Blog Archives - North Auto Glass Barrie

Tips for Safeguarding Your Windshield While Driving

In addition to providing clear visibility, your vehicle’s windshield is also responsible for supporting the structural integrity of the car. It helps keep the roof from collapsing in a rollover accident and ensures the proper deployment of airbags during a collision.

Knowing how to shield your windshield from severe damage while driving is crucial to keeping your vehicle in top shape and guaranteeing the safety of everyone inside.

How To Avoid Rock Chips On Highway

One of the most common causes of windshield damage is the small rocks and debris kicked up by other vehicles, especially trucks. These objects can hit your windshield at high speeds, leading to chips or even cracks that compromise visibility and safety.

Here are some helpful tips on how to prevent rocks from hitting your windshield while driving:

Maintain a Safe Distance: One of the best ways to protect your windshield is by keeping a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, particularly if it’s a truck or a vehicle with large tires. Trucks and large vehicles tend to pick up and throw more debris, which can then strike your windshield at high speeds.

Drive in the Middle or Left Lane: The right lane is often a hotspot for road debris, including small rocks and gravel, particularly in areas near construction zones. Vehicles passing through can easily kick up this debris, which can then strike and damage your windshield. Opting for the middle or left lanes helps keep your vehicle away from these high-risk areas, minimizing your chances of encountering flying debris.

Avoid Construction Zones: Construction sites are notorious for being cluttered with loose gravel, rocks, and debris that can be propelled into the air by moving vehicles. This debris can inflict serious damage on your windshield, causing chips or cracks. To minimize the risk of windshield damage, choose alternate routes and avoid these areas.

Reduce Speed on Gravel Road: If you must drive on gravel roads or newly resurfaced highways, slow down to minimize the force with which rocks can be thrown against your windshield.

Use Mud Flaps and Splash Guards: Installing mud flaps and splash guards on your vehicle is a smart move to reduce the debris thrown up by your tires. These accessories help capture and deflect rocks, gravel, and other road debris, preventing them from flying into the air and causing damage to windshields.

Use Windshield Protection Products

Utilizing products that are specifically designed to protect windshields can be a great investment as this provides enhanced durability and resilience against common road hazards and extreme weather. Here are some products you can use to protect your windshield:

Protective Films: Protective films are transparent, adhesive materials applied directly to the surface of a windshield. They are specifically engineered to absorb the impacts from small rocks and debris that would otherwise cause chips and cracks. One of the main benefits of these films is that they provide a strong, invisible layer of protection without obstructing the driver’s view, ensuring safety and clarity while driving.

Nano Coatings: Nano coatings are specialized liquid solutions containing nanoparticles that bond with the surface of your windshield, forming a hydrophobic and impact-resistant layer. This layer repels water and minimizes damage from debris, significantly improving visibility during rain and helping to prevent chips and cracks from small rocks and other road debris.

Windshield Shields: Windshield shields are designed as removable, flexible screens that are placed on the exterior of the windshield. These shields function by acting as a protective barrier against larger debris and harsh weather conditions, such as hail and severe storms. One of the key benefits of windshield shields is their versatility; they can be easily removed and replaced as needed, providing temporary but effective protection.

Polycarbonate Windshield Covers: Polycarbonate windshield covers are durable, and clear plastic layers are installed over your windshield. They offer strong protection against impacts, reducing the likelihood of cracks and chips from road debris. These covers are known for their long-lasting durability but usually need professional installation for a perfect fit.

Hydrophobic Treatments: If you prefer to keep your windshield low maintenance and hassle-free, applying a hydrophobic treatment is a great option. By reducing the adhesion of water, dirt, and debris, these treatments ensure that such particles are less likely to stick and cause damage. Additionally, these treatments offer a minor protective layer that can help reduce the risk of damage from small impacts, ensuring a clearer and more durable windshield.

What To Do If A Rock Hits Your Windshield While Driving

Although it’s inevitable for rocks and other road debris to hit your windshield while driving, if a significantly larger object strikes your windshield, it can result in considerable damage. This can compromise your visibility and the structural integrity of your vehicle.

