Author: Radomskyi Maksym VasyliovychRain repellent — is a simple and affordable product that makes water bead up and roll off the glass, greatly improving visibility during heavy rain and reducing the consumption of «washer fluid». However, many people apply it at the wrong time or make mistakes, causing the effect to last only a couple of weeks. Let’s look at when and how to properly use a hydrophobic coating. To make your car look more stylish and attractive, you can also use tuning accessories, available in a huge selection in our online store.
The best time to apply rain repellent
To make the coating last as long as possible:
- Air temperature: +10…+25 °C (ideal +15–20 °C).
- Dry weather: at least 6–8 hours after application without rain.
- Season: best in spring (March–April) or early autumn (September), when there is no extreme heat or sharp temperature changes.
- Avoid: winter (polymerization is weak at sub-zero temperatures) and hot summer above +30 °C (the solution may dry too quickly).
Apply the rain repellent 1–2 days before the rainy season begins — the full effect appears after 12–24 hours.
Step-by-step guide for proper application
- Thorough washing: use car shampoo + alcohol-based degreaser or a special primer.
- Degreasing: wipe the glass with isopropyl alcohol or a special product like CarPro Eraser.
- Application: 2–3 thin layers of rain repellent with 5–10 minute intervals (Soft99 Glaco, Ombrello, etc.). The number of layers depends on the product: most are applied in 2–3 layers, but professional coatings like Aquapel — in one layer.
- Polishing: After a few minutes (as per instructions), gently polish the surface with a clean, dry, lint-free microfiber cloth until fully transparent, leaving no streaks.
- Polymerization: leave the car in a garage for 8–12 hours.
Useful tips
- New windshields «hold» the coating longer than old ones.
- Do not turn on the wipers for the first 24 hours.
- Reapply rain repellent every 6–9 months with frequent driving.
A good rain repellent starts working from 40 km/h: water rolls off in droplets, and visibility remains clear.
