Improperly defrosting your car’s windshield can create cracks and chips, leading to unnecessary glass and window repair. To avoid needing automotive glass replacement, you should follow the correct procedures to get your car ready during the winter. Genesee Glass & Mirror in Rochester, NY, shares the following guidelines to keep your windshield frost-free and intact.

How to Defrost Your Windshield Without Damaging It

Turn the Heater On

By gradually warming your windshield, you’ll cause the underlayer of ice to melt and detach from the glass. After you start your car, turn your heater onto the highest fan setting and choose the defrost function so that air hits the windshield directly. You may be tempted to use hot water, but this can cause it to shatter, requiring immediate glass and window repair.

Open the Vents and Windows

Even though it may seem counterintuitive, allowing fresh air to circulate throughout the car will defrost your windshield more effectively. Since cold air is dry, it will remove ice faster than air with moisture. Open the circulation vent instead of recycling air and crack the windows an inch or so. 

Scrape the Windshield

While the heater is on and the fan is circulating dry air, you can speed up the process by hand scraping your windshield from the outside. Use a plastic scraper and look for spots that are melting. If you can start chipping away at the ice by focusing on these weak areas, it will go much faster. It may be tempting to tap at weak spots or use alternative tools, such as a spatula or a knife, but doing so can create chips or scratches in the windshield. 

This winter, it’s important that you follow these steps to defrost your windows and avoid glass and window repair. If you do find yourself in need of a replacement windshield, however, the team at Genesee Glass & Mirror in Rochester can help. Their specialists have provided excellent services to the area for over 40 years. To learn more or to schedule your glass and window repair, visit them online or call (585) 621-3580.