Silicone Vs. Rubber Wiper Blades
by Abby Slutsky
Windshield wipers typically come with your vehicle so you may not pay attention to the type of blades you have. Nevertheless, wiper blades wear so you will eventually need to replace them. Well-performing blades are essential to clear visibility in adverse weather.
Noise
Rubber windshield wiper blades are more likely to screech as they slide across the windshield. Silicone wipers are quieter because a lubricant from the wipers makes the water bead better and the blades slide more easily.
Durability and Cost
Organic rubber is more likely to be affected by weather elements and can be damaged by heat or even become frozen to the windshield by cold, as opposed to silicone which is not as easily damaged by harsh weather or the sun. As of October, 2010, many rubber wipers are under $21, but most silicone blades are over $25.
Performance
Most wipers perform well for about six to nine months, whether they are rubber or silicone. Although silicone wipers are touted to perform better, tests by Consumer Reports found that there was no consistency of better performance by them after that time period.
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