If you’re dealing with a major chip or crack while driving on the road, it’s important that you stay calm and pull over safely. After pulling over, carefully inspect the damage to assess its severity. If the crack is obstructing your view or appears to be spreading, it’s essential to contact a professional auto glass repair service immediately to prevent further damage and ensure your safety.

Consulting auto glass professionals immediately after sustaining a chip or a crack can prevent the damage from spreading, saving you the expense and inconvenience of a full windshield replacement.

Auto glass professionals have the expertise and tools to perform accurate repairs, ensuring the structural integrity and clarity of your windshield are maintained. This also helps preserve the functionality of your vehicle’s safety features, such as airbags, which depend on a solid windshield. Additionally, prompt repairs ensure optimal visibility, enhancing your safety on the road.

At North Auto Glass, we provide affordable windshield repair and replacements. Our certified technicians can handle any make and model, and we offer up to 100% deductible waivers on insurance claims. Reach out to us today for a personalized quote for your auto glass service.

Can Scratched Windshields Be Restored? Explore Expert Tips

Regardless of the size of your windshield scratch, it’s crucial that you immediately address it. Driving with a scratched windshield not only compromises your visibility but also weakens the glass’s overall structural integrity

Over time, even minor scratches can develop into larger cracks, especially when exposed to fluctuating temperatures and road vibrations. By fixing scratches on your windshield as soon as they appear, you avoid unnecessary stress on the windshield that can lead to more severe damage. Additionally, this helps improve passenger safety.

However, some car owners are hesitant to repair a scratched windshield, especially if it’s minor, as they are concerned about the costs of a windshield replacement.

At North Auto Glass, our windshield experts have extensive experience dealing with windshield scratches that have become major cracks. We understand how minor imperfections can escalate into significant damage if not addressed promptly.

Here are some helpful tips from our experts on the best methods to repair minor scratches and advice on when to get professional help.

When to Fix It Yourself and When to Call a Pro

Although it’s widely known that minor scratches can be fixed through DIY methods while major ones require professional attention, some car owners may have difficulty distinguishing between the two.

Often, if you notice your fingernails catching on your windshield’s scratch, then you are most likely dealing with a major scratch which requires the expertise of an auto glass technician to be effectively repaired.

A minor windshield scratch usually feels smooth when you run your finger along the area and should not be caught in a cleaning cloth or dragged when using a squeegee. These types of scratches are generally easy to address with a simple DIY repair technique.

Expert Tips for Restoring Minor Scratches on Windshields

After assessing the damage, cleaning your windshield, and confirming that the scratch is only minor, you can perform a variety of DIY repairs to maintain the integrity of your windshield. Here are some DIY methods you can do to fix your windshield glass.

1. The Nail Polish Method

This method is only effective for small, shallow scratches that are limited to the surface layer of the windshield. It only provides a quick and temporary solution to improve your windshield’s appearance.

Begin by applying a thin layer of clear nail polish along the length of the scratch, ensuring it penetrates the scratch fully. Allow the nail polish to dry completely, which typically takes a few minutes. Once dry, use a microfiber cloth with a small amount of nail polish remover to carefully clean the area around the scratch, removing any excess polish without disturbing the polish within the scratch.

2. Glass Repair Kit

For a more effective DIY repair, consider using a glass repair kit. These kits usually come with a resin, applicator, and curing strips. The resin is designed to fill in the chip or scratch, while the applicator allows for easy and precise application.

These repair kits usually come with a set of instructions that you can follow. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and make sure to allow the resin to cure fully before touching or driving the car. This will ensure that the repair is solid and the glass remains clear and safe.

3. Cerium Oxide Paste

If you’re wondering how to remove wiper scratches from your windshield, then using cerium oxide serves as a great option. Its fine abrasive qualities allow it to polish away the imperfections, leaving the windshield clear and smooth.

This method is particularly useful for scratches that are too deep for simpler DIY solutions but not severe enough to require professional repair.

