It’s raining outside and you need to drive, but your windscreen wipers are not working as they should. Do you buy budget wipers or pay more money for a better-quality pair that will last longer? In this blog, we explore the different types of wipers available and what to look out for when choosing the right set for your car.

But first, a little bit of history…

The history of windscreen wipers can be traced back to the early 1900s when automobiles were first being mass-produced. Early versions of windscreen wipers were manually operated by the driver or passenger using a hand-cranked lever. However, this proved to be cumbersome and inefficient, as the driver had to stop the vehicle in order to clean the windscreen.

In 1903, Mary Anderson, an American inventor, patented a design for a windshield cleaning device that used a rubber blade attached to an arm that could be operated from inside the vehicle. However, her invention was not widely adopted until several years later, when Cadillac became the first automaker to incorporate windscreen wipers as a standard feature in their vehicles.

Since then, windscreen wipers have undergone numerous improvements and innovations, including the addition of intermittent wiping and automatic sensors that adjust the speed of the wipers based on the amount of rainfall. Today, they are considered an essential safety feature in all motor vehicles.

Types of windscreen wipers

Windscreen wipers are usually made from either rubber or silicone. Rubber blades are usually cheaper and last around 6-12 months, whereas silicone blades tend to be more expensive but can last up to 24 months. Silicone blades also have several other advantages over rubber blades, such as being more resistant to extreme temperatures and having a smoother wiping action. It is important to check with your car manufacturer before purchasing any new windscreen wipers, as some cars require specific sizes and shapes in order to fit properly.

Things to consider when choosing windscreen wipers

When choosing the right windscreen wipers for your car, there are several things you should consider. First, consider the size of your windshield: larger windshields require larger wiper blades so that they can cover the entire surface area effectively. Second, consider how often you use your car: if you frequently drive in wet conditions then it may be worth investing in a higher quality pair of wipers that will last longer than normal ones. Thirdly, consider the type of arm attachment required for installation: some cars require special attachments which are not compatible with standard arms so it is important to check before purchasing any new windscreen wiper blades.

Finally, think about cost vs durability when deciding which wiper blade is best for you – cheaper models may be adequate if you only use them occasionally but if you use them regularly then spending a bit more money on a higher-quality product may save you money in the long run due to their increased durability.

Should you DIY a windscreen wiper replacement? 

Whether to replace your windscreen wipers on your own or leave it to the professionals is a topic of debate. Some people prefer to replace them themselves, as it can be a relatively simple and cost-effective task. Windscreen wipers can easily be purchased at auto parts stores and online, and most come with instructions on how to install them.

However, others argue that it is best to leave the job to the professionals, as they have the experience and tools necessary to ensure that the wipers are installed correctly. Improper installation can result in streaking or other issues that can compromise visibility and safety on the road.

Ultimately, the decision to replace windscreen wipers on your own or seek professional assistance comes down to personal preference and comfort level with car maintenance tasks. If you feel confident in your ability to do the job properly, it may be a cost-effective option to replace them yourself. However, if you are unsure or uncomfortable with the task, it is best to seek professional assistance to ensure that the job is done correctly.