If you’re running late on a cold winter morning, ice on your windshield can slow you down. However—rather than rushing through the deicing process—it’s crucial to get rid of the ice properly, or you could wind up with cracked glass, requiring you to get a replacement windshield. Here are a few tips to help with the process, along with how to prevent ice from forming in the first place.

How to Prevent Ice

To stop ice from forming, spray the windshield nightly with a homemade vinegar or alcohol solution. For the former, use three parts vinegar to one part water. For the latter, combine two parts 70% isopropyl alcohol with one part water. Alternatively, you can use a commercial ice prevention spray.

Don’t store these solutions in your trunk, as they can freeze. Instead, keep them inside at room temperature.

How to Remove Ice

To quickly melt the ice from your windshield, use the same alcohol solution or a salt solution. Make the latter using water and a few teaspoons of table or road salt.

Both the alcohol solution and the salt solution deice your window via a chemical reaction. They also lower the freezing point of the water so it won’t refreeze.

When applying the solution, avoid spraying your car’s metal, as it can corrode the paint. After the ice has melted, gently wipe away any remaining chunks with an ice scraper, squeegee, or rag.

What to Avoid When Deicing

Never pour pure water on an icy windshield, whether the liquid is hot or cold. Hot water reacts with the ice and can crack your window. Cold water exacerbates the problem by freezing on contact, creating an extra layer of ice.

If you accidentally cause damage to your windshield during the deicing process, Genesee Glass & Mirror in Rochester, NY, will repair your car window or provide the glass for a replacement windshield. They offer a range of glass and mirror services. With its fleet of mobile vans, the company provides convenient on-site service. For more information about their replacement windshield glass or a quote, visit the website or call (585) 621-3580.