris flying onto your windshield.
Tip: Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during winter months, and ensure that it aligns with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
11. Watch for falling ice from other vehicles
In winter, ice can accumulate on the roof of your vehicle and fall onto your windshield while driving. This can cause sudden and severe damage, especially if it’s heavy or frozen solid. Always be cautious around larger vehicles, such as trucks or buses, that may have accumulated snow or ice on their roofs.
Tip: If you have time, before driving, clear off the ice and snow from your own vehicle’s roof, windows, and side mirrors to prevent it from becoming a hazard to you or others on the road.
Protect your windshield, protect your wallet
Windshield damage is a common winter problem in Brampton, but by taking these simple preventive steps, you can greatly reduce your chances of a costly repair or replacement. Protecting your windshield from snow, ice, and debris will not only ensure that your vehicle stays in good condition but also enhance your safety on the road. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can drive through Brampton’s harsh weather with confidence—without worrying about windshield damage.
Need a windshield repair? Call us at 905-909-8877 for expert auto glass repair in Brampton today!
