Hydrophobic car glass, as the name implies, is a glass that is handled in such a way that it repels water.
Hydrophobic Windshields are a relatively new feature in the automotive industry that requires two steps for creation. Firstly, a windshield glass is created normally, then a coating of hydrophobic is applied to make a hydrophobic windshield glass.
We’ve previously installed hydrophobic glass, and while it’s more expensive than regular windshield glass, some drivers like it. Below, we go over the basics of hydrophobic glass and how it works.
How Does Hydrophobic Glass Works?
Technically, the glass itself is not hydrophobic. Regular glass has a special coating that makes it Hydrophobic (Water-repellent). This coating helps the small water droplets of rain to gather into a larger droplet. This in turn quickly washes off the dust and dirt from the car glass.
This additional coating on the windshield glass makes it hard for the water to accumulate thereby quickly rolling down itself.
Treatment of Windshields with Hydrophobic Coatings
Maintaining a clean windshield can be a tedious effort for drivers, especially in locations where there is a lot of rain, muddy roads, and busy highways. Hydrophobic coatings are becoming increasingly popular as automobile owners look for efficient solutions to reduce window cleaning.
Although there are several sprays and chemicals available in the market today that promise to mimic the effect of hydrophobic glass, it is always better to have a professional hydrophobic coating on a new windshield glass. This makes the effect last longer.
One important thing to know about Hydrophobic car glass is that the treatment is not permanent. As exposed to wind, sun, and rain, the bond between the hydrophobic coating and glass weakens and wears off eventually. You will then have to get it reapplied. Also, if you experience any chips or cracks on the car windscreen, get the windshield repaired or replaced and then have your hydrophobic coating reapplied.
Advantages of Hydrophobic Car Glass
1. Maintenance-Free
Rainwater, dust, and other debris are difficult to disperse from untreated auto glass. Wiper blades are used excessively in locations where the weather is bad to clean the glass surface. Wiper blades wear out quickly with frequent use and must be changed. All of these factors can result in significant maintenance expenses.
A hydrophobic coating on a glass helps to push water into larger spherical droplets that scatter easily and swiftly across the glass, wiping dirt and other debris away. This helps to protect your windshield and decreases the need for wiper blades, lowering your maintenance expenditures.
2. Enhances security
The most significant benefit of hydrophobic car glass is the greater safety they provide due to its self-cleaning ability. These coatings provide auto glass the ability to clean itself by automatically removing water, debris, and dust through the hydrolysis process when properly applied. This aids in improving ocular clarity while driving in hazardous conditions, resulting in greater road safety.
Hydrophobic coatings are not only a clever idea but also a wise investment in terms of vehicle safety. It is highly recommended that you employ a professional to implement this windshield treatment for the finest results.
Is Hydrophobic Car Glass Worth The Cost?
Many individuals want to know if applying a hydrophobic coating to their windshield is worth the money. It all boils down to personal preference, but as with other things, the more money you spend, the better the result. Some treatments cost around $50 and can be purchased at your local auto centre or Walmart. In the short term, these coatings are good, but they will wear off faster than others.
You might upgrade to higher-quality coatings, which range from $75 to $200. These coatings will stay longer, but for the money, it’s usually better to get the procedure done by a professional. Mechanics perform this operation on a regular basis, and they’ll make sure it’s done correctly. Professionally placed treatments will almost certainly cost a little more, but they’ll last longer and you’ll know you’re receiving good service.