My windshield looks terrible in bright sunlight. Is anyone aware of a really good product that can take out swirls and scratches? Would be using a porter cable.

 

You're not gonna get much done with a Porter Cable. Not that it's a bad machine but glass is just too thick and strong for it to work well. You could try this if you really want.

Start with a car polish and a heavy cutting pad. This should take out swirls or VERY light scratches. If this doesn't work, go more aggressive.

Buy some Rayon glass polishing pads and some Ceriglass and try polishing with that. This will get the glass very clear and remove almost all light scratches and swirls.

This is the most you can do with a DA. You can try these same steps with a rotary to get better results but if your glass is pitted or has small chips, these will never come out and replacement is necessary.

 

do you have glass insurance? I do and deductible is $100.00. I'd just replace the windshield and then protect it with some Pinnacle Glass Works Glass Sealant. Use it every month, super easy to wipe on and buff off and you'll be golden. That would be my suggestion.

 

^Great advice... long story short, there isn't a whole lot that can be done with polishing. Glass is much harder than paint, and you cannot achieve the same type of defect removal that you can with a DA machine on clear coat paint. If the windshield is in poor shape, it may just be better to replace it.

Zach McGovern
Detailed Image Ask-A-Pro Blog Author
Attention to Detailing - Peoria, IL

 

Might try the rayon pads and ceriglass as a last ditch effort before replacement (glass coverage with my insurance is garbage, basically just a mild discount with safelite). while there is some pitting and i don't expect that to help, the main issue is when the sun hits it at the right angle the light swirls and scratches are awful.

 

Cerium oxide will remove enough material to get rid of light scratches (e.g. the scratches caused by running the wipers on a dry windshield).

I'd avoid replacement unless it's absolutely necessary, as there is always the risk of leaks and damaged weather stripping.

Myles

 

I do sales so i put on a ton of hwy miles. At some point, a truck will kick a rock into my windshield. It's inevitable. So, i'm fine with polishing and just waiting for that day.

 

Another vote for using ceriglass. It can really remove minor scratches on windshield and side windows.