Windshield wiper blades keep your vision clear on the road when rain, sleet, and snow are coming down.
But did you know there are actually different kinds of wiper blades for the seasons? You can find winter blades and summer blades, both made to keep your windshield clear in varying conditions.
Learn about the different types of wiper blades with the help of Blain’s Farm & Fleet.
In the summer, you’ll really only have to worry about rain on your windshield. Summer blades are lightweight and thin, when compared to the winter blades.
Light, Natural Rubber – Summer blades usually have a thin layer of natural rubber around the frames. The thin, lighter rubber works well when the weather warms up and it has to make contact with your windshield.
Lightweight Frame – The thin, lightweight frame is more aesthetically pleasing than the thick winter blades. They don’t occupy a lot of room on your windshield. And they really only need to go to work when it’s raining.
Lattice Arms – This is the biggest thing that sets winter and summer blades apart. Summer wiper blades have a lattice framework, which consists of different pivot points and bars that make the wiper blades work.
In the winter, these get jammed with ice and snow, making it extremely difficult to clean off your windshield.
If you live in the Midwest, you know we get our fair share of snow in the wintertime. Winter wipes blades are bigger and sturdier than summer ones, so they can take on inclement weather all season long.
Sturdy Frame – The framework of winter wipers is designed to keep them moving, despite cold and snow. Since the wiper blade is covered by thick rubber, there are no exposed parts that can get clogged up with ice and snow.
Plus, the sturdier frame does a better job handling blizzards and freezing rain when compared to summer blades.
Large, Synthetic Rubber – The large, rubber covering keeps the wiper frame snow- and ice-free, so your windshield stays clear. There’s no exposed framework because of the protective rubber shield.
The rubber, typically made from synthetic materials like Teflon and silicone, stays flexible and soft. This way, the blade doesn’t tear, and it can keep working—even in freezing temps.
For more information, see our articles on caring for your wiper blades and finding the best wiper blades for you.
Having the right windshield wipers can help you keep safe on the road. At Blain’s Farm & Fleet, we understand that. That’s why we carry quality windshield wiper blades from trusted brands. We even offer wiper blade installation, as well as a variety of other services, at our automotive service centers.
For more tips and guides like this one, check out our Auto Accessories Blog.