Combine cerium oxide powder with water to form a paste and apply it to the scratch. Use a felt polishing wheel attached to a drill to gently buff the area in a circular motion. After buffing, clean the surface with a microfiber cloth.

Can You Buff Out Scratches On Windshield?

A common question car owners ask is whether it’s possible to buff out scratches on a windshield. The short answer is yes. However, this method is only effective for minor or surface-level scratches.

Using the right materials and techniques, such as a glass polishing kit or cerium oxide paste, you can effectively remove these imperfections. It’s important to thoroughly clean the windshield first to prevent further scratching.

Common Causes of Windshield Scratches and How to Avoid Them

Worn-Out Wiper Blades

Windshield scratches are actually quite easy to avoid. Here are some common reasons why your windshield gets scratched and how to effectively prevent them:

Although wiper blades are designed to keep your windshield clean and clear, failing to replace them regularly can lead to scratches. Over time, the rubber on the blades wears down, exposing hard plastic or metal components that can damage the glass. Replacing your wiper blades every 6-12 months helps ensure they remain effective and prevent unnecessary scratches.

Neglecting Regular Maintenance

Over time, dirt, dust, and grime can accumulate on your windshield. Neglecting to clean it regularly can lead to scratches when wipers or other objects drag these particles across the glass.

To maintain clear visibility and prevent scratches, it’s recommended to clean your windshield weekly. If you drive frequently or live in an area with heavy pollution, you may need to clean your windshield more often.

Improper Cleaning Techniques

No matter how often you clean your windshield, if you are using the wrong tools and applying the incorrect techniques, your auto glass will still be prone to scratches. Using abrasive materials, like paper towels or rough sponges, can damage the glass surface. Always use a soft microfiber cloth and a gentle glass cleaner to ensure a scratch-free windshield.

Road Debris

One of the most common causes of windshield scratches is road debris. Small stones, gravel, and other particles kicked up by other vehicles can strike your windshield, leading to scratches or even cracks.

To avoid this, always maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, especially on gravel roads where loose debris is prevalent. Installing a windshield protective film can also be a proactive measure. This film helps shield your windshield from the impact of debris, preserving its clarity and integrity.

Need a Windshield Expert? Contact North Auto Glass Today

Maintaining your windshield is a key part of keeping your vehicle in optimal condition and ensuring your safety. A part of windshield maintenance and immediately addressing minor cracks and chips.

However, for major windshield damage, contact our windshield experts at North Auto Glass today. We will provide a thorough assessment and offer professional repair or replacement services to ensure your windshield is restored to its original condition.

We also provide convenient mobile auto glass repair and replacement services, ensuring that you receive top-quality care wherever you are in Barrie.

Quick and Easy Ways to Defrost Your Windshield

Dealing with a frosty windshield can be extremely frustrating, especially when you’re in a rush to go to work or drop the kids off at school on time.

Some car owners make the mistake of pouring hot water on the windshield to speed up the defrosting process, causing the glass to crack due to abrupt temperature changes. Using metal scrapers or other abrasive tools can also scratch or damage the glass, leading to costly repairs or reduced visibility.

Windshields frost up during the winter months primarily due to condensation and subfreezing temperatures. When the moist air inside your car meets the cold surface of the windshield, the water vapour condenses and freezes upon contact. Overnight, as temperatures drop further, this condensation turns into frost.

Knowing how to defrost a windshield promptly and properly is vital as it ensures maximum visibility, which is crucial for safe driving. Using inappropriate methods for defrosting can lead to cracks or scratches, which may necessitate costly repairs or replacements and can also potentially endanger you while driving.

Here are some of the easiest, safest, and fastest ways to defrost a windshield:

1. Using a Commercial de-Icer Spray

Commercial de-Icer sprays are typically readily available in automotive stores and are relatively easy to use. Most sprays come with easy-to-follow instructions for effective application, making them ideal for quick and efficient ice removal during the winter months.

