Brief Summary
This video by Project Farm tests and compares the performance of various windshield water repellents, including Rain-X, Aquapel, and Gtechniq, among others. The tests evaluate slickness, hydrophobic qualities, resistance to windshield washer fluid, car wash detergent, bug and tar remover, degreaser, and heat exposure, as well as the ability to repel bug guts. Aquapel and Gtechniq tie for first place overall, with Rain-X being a cost-effective alternative.
- Aquapel and Gtechniq are top performers in water repellency.
- Rain-X offers excellent performance at a lower price point.
- Slickness isn't a reliable indicator of hydrophobic qualities.
Introduction to Windshield Water Repellents
The video introduces a test of various windshield water repellents to determine if newer products outperform the classic Rain-X. The experiment includes torture tests for water repellency and bug gut resistance. Ten products are compared on glass panels and a car windshield, with ease of application being a subjective factor.
Application of Water Repellents
The process begins with cleaning the glass surfaces using strip wash, a clay bar, and glass cleaner to remove contaminants. Each of the ten products, including Rain-X, Invisible Glass, Adams Glass Sealant, 3D, Carkoot, Gtechniq G5, Chemical Guys Hydro View, Aquapel, Deashi, and Gyeon View, are applied according to their specific instructions, noting the country of origin and ease of application. Application methods vary from wiping with a cloth to using included applicators, with drying and curing times also differing.
Slickness Test
After a 24-hour curing period, the slickness of each product is tested using a sponge with a consistent weight. The force required to slide the sponge across the treated glass is measured. Chemical Guys, Adams, 3D, and Gtechniq are the slickest, while Aquapel and Gyeon are the least slick.
Hydrophobic Qualities Test
The hydrophobic qualities of each product are assessed by spraying water onto the treated windshield and observing how the water beads or sheets. Aquapel and Gyeon perform the best, with Rain-X also showing excellent results. Deashi struggles, with water sheeting across the surface.
Resistance to Windshield Washer Fluid
Windshield washer fluid is sprayed onto the treated surfaces, and a sponge is used to simulate windshield wipers. The time it takes for the water to dissipate is measured. Rain-X, Adams, Gtechniq, Gyeon, and Aquapel maintain their performance, while Deashi's performance significantly degrades.
Resistance to Car Wash Detergent
The windshield is washed with car wash detergent and a scrubber. Rain-X, Gtechniq, Gyeon, and Aquapel continue to repel water effectively, while Deashi's performance worsens. 3D and Chemical Guys also experience significant performance loss.
Resistance to Bug and Tar Remover
Bug and tar remover is applied to the windshield, left to soak, and then rinsed off. Gyeon demonstrates the tightest water beads, while Rain-X, Gtechniq, and Aquapel also perform well.
Resistance to Wheel and Tire Cleaner
Wheel and tire cleaner is applied, and its effect on the water repellents is observed. Aquapel performs the best, with Gyeon outperforming Rain-X and Gtechniq slightly.
Resistance to Degreaser
A powerful degreaser is applied to the windshield. Aquapel performs slightly better than Gyeon, with Rain-X and Gtechniq showing longer water trails.
Blow Dryer Test
A blow dryer is used to remove water droplets from the treated surfaces. Aquapel is the most effective, followed by Gyeon, with Rain-X and Gtechniq performing similarly.
Bug Gut Removal Test
Bug guts are applied to the glass panels, allowed to cure, and then cleaned using windshield washer fluid and a squeegee. Gtechniq, Aquapel, Deashi, and Gyeon perform the best in removing bug gut remains, while most brands effectively remove the marker stain.
Heat Exposure Test
The glass panels are placed in a dishwasher for 2.5 hours at a high temperature. Gtechniq, Aquapel, and Gyeon tie for first place, with Rain-X performing well. Aquapel easily outperforms the knockoff brand, Deashi.
Conclusion
Gtechniq and Aquapel tie for first place overall, with Aquapel having a slight advantage in water repellency. Gtechniq is noted as being easier to apply. Rain-X is a cost-effective option that still performs well. The video concludes by recommending hydrophobic window treatments for areas with heavy rain.
