If your car windshield is covered in ice and snow, it could cause you to be late for work or miss an appointment. You might be tempted to resort to unique tactics to defrost the windshield so that you can get moving faster. While some DIY techniques can help, others can damage the glass. Here’s more information about how to defrost the windshield safely.

Do:

Make a homemade de-icer.

De-icing spray is one of the best ways to get the ice on the car windshield to melt. You can make it at home by using two parts of 70% isopropyl alcohol and one part water.

Since isopropyl alcohol freezes at -128.2°F, you don’t have to worry about it adhering to the windshield and making matters worse. Put this mixture in a spray bottle and place it in your car. Even in the cold, you won’t have to worry about it freezing, so you always have access to it.

Start your car first.

One way to defrost your car faster is to turn on your vehicle and put on the defroster. In about 10-15 minutes, your windshield should start to thaw without much manual labor. If the car door is frozen shut, pour cold or lukewarm water on the handle.

In addition to defrosting the windshield, turning on the car will also warm up the interior so that you have a comfortable drive. If you don’t like going out in the snow to start your car, use a remote car starter.

Don’t:

Pour water on your car windshield.

Never pour straight water on the vehicle’s windshield, no matter its temperature. Cold water will often simply freeze on the glass, making more ice that needs to be defrosted. Pouring hot water can crack the car windshield, resulting in the need for repairs.

Use a metal scraper.

You can buy metal ice scrapers at the store, and they might seem like the option that will be toughest on ice. However, metal scrapers can result in chips or cracks on your windshield.

Choose a plastic scraper with a soft brush on one end to remove stubborn ice. Even when you have a plastic scraper, don’t be too hard on your windshield.

For auto glass repair and replacement services, contact Flathead Glass Works in Kalispell, MT. Their team can perform a wide range of work, from fixing a small chip to replacing your windshield. They can work on personal or commercial vehicles, including cars, trucks, RVs, motorhomes, classic cars, and heavy machinery. Visit their website or call (406) 752-7870 to make an appointment today.