In the operation of a modern car, passive safety is not an empty phrase. The aspect has many components, where one of the basic components is the view from the car interior. Anti-rain makes it possible to improve the latter factor in damp or wet weather, as well as to make it easier to clear the glass of ice in cold weather. For this reason, many car owners ask questions about how to apply anti-rain correctly, in what sequence and which one is best to use.
Water-reflective anti-rain coating on glass can work, but you need to know how to use it
“Miracle cure”, “apply and order” - these or similar slogans fly into our ears and eyes from TV and computer screens. Do you know why? People want this, even though deep down they understand perfectly well that fairy tales only exist in books.
One such car cosmetic product can be called a water-reflective coating, also known as “invisible”, or more common in Russia as “anti-rain”. Some people praise him, others criticize him. And judging by the reviews, it’s also impossible to say for sure that it doesn’t work. The controversial solution shows good results when first applied to glass, but for some reason the next time it stops showing brilliant results in rainy weather. Perhaps a product like “invisible windshield wiper” and similar ones should be used in some other way? Let's take a closer look at this from different angles.
Glass washing
The main requirement that all manufacturers of hydrophobic compounds make is application to a clean and dry surface.
Therefore, the first step is to wash the glass from the outside. To do this, it is better to use shampoos that do not contain silicone or other additives. It will be difficult to remove them from the surface of the glass.
It is better to dry the glass with air, a lint-free cloth or a special chamois leather.
How does anti-rain car cosmetics work?
An invisible wiper is nothing more than a hydrophobic coating that you apply to the glass. The roots of this solution go back to motorsport, particularly racing, where the hydrophobic effect (the effect of water not sticking to a surface) is very important on drivers' helmets and on the windshields of racing cars.
In the automotive sector, the hydrophobic effect, which is achieved using a film invisible to the eye, leads to the fact that when a certain speed is reached, water rolls off the glass without the need for mechanical wipers. Rain accumulates in the form of large drops, which are blown away by the incoming air flow, leaving behind a transparent surface without streaks and small drops or marks.
Benefits of using a water repellent
- improved visibility while driving in the rain or snow - drops quickly roll off the glass and mirrors, without forming streaks and stains of water and dirt;
- easy cleaning of glass from dust, dirt and traces of insects, especially after long country trips;
- preventing glass from icing in winter;
- increasing the efficiency of the windshield wiper blades - they clean the windshield from dust and other contaminants faster and better;
- reduced wear of wipers - the treated surface generally does not require their use;
- saving on windshield washer fluid - practically no dirt settles on the glass;
- keeping the car body clean - the product is also used to treat the body, preventing dust and dirt from settling.
ON A NOTE!
When applied correctly, high-quality products form a stable water-repellent film that will “work” effectively for several months.
Why are opinions about the product divided?
Some are happy with the result, others are not. Why is this happening? There are several reasons for this:
1. Much depends on the choice of the product and its chemical properties to create a water-repellent surface.
2. The shape and condition of the glass is important. Old weathered windshields with chips, streaks from brushes, multiple scratches and abrasions will not allow you to achieve the expected effect.
3. A chemical windshield wiper will not appeal to anyone who thinks that when using it you will not have to turn on regular wipers - this is a mistake.
By following three rules, you can calculate whether you need this chemical. the product and whether it is suitable for your purposes.
Rating of the best funds
Below is a rating of anti-rain products that are the best in their class. The list is compiled based on popularity statistics on the Russian market.
Grass
A popular spray product. Designed for use on windshields that do not have their own cleaning system. The manufacturer claims that the liquid can be used on motorcycle helmet visors, glass surfaces and automotive optics.
The popularity of the product is due to the ease of application, the duration of the effect, and the provision of good visibility during rain.
Additionally, reliable protection is formed against the adhesion of insects, salt, bitumen stains, as well as wood glue, which is especially important in the spring.
When applied correctly, there are no streaks, drips or iridescent films left on the glass.
The positive effect lasts for 3–4 weeks, depending on the conditions.
Available in containers of 250–500 ml.
The composition is toxic, it is forbidden to inhale vapors or swallow.
Aquapel
Next in line is a popular model presented to the public in the form of an applicator. The gel filler of the plastic capsule is designed for several uses.
The popularity of the device is due to its convenient design, which makes it as easy as possible to apply it to glass.
The use of advanced technologies makes it possible to create a thin film on the glass surface that fills roughness, forming a perfectly smooth coating.
The product also has some disadvantages - a huge number of fakes. Therefore, it is recommended to buy the product exclusively from authorized dealers.
The average price tag fluctuates at 1,490 rubles.
Ombrello
A world leader in its specific work. German quality has a positive effect on the final result.
