Do Rain-Repellent Windscreen Coatings Work?

Do Rain-Repellent Windscreen Coatings Work?

Rain-repellent coatings are water-shedding treatments you apply to the outside of the windscreen. Water beads up and blows off at speed, which can make driving in Sydney downpours easier. They are useful, but there are a few things to know before you use one.

How They Work

The coating leaves a thin layer on the glass that water does not cling to. Instead of a film, rain forms beads that roll away, especially once you are moving above suburban speeds.

The Benefits

• Better visibility in heavy rain, especially at highway speeds
• Bugs, grime and bird droppings are easier to clean off
• Less wiper use in light rain

The Downsides

• Wiper chatter — some coatings make wipers judder or skip, especially as the coating wears unevenly
• Patchy wear — the wiper path wears first, leaving streaks
• Reapplication — most need redoing every few weeks to months
• Glare if applied badly — leftover residue causes smearing at night

Cars With Cameras and Rain Sensors

Rain sensors and driver-assistance cameras look through the glass behind the rear-view mirror. Check your vehicle handbook before applying any coating over that area — some manufacturers advise keeping it free of products. See how to tell if your windscreen has a camera or sensor and rain sensor and camera reset after replacement.

How to Apply One Well

1. Clean the glass thoroughly and dry it completely.
2. Apply in small sections following the product instructions.
3. Buff off all residue until the glass is completely clear.
4. Replace worn wiper blades — coatings show up worn blades quickly.

After a New Windscreen

Wait until the adhesive has cured and the glass has been cleaned before applying a coating. See how long after replacement you can drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a coating stop stone chips?

No. Coatings shed water; they do not make the glass harder. See how to prevent windscreen chips.

Can I put it on the inside of the glass?

No — rain-repellents are for the outside. The inside needs a normal glass cleaner.

Why do my wipers judder after applying it?

Residue or uneven wear is the usual cause. Clean the glass thoroughly and check your blades.

Does it work at low speed?

Less so. The beading effect works best once air is moving over the glass.

Need a chip fixed before you treat your windscreen? Aussie AutoGlass is a mobile service across greater Sydney — we come to your home or workplace. Book an appointment or call 0405 412 951.