While not all drivers go the extra mile to rainproof their windshield, it goes a long way regardless toward increasing a driver’s visibility and safety on the road. Buying quality rainproofing products for glass helps a lot by adding hydrophobic beading and then run-off, but rainproofing relies just as much on other factors too, specifically good windshield wiper blades, the frequency with which it’s done, and the overall technique. The real difference can be seen in how long the effect lasts. If you’re interested in the benefits of rainproofed windshields, check out the following steps, so you can better protect your car’s windshield.
Quality Wiper Blades
Many car manufacturers as well as manufacturers of rainproofing products speak to the significance of changing wiper blades as frequently as three or four times per year. So, try for wiper blades that provide uniform pressure and therefore make an even sweep, leaving no streaks where the blade failed to touch the glass. Drivers should not wait for the blade to start disintegrating since rainproofing products can’t do all the work for very long.
Frequency
The frequency with which a rainproofing product can last varies by the product, but it’s important to understand when each product runs out so drivers can reapply accordingly. For instance, Aquapel and Rain-X are often recommended, with Rain-X costing $20 compared to Aquapel’s $80 in a few markets. Some consumers complain that Rain-X doesn’t last especially long in the event of the wiper blades wearing down. The chemical barrier Aquapel offers is allegedly more resistant to worn down wipers, lasting roughly six or eight months instead of Rain-X’s four or six weeks. Carnuba wax is another option for longer rainproofing.
Technique
In terms of a rainproofing technique, there are several things to consider. First, drivers must make sure their windshield is dry and spotlessly clean before they apply a rainproofing product to guarantee performance and adherence. They should rinse the windshield and then clean it, using an ammonia-based cleaning product and a paper towel. Rinse thoroughly again, ensuring all the ammonia is washed off, and then dry using a microfiber towel.
From there, use the rainproofing product as its instructions direct. Many instructions say to use circular motions, but horizontal or vertical passes may prevent circle scratches, which could happen if something became caught in your towel. When the product is dry, buff or wipe with an unused microfiber towel. Rinse and dry again with another microfiber towel once the windshield has been cured for several hours.
In between future applications, clean the windshield with just water to avoid chemical cleansers cracking the rainproof seal. If the product is used right and maintained, bird deposits and bug splats should come off the glass without much effort. Inspect the wiper blades and the applied product regularly for wear.
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