Maintaining And Protecting Your Auto Glass: The 411
Posted on: 20 October 2015
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Your car's windshields and windows are some of the most vulnerable parts of the vehicle. They are subject to being scratched and sullied by a variety of objects, such as rocks, pebbles, dirt and even insect bodies. Keeping your auto glass clean and protected from harm is not just about appearances; it's a safety issue as well. After all, if your windshield is dirty or scratched, your vision could be impaired while driving. Here is a closer look at how to keep your auto glass well maintained.
Cleaning
Cleaning your windshield regularly is an important part of vehicle maintenance. You don't want a dirty windshield to cause an accident. To clean the windshield properly, use water or cleaner made especially for auto glass. Avoid using household glass cleaners because many of these contain ammonia, which can harm areas of the car that contain vinyl, rubber, or plastic.
Use a microfiber towel to clean the glass. This material works better than standard towels or rags made out of old t-shirts, which typically leave streaks. A microfiber cloth does a better job of picking up dirt and other particles. They also do not contain any lint, so they will not leave anything behind on the windshield.
Polishing
Polishing your auto glass can remove scratches and other blemishes in your windows and windshield. Polish your auto glass only after you have cleaned it thoroughly. One good idea is to purchase a polishing kit. These are available at local auto parts stores. Typically, the process involves placing the polish on a pad attached to a drill. You can also use a rotary buffer instead. You then apply the polish to the windshield or window by moving the pad over the glass at a slow, even pace.
Tinting
Another way to protect your glass is to have it tinted. In addition to making it harder for someone to see into your vehicle, tinting can also strengthen the glass itself. For example, if your windshield is tinted, the tinted film could prevent your glass from shattering if it's struck by an object, such as a rock. This helps protect you and your passengers from flying pieces of glass in case of any unforeseen event.
Even if you maintain and protect your auto glass properly, accidents can still happen at any time. For serious issues with your windshield or windows, such as cracks and holes, contact a local auto glass replacement service.