The active chemicals in de-Icer sprays, such as ethylene glycol or propylene glycol, lower the freezing point of water, causing the ice and frost to melt rapidly. It’s important to spray the de-Icer evenly across the entire surface and wait a few minutes to allow the chemicals to penetrate and weaken the ice’s structure.

Make sure to use a plastic scraper or your vehicle’s windshield wipers to remove the melted frost once the ice has loosened. For the best results, start at the top of the windshield and work your way down, pushing the melted ice and fluid off the glass.

2. Creating Your Own Homemade de-icing Solution

If you’re not fond of commercial de-icing sprays, you can also opt to create your own homemade de-icing solution. Here are two homemade de-icing solutions you can try:

Vinegar and Water de-icing Solution

Combine three parts vinegar with one part water to form an eco-friendly de-icing spray. Thanks to the vinegar’s high acidity, it can drastically reduce the freezing point of water on your windshield, effectively melting the ice. Simply fill a spray bottle and apply generously.

Rubbing Alcohol and Water Solution

Similar to vinegar, alcohol can also significantly lower the freezing point of water, prevent re-freezing, and quickly thaw ice upon application. To make the solution, simply mix two parts rubbing alcohol with one part water for a rapid de-ice effect. Liberally spray it onto your frosted windshield, and it will start working in a few seconds!

3. Do the Warm Water Method

Although it is highly discouraged that you pour boiling water onto your frosted windshield, using lukewarm water, on the other hand, offers a quick and less risky way to deal with the frost.

Start by ensuring the water is only warm to the touch to prevent thermal shock that can crack the windshield. Pour this water evenly across the icy surface, allowing it to weaken the bond between the ice and the glass.

Quickly follow up with a scraper or squeegee to clear away the melting frost before it refreezes. If the ice is thick or the ambient temperature is very low, you may need to apply the lukewarm water a second time. Make sure to dry the windshield with a soft cloth to ensure no leftover water freezes back onto the glass.

4. Use Plastic Ice Scrapers

Ice scrapers made from sturdy plastic are designed to break through ice gently enough not to scratch your windshield. When removing ice from a windshield with a plastic ice scraper, start from the top, where ice is generally thinner, and work your way down, using firm, even strokes.

This approach helps efficiently break and lift the ice off the glass. Ensure you cover the entire windshield to maintain clear visibility and finish by using your car’s wipers and washer fluid to remove any leftover ice or frost.

5. Adjust Your Car’s Defrost Settings

Another efficient way to defrost your vehicle’s windshield is by optimizing your car’s defrost settings. Simply turn on the defrost setting to high, allowing the engine-generated heat to warm the air directed onto the glass.

It’s crucial to let the defrost system run for about five to ten minutes to ensure thorough melting of the ice and to warm up the car’s interior. Keep an eye on the process and adjust the time if the ice is particularly thick. Manually remove the loosened ice with an ice scraper, which can help speed up the process and ensure a completely clear windshield.

How to Prevent Frost-Buildup

Of course, it’s also important to know how to maintain your windshield during the cold winter months to avoid frost buildup so you don’t have to go through the hassle of defrosting them every time you need to drive. Here are some additional tips on how to prevent frost buildup on your windshield.

Park in a Covered Area

By parking your vehicle in a garage or using a covered space, you shield the windshield from direct exposure to cold air and moisture, which are primary factors in frost formation.

This not only saves time in the morning, as there’s less or no frost to scrape off but also helps preserve the integrity of your windshield by reducing exposure to harsh winter conditions.

Cover Your Windshield Wipers

Using socks or small plastic bags to cover your windshield wipers overnight is a handy winter hack. This method acts as a barrier against moisture and freezing temperatures, ensuring that the wipers remain flexible and functional.

Simply slip a sock or plastic bag over each wiper blade and secure it with a rubber band or similar fastener to keep it in place. This not only protects the rubber on the wipers from becoming brittle and cracking but also makes it easier to start your drive without having to first pry the wipers from the glass.

