When was the last time you thought about your wiper blades? More than likely it was the last time they needed to be replaced or the last time it rained. Wipers play an important role in improving visibility while storms. Additionally, well-maintained wipers can help you avoid frequent windshield repair in Houston.
How Can My Wipers Cause Damage that Requires Windshield Repair in Houston?
While your windshield wipers can’t guard your auto glass from rocks and debris, well-kept wipers can prevent windshield repair in Houston by reducing small scratches and making it easier to see damage.
When the rubber edges of your wiper blades get damaged or worn out, they become abrasive, which can cause tiny scrapes and damages on your auto glass that may require windshield repair. Over time, these small surface scratches can start to make your windshield look foggy and affect your visibility while you drive. This is a serious safety concern.
Additionally, once the rubber blades wear out, the metal beneath may come in contact with your auto glass. This can cause deep scratches that windshield repair in Houston may not be able to correct. In these cases, you’ll likely have to replace your windshield instead.
Also, your wipers help keep your windshield clean, which may also help you prevent frequent windshield repair in Houston. A dirty windshield is more prone to small scratches that weaken the integrity of your windshield. Dirt and grime can also mask small damages that you need windshield repair in Houston for. Therefore, wipers play a pretty important role in the strength of your auto glass.
Windshield Repair in Houston for Wiper Blade Scratches
Proper wiper blade care is a great preventative measure you can take to avoid windshield repair in Houston. However, what happens if you don’t take these steps? In the end, you’ll likely need auto glass repair or replacement. Costs can quickly add up if you neglect your windshield wipers.
For superficial scratches from worn wiper blades, your auto glass technicians may be able to repair the damage by polishing your windshield. This can help you avoid the negative effects of scratched auto glass. However, deep scratches often can’t be repaired and will need windshield replacement in Houston.
In addition to being a safety hazard, a scratched windshield can also create other problems. If you replace your wiper blades but leave the scratches on your glass, the roughness from your windshield can actually wear out the blades more quickly. Therefore, it’s best to talk to your glass technician about the best course of action for your vehicle.
Wiper Blade Care Tips
Taking care of your wiper blades protects your windshield and extends the life of your wipers. To avoid frequent glass repair, you can take a few simple steps to properly care for your wiper blades.
Inspect your Wipers Frequently
Once the rubber wears out on your wiper blades, it can leave tiny scratches in the glass that can weaken your windshield and also make it harder to see through. Additionally, if you’re caught in a situation where you need your windshield wipers, worn blades can significantly impact your visibility. This can be a driving hazard. Taking a couple of moments to make sure your wipers are in good repair every few days or so helps you notice when they need to be replaced to avoid windshield repair in Houston. Do a quick visual inspection and run your finger along the rubber edge to determine if it’s time for replacements.
Park in the Shade
Heat and UV radiation from the sun can degrade the rubber edges on your wipers as well. Therefore, it’s best to avoid direct sun exposure whenever you can. Try parking in a garage or in the shade to help prevent premature wiper blade deterioration.
Top Off your Washer Fluid
Washer fluid serves a few pretty important purposes. First, it keeps your windshield clean. Second, it keeps the windshield wipers themselves clean between deep cleanings. Also, windshield wiper fluid allows you to remove dirt and debris from your windshield without running your wiper blades on a dry surface, which can have a similar effect to rubbing sand paper on your windshield. So, be sure you always have plenty of washer fluid in your car.
Clean your Wiper Blades
Dirt, debris, and grime build up and can deteriorate the rubber on your wiper blades, as well as increase the risk for windshield scratches that require repair. Be sure to clean your car at least twice a month, as well as specifically clean your wiper blades at least once a month to keep them clean and in good condition. This will help prevent dirt from scratching your windshield when you need to use your windshield wipers. Also, dirt and grime can degrade the rubber part of your blades more quickly, which means you’ll need replacements more frequently and are at a higher risk for auto glass damage.
Replace your Wiper Blades
Even with the most careful care and maintenance, your wiper blades will eventually wear out. When this happens, you should replace them to help prevent windshield damage. Generally, you should replace your blades at least once every six months. However, any time you notice they’re starting to look worn, be sure to replace your windshield wipers to avoid windshield damages and scratches. Remember, new wiper blades are cheaper than windshield repair in Houston or a complete replacement.
Another thing to keep in mind is that you need to get the right blades for your vehicle. Replacement windshield wipers come in a variety of sizes. In some cases, your car may need two different sizes to adequately clear moisture and debris from your windshield. Getting the wrong size can cause damages that require windshield repair in Houston and can also affect your visibility during poor weather. Therefore, remember to check your owner’s manual before purchasing new blades.
At Apple Glass Company, we provide auto glass repair and windshield replacement in Houston and The Woodlands. As Houston’s leading glass company, we offer the highest-quality glass services at affordable prices for your car, home, and business. From auto glass to Houston shower doors, our experts have the solutions you need at budget-friendly prices. Call us today at (713) 680-1400 to request a free quote or schedule auto glass repair services. We are here to serve you!