Are Your Wiper Blades Summer Storm Ready?

While we may yearn for the summer months with their long, warm days and balmy nights, the reality is that the warmest period of the year can also turn out to be the most volatile weather-wise.

Indeed, while summer brings higher temperatures and sunnier conditions, the rising heat will turn to water vapour when it gets high enough. 

If this happens quickly, clouds rapidly begin to form and down comes the rain – often very heavily. It’s why prolonged heatwaves are often brought to an end by violent storms and torrential downpours.

It means your wiper blades will be getting a good workout if you happen to be out on the road, but if the dry conditions prior to that mean you haven’t been using them so much, it is useful to understand any issues that may therefore arise from this.

How Summer Weather Affects Wiper Blades

UV Radiation: Ultraviolet radiation from the sun’s rays can have a detrimental effect on any degradable material exposed to them, especially if – like wiper blades – they are not used regularly during these periods. These rays can crack the rubber on your blades, reducing their flexibility and becoming brittle

High Temperatures: Similarly, high temperatures alone are enough to wear down your wiper blades even if they are not being used for their purpose, particularly as they are located on the exterior of a vehicle in constant exposure to the environment around it.

Dust and Debris: While you may not be using your wiper blades to shift rain or water from your windscreen during drier months, there is a good chance you’ll be activating them to help rid the windscreen of dust and debris build up. This is especially prevalent in the summer months when drier conditions kick up dust, pollen and grit and it settles on the windscreen. Be sure to use plenty of windscreen washer fluid when you do though as these rough particles could damage your blades and/or scratch your windscreen.

Bugs and Bird Poop: The summer months lead to a flurry of wildlife activity, namely airborne bugs and insects – such as flies, mosquitoes, bluebottles, midges and horseflies – which have the misfortune of meeting their maker on your windscreen, leaving quite the mess. Not only is it unsightly, but the fluids excreted in the impact are very sticky and hard to shift if left to dry. Birds will also be making the most of the longer days, so be mindful of parking up anywhere in case your windscreen becomes a canvas for their, erm, droppings. 

Vision: Beyond the impact to wiper blades themselves, the impact of the sun – particularly when it hangs low in the sky during sunrise and sunset hours – can seriously impair your vision. As such, it is important to have a clean windscreen so your view isn’t obstructed further by debris in your line of sight that could cause a glare or be distracted. 

Will My Wiper Blades Withstand A Summer Storm?

While wiper blades will inevitably wear through persistent use, particularly in the winter months, they arguably go through more gruelling conditions in the summer even if they aren’t used as often.

The persistent impact of UV rays and high temperatures alone are enough to have a wearing effect on the wiper blades, while they have to work harder to shift debris, grit, dust, bugs and more than they would remove water.

So, it is worth approaching the summer months exactly as you would the winter months and consider changing your wiper blades to get optimum performance, even if it is for a different reason.

Do this and when the heat does eventually break and those summer storms do come down hard, you’ll be very prepared. 

An Affordable Upgrade That Makes a Big Difference 

Wiper blades are one of the most cost-effective upgrades for your vehicle, yet they play a crucial role in ensuring clear vision and safer driving. 

With Wiperblades.co.uk you can purchase the wiper blades that are guaranteed to fit your vehicle, all at great value prices, even among top name brands like Bosch, Michelin and Lucas.

Plus, with our easy-to-follow fitment videos and expert guidance, you can install them in under a minute—keeping your windscreen spotless with minimal effort.   

Get Summer-Ready with New Wiper Blades 

Don't let a dirty windscreen ruin your summer road trips. Upgrading your wiper blades is a simple but essential step to ensure clear vision and safe driving. Browse our selection and find the perfect fit for your vehicle today