Repairing a windscreen can be costly so it’s no wonder you want to keep it safe and protect it from harsh weather and damage.
Some people choose to add windscreen protection as an optional extra when they purchase car insurance in Northern Ireland and Great Britain. Luckily it is included as standard in our policies, but for others, it means spending money out-of-pocket for repairs.
Either way, it’s easy to take preventative measures to help protect your windscreen. Two common questions we get asked at Stroll Insurance are “How do I protect my windscreen from frost?” and “How do I protect my windscreen from chips?” That’s why we’ve put together this post with our favourite tips.
How to Protect Windscreen from Frost
1. Invest in a Car Windscreen Cover
If you’re wondering how to stop your windscreen from freezing during winter, then our first tip comes highly recommended. You can either purchase a windscreen ice cover or make one yourself. To make one, you can use a sheet that’s folded twice or rubber bathmats. If using a sheet, don’t forget to dry it fully before using it again.
Stay away from using newspaper as a windscreen protector as it can freeze to the glass and be difficult to remove.
2. Refrain from Reaching for the Kettle
Let’s be honest, we’ve all done it. You wake up late on a frosty morning and don’t have time to wait for the heaters, so you reach for the kettle.
By pouring boiling water on a frosted windscreen, the temperature on the glass goes from sub-zero to almost 100 degrees Celsius in a matter of seconds and increases the chance of cracks appearing.
Tip: Discover car maintenance checks you should do in winter.
3. Keep a De-Icer in Your Car
De-icers in a spray bottle are useful for melting ice and frost quickly. They are relatively cheap and can be purchased in most petrol stations. Simply spray some on your windscreen and use your windshield wipers to wipe away any residue.
If you don’t have a de-icer at hand, then household ingredients can be used as substitutes. Try a mix of salt and water solution or hand sanitiser. Rubbing alcohol can also help defrost your vehicle.
For more information on de-icers and homemade solutions, why not check out our useful guide on how to de-ice your car.
4. Use the Heat from Air Conditioning
This takes some time so it’s best to get out of bed early on a frosty morning if it’s your only option. Turning on the heat inside your car will help the ice on the outside to melt. Be sure that the vents are aimed at the windscreen.
Remember: Don’t leave your car unattended while it’s running. The winter months are a prime time for car thieves.
How to Protect Windscreen from Chips
5. Use a Paint Protection Film
You may already be using a protection film to protect the glass on your iPhone or Samsung, but did you know you can also use one to help prevent damage to your car windscreen?
Although it may be costly as the film is usually fitted in a garage, it’s definitely a lot cheaper than replacing a windscreen.
If you drive regularly in an area where there’s lots of construction or roadworks, then it’s a good idea to invest in film protection if you want to protect your car.
6. Keep Your Distance
This may seem obvious but it’s one of the best tricks for protecting your windscreen from chips and cracks. Not only does it protect you from a collision if the car in front has to stop suddenly, but it also prevents stones and debris on the road from being flicked onto your windscreen.
7. Park Your Car in a Safe Place
If you work or live near an area that’s under construction or near roadworks, then you should be parking your car in a safe place. If you have a garage in your home, park it there. If there’s construction near your work, it’s worth parking your car a few blocks away and walking.