Use Thermal Windshield Covers

Thermal windshield covers are specifically designed with insulating materials that effectively keep the cold air and moisture away from the glass surface. By using a thermal cover overnight during frosty weather, you create a barrier that prevents ice from directly forming on the windshield.

These thermal windshield covers are relatively easy to use and remove, making it a convenient and efficient solution for maintaining visibility and reducing the wear and tear on your car’s defrosting system.

Have Auto Glass Experts Regularly Inspect Your Windshield

The integrity of your windshield can easily be compromised, especially during extreme weather, as severe cold or heat stresses the glass, making it more susceptible to debris or thermal shock damage.

Having it regularly checked by auto glass professionals for any signs of damage is vital in maintaining your safety on the road. Even small cracks can quickly worsen and impair visibility, making timely repairs crucial.

The experienced windshield professionals at North Auto Glass provide expert windshield repair and replacement services at cost-effective prices. Whether dealing with minor chips or major cracks, our skilled technicians are equipped to handle a wide range of windshield issues efficiently.

A Guide On How To Clean Your Windshield

Maintaining a car windshield that looks
spick and span is something that many of us struggle with on a day-to-day
basis. Between hectic workweeks, a plethora of errands to run, and/or rowdy
kids to attend to, keeping up a clean windshield more often than not gets
pushed to the bottom of the to-do list. Given the fact that having a clear
field of vision is essential to safe driving, this is a major cause for
concern. If you’ve ever let the dirt and grime on your car windshield get out
of hand, that will no longer be the case after today. Here’s everything you
need to know about how you can easily clean your car windshield!

Why You Should
Keep Your Car Windshield Clean

Before getting into the nitty-gritty details
on all things windshield cleaning related, it’s important first to establish
why keeping your windshield clean is well worth the extra time. The most
obvious reason to keep your car windshield clean is for safety purposes. You
can only have a clear view of the road and, in turn, an awareness of what’s
going on with other vehicles and pedestrians if your windshield is free of any
unwanted elements.

Another good reason to maintain a clean car
windshield is that cleaning your windshield increases the longevity of it.
Dirty windshields are prone to getting damaged by small cracks or chips. These
cracks can spread and get even larger if they are left to their own
accord.

Cleaning The Exterior
of Windshields

The exterior of your windshield is
definitely the part that bears the brunt of all the dirt, debris, and bird
droppings. As the car’s protecting agent, the outside of your windshield should
be regularly cleaned. Here are some of the best ways to get rid of common problems
that affect the exterior side of windshields:

Microfiber Towels: Microfiber towels are great at getting rid of streaks because of their tight weave. Simply dampen your microfiber towel, fold the cloth, and wipe your windshield down in a single motion.
Detailing Clay: To get rid of stubborn stains that don’t want to budge, invest in some detailing clay. This elastic compound can get into small crevices that are invisible to the human eye. Work the detailing clay into small sections of your windshield and clean in a back and forth motion.
Newspaper and Cleaning Solution: Sometimes turning to old cleaning solutions is all it takes, and newspaper is a tried-and-true method of windshield cleaning. The ink and paper are a light abrasive that effectively remove dirt and grime. Squirt the cleaning solution of your choice and wipe down your windshield in circular motions until it’s spotless.

Cleaning The Interior
of Windshields

The inside of your windshield may not get
as dirty as the outside, but that doesn’t mean you can skip cleaning it altogether.
The thin layer of grime that accumulates on the interior of your windshield
over time can also reduce your visibility while driving. Here are a few of the
best ways to clean your windshield’s interior:

Paper Towel and an Alcohol-Based Cleaner: Alcohol-based cleaner that’s free of ammonia is a great liquid to use to loosen grease and grime from your windshield. Grab some paper towel and scrub the alcohol-based cleaner around until your windshield is dry to the touch.
Magic Erasers: Magic Erasers are great at getting rid of build-up on the inside of windows and can remove even the toughest stuck-on residue. Spray your Magic Eraser with a bit of water, then gently wipe your windshield to get rid of grime. Once all the residue has been removed, use a damp cloth to get rid of chemicals the Magic Eraser may have left behind.

