Tips to protect your windscreen

REPAIRING a windscreen can be costly so it’s no wonder you want to keep it safe and protect it from harsh weather and damage.

It’s easy to take preventative measures to help protect your windscreen.

If you’re wondering how to stop your windscreen from freezing during winter, then our first tip comes highly recommended. You can either purchase a windscreen ice cover or make one yourself. To make one, you can use a sheet that’s folded twice or rubber bathmats. If using a sheet, don’t forget to dry it fully before using it again.

Stay away from using newspaper as a windscreen protector as it can freeze to the glass and be difficult to remove.

2. Refrain from reaching for the kettle

Let’s be honest, we’ve all done it. You wake up late on a frosty morning and don’t have time to wait for the heaters, so you reach for the kettle.

By pouring boiling water on a frosted windscreen, the temperature on the glass goes from subzero to almost 100°C in a matter of seconds and increases the chance of cracks appearing.

3. Keep a de-icer in your car De-icers in a spray bottle are useful for melting ice and frost quickly. They are relatively cheap and can be purchased in most petrol stations. Simply spray some on your windscreen and use your windshield wipers to wipe away any residue.

If you don’t have a de-icer at hand, then household ingredients can be used as substitutes. Try a mix of salt and water solution or hand sanitiser. Rubbing alcohol can also help defrost your vehicle.

4. Use the heat from air conditioning

This takes some time so it’s best to get out of bed early on a frosty morning if it’s your only option. Turning on the heat inside your car will help the ice on the outside to melt. Be sure that the vents are aimed at the windscreen.

You may already be using a protection film to protect the glass on your iPhone or Samsung, but did you know you can also use one to help prevent damage to your car windscreen?

Although it may be costly as the film is usually fitted in a garage, it’s definitely a lot cheaper than replacing a windscreen.

If you drive regularly in an area where there’s lots of construction or roadworks, then it’s a good idea to invest in film protection if you want to protect your car.

6. Keep your distance

This may seem obvious, but it’s one of the best tricks for protecting your windscreen from chips and cracks. Not only does it protect you from a collision if the car in front has to stop suddenly, but it also prevents stones and debris on the road from being flicked onto your windscreen. 7.Park your car in a safe place

If you work or live near an area that’s under construction or near roadworks, then you should be parking your car in a safe place. If you have a garage in your home, park it there. If there’s construction near your work, it’s worth parking your car a few blocks away and walking.