How to Remove Sap From a Windshield

Cleaning with certain solutions can remove sap from windshields.

Temperature fluctuations cause pressure within trees to rise, forcing sap to ooze out through tree branches, wounds and other openings. Parking underneath a tree can cause a sticky mess on vehicles. Tree sap can leak and deposit gooey residue on the vehicle's windshield. Sap stiffens as it dries and becomes increasingly difficult to remove the longer it remains on glass. While sap does not damage windshields, it can obstruct a driver's vision, as well as make your car look dirty. Promptly remove tree sap to restore your windshield and your car.

Things You'll Need

• Spray bottle
• Lukewarm water
• Synthetic bristle scrubber
• 2 absorbent lint free cloths
• Cotton ball
• Nail polish remover

Instructions

1. Park the vehicle out of direct sunlight to prevent water spots from developing on the windshield.

2. Fill a spray bottle with lukewarm water. Spray the affected area of the windshield with water to rinse away loose dirt and grime.

3. Scrub the sap with a synthetic bristle scrubber. Remove as much sap as possible with the scrubber.

4. Wipe the windshield with an absorbent lint-free cloth to remove the sap debris.

5. Drench a cotton ball in nail polish remover. Rub the cotton ball over the windshield to dissolve the remaining sap.

6. Spray the windshield with water to rinse away the nail polish remover and sap residue.

7. Wipe the windshield with another absorbent lint-free cloth until the glass is completely dry.

Tips & Warnings

• You can substitute mineral spirits for the nail polish remover.

• Dissolve extremely stubborn sap with a water dispersing lubricant spray.

• Do not get any nail polish remover on the vehicle's paint because it will remove the paint.

References

• Ask The Builder: Window Cleaning Tools
• Gardening Know How: How To Remove Tree Sap
• Cornell Sugar Maple Research And Extension Program: Sap Flow
• "Popular Mechanics": How to Clean, Wax and Detail Your Car - Expert Tips