A scratched windshield is not just a nuisance; it can also result in serious car accidents if they’re not addressed immediately. Regardless of how insignificant you think the scratch is on your vehicle’s windshield, these small scratches can easily spread and obscure your vision while driving, especially when faced with direct sunlight or oncoming headlights at night.
The windshield plays a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of your car. It accounts for nearly 45% of the cabin’s strength during a head-on collision and up to 60% in the event of a rollover, safeguarding the vehicle’s interior and its occupants.
What causes windshield scratches?
According to Windshield specialists, there are several reasons why your vehicle’s windshield gets scratched, the most common cause of which is debris and small particles such as sand and dust. When these particles get caught between the windshield and the wiper blades, they can leave scratches as the wipers move across the glass.
Another cause of windshield scratches is the small stones and road debris that get flung by the tires of other vehicles, especially on high-speed roads or highways. These tiny projectiles can create chips and scratches on the glass surface.
Extreme weather conditions, including hailstorms or heavy snow, are also a factor. Regardless of how your windshield got scratched, it’s important to address them immediately.
Identifying the type of windshield scratch
Before repairing your scratched windshield, it’s important to determine what type of scratch you are dealing with. There are primarily two types of windshield scratches: surface-level scratches and deep scratches.
A surface scratch only affects the outermost layer of the glass. You can tell you have a surface scratch if it appears faint and can barely be felt with your fingernail. Another indicator is if the scratch diminishes or disappears when wet, as water temporarily fills the shallow groove, making it less visible.
On the other hand, you know you’re dealing with deeper scratches when you can easily feel them by running a fingernail across the glass surface. They’re also more visible in different types of lighting and can’t be masked with water or oils.
Fixing small scratches on your windshield
There are multiple ways you can fix scratches on your windshield, and some of these techniques can even be done using household items. Here are different ways on how you can remove scratches from your windshield:
Clear Nail Polish
Clear nail polish can act as a quick fix for small windshield scratches by filling in the gaps and sealing the surface. This temporary solution can improve the appearance of minor damage and protect the scratch from worsening until you visit your local auto glass repair shop.
After thoroughly cleaning your windshield, just apply a thin layer directly onto the scratch, being careful not to use too much. After letting it dry, remove any excess with nail polish remover.
Toothpaste or Baking Soda Paste
Toothpaste or baking soda paste, when used as a mild abrasive, can polish out small scratches from a windshield.
By mixing a small amount of water to create a paste and then rubbing it over the scratch in a circular motion, you can gradually diminish the scratch. It’s crucial to rinse the area well afterward.
Glass Repair Kit
A glass repair kit for windshields effectively addresses small scratches by filling them with a special resin. This resin is designed to mimic the optical properties of glass, thereby reducing the visibility of scratches. Here’s a general step-by-step guide on how to use a glass repair kit to fix small windshield scratches:
- Clean the Windshield: Thoroughly clean the area around the scratch with glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth.
- Apply the Resin: Insert the resin from the repair kit into the applicator and position it over the scratch.
- Use the Curing Strip: Place a curing strip over the resin-applied area to ensure an even application.
- Cure the Resin: Allow the resin to cure under direct sunlight or use a UV lamp if provided.
- Remove Excess Resin: After curing, peel off the curing strip and scrape away any excess resin with a razor blade provided in the kit.
- Polish: Finally, polish the repaired area with a clean cloth to restore clarity.
After taking steps to repair any windshield scratches using the methods outlined, consider evaluating your car’s value to get a comprehensive view of how maintenance impacts your vehicle’s market worth.
Getting professional help
It’s important to remember that DIY repairs are simply not enough, and they are just temporary solutions. To ensure the safety and longevity of your vehicle, seeking professional help for a thorough and lasting repair is advisable.
Auto glass experts have specialized knowledge and access to professional-grade materials to ensure that your windshield meets safety standards. They also provide warranties on their work, offering peace of mind that the repair is durable and reliable.
Additional tips on how to take care of your windshield
To maintain your vehicle’s structural integrity and keep your windshield clear, it’s important to adopt proactive measures to minimize scratches.
Regular cleaning with appropriate tools can prevent dirt and debris from causing abrasions. Using windshield wipers only when necessary and ensuring they’re always in good condition can also reduce scratch risks. Additionally, parking away from heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic can safeguard your windshield from accidental damage.
Keeping your windshield in good condition is not just for aesthetics, but it also plays a crucial role in ensuring your safety on the road.
