Summer vs. Winter Windshield Wipers

                Now that summer is coming to an end, the weather is starting to change away from the summer weather patterns.  In the northern states, it is starting to get cold and you know it is only a matter of time before the ice and snow starts interfering with daily driving. Some areas of the country may not require the use of different wiper blades as the weather does not change that drastically. 

                For those in the cold weather states, you may ask yourself, is there any measurable differences between the standard blades and those designed for winter?  The style of blade is the first difference between the two.  A beam blade is a solid piece rather than the traditional which has arms that extend down to the rubber portion.  The beam prevents build up of snow and slush which can cause your blades from functioning properly.  This style also has a piece of steel spring in the squeegee portion that keeps an even pressure across the windshield.  A final touch is the material that it is made of in comparison to standard wiper blades.  A synthetic rubber coated with a slippery substance like Teflon keeps these blades flexible even at lower temperature. 

                For the areas not affected by the grime of salt and snow it is important to check to see if there are any cracks, hardening, or wear in the rubber.  These can cause your blades to streak, skip, or squeak while in use making it more difficult to see outside of your vehicle as you drive.  It is important in both cold and warmer areas to ensure that your windshield wiper fluid is full so you can clean off the grime on the windshield.  A cleaner windshield helps the blades work better in all weather.  

About the Author: Patricia W is the owner and author of the blog Tricia's Treasures where she writes product reviews and more! Follow her on Facebook.