Users like the longevity of use and the formula’s resistance to abrasion and wear. Thanks to well-chosen components of the composition, there is a complete absence of oil film and the effect of glass glare under oncoming headlights.
One portion of anti-rain is designed for 10 months of sustainable effect. After which there is a need for re-application.
The main factor for the duration of use is correct application. It is very important to read the instructions first.
TurtleWax
Or in common parlance – anti-rain “turtle”, “tortilla”.
The hydrophobic composition has proven itself well on the Russian market. The second advantage is the extremely affordable cost - about 300 rubles.
Users also appreciate the ease of application - following simple instructions, you can do everything yourself.
The main characteristics of the composition make it possible to effectively discharge water while the vehicle is moving over 50 km/h.
The disadvantages are the short service life - one application can provide up to 2 months of operation. Then the procedure must be repeated.
Glaco
The durability of this drug amazes many car enthusiasts. Some buyers leave comments regarding the minimum cost of reprocessing. Glaco only needs to be applied three times a year to ensure the hydrophobic film provides clear vision of the road during rain, snow or night. Side mirrors are cleaned every six months.
Japanese technologies are being introduced here with all their might. The drug is applied to dry and damp surfaces.
The only downside is the complete lack of effect at speeds below 60 km/h.
The minus is fully compensated by the duration of operation and affordable cost - no more than 550 rubles.
Nanoprotech – super anti-rain
According to the manufacturer, the product is the best solution for everyday use.
The unique development creates an invisible film on the glass after application. The technology forms the smallest honeycombs, which makes it easier for water to roll into a drop without spreading. Excellent resistance to mechanical destruction - dried liquid is not wiped off by wipers when dirt or sand gets in.
Users are pleased with the sufficient stability, guaranteeing up to 6 months of preservation of properties. Also, washer savings are a pleasant bonus - according to rough calculations, windshield washer consumption is reduced by five times.
Some users complain about the high cost of the drug - one bottle is designed for 2 glasses.
Liqui Moly
The unique Fix-Klar Regenabweiser is a product developed by German engineers to provide a water-repellent effect on car windows, motorcycle helmets and ski masks.
The formula is developed using a unique technology that ensures long service life, cost-effectiveness and ease of application.
Users are pleased with the operating time and efficiency. There are complaints about high price tags from the manufacturer - a small bottle with a capacity of 125 ml costs approximately 800 rubles.
Liquid crystal
A universal anti-rain product that provides excellent visibility on the road during rain and snow. The German formula provides excellent hydrophobic efficiency due to the formation of a contact angle between the drops and the glass of about 120 degrees - this ensures that the substance flows easily.
The composition can be applied to the visors of motorcycle helmets, windshields, mirrors and car headlights. It is noteworthy that the components of the product are non-toxic, so it can be safely used without fear of harmful effects on the human body.
Also, after application, the glass ceases to react critically to frost, which saves a lot of time on warming up the interior in winter.
Consumers consider the only drawback to be the high cost - about 1,400 rubles. But this is completely offset by the duration of use of one spray of up to one year.
Important! The composition does not contain aggressive chemical components - this allows for trouble-free application to plastics, varnishes, and paints.
How to use water-reflective auto chemicals correctly?
Video taken from YouTube channel Andrey Kurochka
One example of applying the product.
Clean the glass before applying. But clean glass is not everything. It should be well fat-free. Some include a special cleaning agent in the package or kit. Others recommend additional surface preparation products. But most often it is enough to simply wash the glass with regular window cleaner and use isopropyl alcohol to degrease.
Important: The product should always be applied according to the packaging instructions; there is no one-size-fits-all method. Use special applicators included in kits or materials recommended by the manufacturer. The method of administration of the drug is also important. Following the manufacturer's recommendations gives maximum effect, and only after appropriate use can the product be rated on the usage scale.
Surface degreasing
Clean glass should be degreased. Most auto chemical manufacturers have their own proprietary products for performing this procedure. However, degreasing with an alcohol solution will give an equally high-quality result.
This procedure should only be performed on dry glass. The degreaser should not just be sprayed over its surface, but carefully and evenly distributed over the entire area. To do this, use a clean and dry napkin made of natural fabric.
Is it worth buying an invisible wiper?
In our opinion, it makes sense to use an invisible wiper on side windows, mirrors or headlights. A windshield equipped with conventional moisture removal elements does not require any additions. Instead of using anti-rain, it is better to clean the glass from time to time. Check the condition of the windshield wiper blades and replace them if their performance deteriorates. It's cheaper, better and safer.
Still, an invisible wiper is a good solution for drivers who often drive on highways at speeds of 100 km/h or more. At high speeds, conventional wipers do not always do a good job, but the hydrophobic coating at this speed practically eliminates the need to turn on the wipers.