Whatever your preferred method of cleaning
your windshield is, all that really matters is that you don’t let it get to the
point where it interferes with your ability to drive. That being said, the
cracks and chips in your windshield can also hinder your ability to drive, and
they should be taken care of sooner rather than later. At North
Auto Glass, we specialize windshield repairs
and windshield
replacements. No matter the type of vehicle you have, our auto glass
experts can make your windshield as good as new. Contact us today to get a free quote!

How to Defog Windshield: The Ultimate Guide

Having to deal with a foggy windshield is something every driver has encountered at one point or another, and when wintertime rolls around this problem becomes a persistent one for Canadians. Not only are foggy windows annoying to deal with, but they are also a safety hazard that needs to be dealt with swiftly in order to have an unobstructed view of the road. Thankfully, clearing foggy car windshields is something car experts have down to a science and today we’re going to be going over everything you need to know about how to defog your windshield.

Why Windshields Fog in the Winter

The fog that forms on a windshield is actually water vapour that has condensed on the inside of the glass. This phenomenon can occur in both warm and cold climates and it takes place when water vapour in the air falls below or above dew point, the atmospheric temperature at which dew droplets form. In winter specifically, this tends to happen when the temperature inside your car is warmer than the outside. The inside of your car becomes much more humid than the outside due to your body heat and moisture from your breath, while the air outside is much drier. These opposing states create the perfect condition for moisture to condense on your windshield and fog to form.

How to Keep Windshield from Fogging

There are a few preventative measures you can take to stop your windows from fogging in the first place:

· Stomp off the snow on your boots: Any moisture that makes its way into your car will turn into condensation once dew point hits so try to minimize the amount that gets inside.

· Keep your windows clean: Frequently giving your windshield a good wipe down will reduce the amount of dust and oil that water can cling to and prevent the glass from steaming up.

· Dehumidifier: A car dehumidifier works wonders when it comes to removing moisture from the air and minimizing the amount of fog that forms.

· Anti-fog coating: This handy treatment reduces the surface tension of water droplets and effectively disperses them into an invisible thin sheet that’s fog-free.

How to Defog Windshield

There’s nothing worse than walking out to your car in the morning only to discover the windshield is already completely fogged up, especially if you’re crunched for time. Here are the steps you should take to defog your windshield as quickly as possible:

1. Crank the heat: Put the heat on its maximum setting. Hot air can hold more moisture than cool air.

2. Turn on the AC: As the cool air passes over the cooling coils, it will pull moisture from the air.

3. Turn off the recirculation button: This will allow colder, dryer air to be brought inside your car.

4. Crack your windows: If your windows aren’t frozen shut, crack them a bit so that some of the humid air inside your car can be exchanged for the dryer air outside.

How to Clean Windshield Haze

If you still can’t see clearly out of your window after you’ve tackled all the frost on it – you probably have windshield haze. Windshield haze is a buildup of smoke residue that can be caused by pollutants in the environment and/or your car’s engine. To get rid of haze on your car’s windshield, do the following:

1. Mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.

2. Put towels over your dashboard to prevent drips from the solution from getting on it.

3. Spray the inside of your windshield with the vinegar mixture.

4. Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe your windshield clean.

Putting these tips and tricks into practice is a surefire way to keep your windshield free of fog and other elements that reduce your ability to see clearly. With one less thing to worry about, driving this winter will be much more enjoyable!

Why North Auto Glass

North York Auto Glass is a locally-owned auto glass shop that offers the most affordable windshield repairs and windshield replacements in the region. Our certified auto glass technicians can fix windshield issues on all vehicle makes and models and we waive up to 100% of your insurance deductible. Contact us today to get the best of the best auto glass repair and auto glass replacement services!

If you live in Oakville, Ontario, and are looking for a windshield replacement company in Oakville, then Auto Glass Zone Oakville can be of great assistance to you if you are in need of a replacement windshield for your vehicle.