Effect after application
What effect
Do not believe advertising that says that after applying anti-rain you will not use wipers. Of course, you will use windshield wipers, but much less often and only outside the city. The fact is that this effect of self-removal of water droplets from the windshield is noticeable only at speeds of more than 80 kilometers per hour. For example, on the highway in the rain you will actually have to use the wipers less often. But in the city, with traffic lights and traffic jams, the anti-rain effect will be invisible. The advertisement also says that it is worth applying anti-rain to the front side windows. In practice, this method has not proven effective and most specialized service stations have stopped offering the application of anti-rain on side windows.
Recommendations
Rain drops, which are formed by round balls of an even structure, will help determine whether there is sufficient coverage on the glass. If you notice that they are acquiring the wrong configuration, this indicates that the tool is insufficient or it is time to upgrade it.
Before starting a trip in winter, it is worth covering your car with anti-rain, which will protect against the formation of ice and freezing of the glass from ice particles.
It is better to apply the product in cool weather; it is not permissible to do this under the scorching rays of the sun. If it's too hot outside, you can move the car into the shade, giving the windshield some time to cool. This way it will be easier to get rid of the excess amount of product applied.
Under no circumstances should you skip the re-rubbing step. After returning from another trip, you need to wipe the wipers and glass clean. If you notice that the anti-rain has stopped working, you should remove the remaining residue with a paper napkin.
If you additionally coat the side windows of the vehicle with the product, overall visibility increases, also in the rear view mirrors.
By the way, the work of the wipers accelerates the process of wear of the applied layer of film.
What is anti-rain
Anti-rain is a special product that is applied to the surface of the glass and creates a water-repellent effect. The photo clearly shows the difference in the visibility from inside the car through the windshield with the use of anti-rain, and which without.
Today on the auto chemical market you can find many different protective water-repellent products in composition and method of application. Some benefits are enormous, some are insignificant. Therefore, before purchasing an anti-rain product, it is recommended to familiarize yourself with the TOP best products and read reviews about them.
For those who want to make everything possible with their own hands, you can make anti-rain yourself. Moreover, in order to make it yourself, you only need a solvent and paraffin (an ordinary candle). Anyone who has already made such remedies themselves, please share in the comments, perhaps it will be useful to someone.
How to apply correctly
The immediate procedure for applying the composition differs depending on the consistency and type of product. Each manufacturer provides clear instructions on the process. Therefore, before you begin, you need to carefully study the instructions.
There is no fundamental difference where the coating will be applied - on the windshield or on the body. Therefore, the general principle is always the same, only the specifics differ.
Below is the general sequence of actions.
- The process is performed indoors (garage) at an ambient temperature of +5 to +25 degrees Celsius.
- Anti-rain is applied only to clean glass. Therefore, you must first wash the car with detergents. Particular attention should be paid to windows. It is not a good idea to wash away dirt with streams of water - it is advisable to use a soapy sponge.
- Dry the surface of the car completely - experts recommend using regular newsprint and special towels for this purpose.
- According to the manufacturer's instructions, apply anti-rain to the required areas.
- Rub the formula in a circular motion, applying sufficient force. When processing a windshield, it is necessary to complete it in one approach. If applied unevenly or at different times, incomplete overlap of layers may occur, which will lead to problem areas. The film should be smooth and monolithic.
- The final stage is polishing. Here it is advisable to use woolen fabric to achieve ideal transparency of the windows.
DIY anti-rain, recipes
And here the question arises about creating anti-rain for glass with your own hands.
If you look at the composition of this product, you can see that it contains silicone polymers, so they are the basis of the anti-rain.
And on the shelves of car dealerships you can often find another product to eliminate squeaks in the car interior - liquid silicone, in the form of a spray.
It costs much less, and it still contains the same silicone polymers. Therefore, you can treat the glass with it, the effect will be the same as after using anti-rain.
The only thing is that the service life of such a coating is shorter, due to the lack of fixatives in the liquid silicone composition. Yes, and it is still not advisable to use this liquid on the car body.
Tips and secrets for applying anti-rain
Apply anti-rain in dry weather, but not in direct sunlight; Do not skip the step of re-polishing the windows and wipe the windows and wipers with a clean rag after each trip. If the anti-rain coating stops working, remove any remaining residue with disposable paper towels, simply wiping the glass with force. After which you can reapply the anti-rain, following the recommended instructions.
What anti-rain does: the product evens out unevenness on the glass that is invisible to the eye, covering it with a thin silicone layer; as a result, raindrops do not linger on the glass and roll off in the flow of air masses. The manufacturers of this miracle product themselves promise drivers an improvement in visibility when driving in the rain without using wipers by 34%, as well as a reduction in glare and protection of car windows from icing and dirt accumulation.
