Let’s be honest, a new windshield can be a bit of an investment. You have probably just gone through an unfortunate crack or chip in your auto glass. You finally made the decision to get things fixed before they get worse, and now you are attempting to be as cautious as possible.
We get it. Having windshield issues can be a bummer, and attempting to avoid them is just a practice in frugality. If you got your windshield replaced by a business-like SLP Auto Glass (shameless self-promotion), then it’s possible you didn’t even speak to the technician. They may have fixed it while you were in the comfort of your home.
Okay, okay. I’m done.
Regardless, if you just replaced your windshield and you are looking to provide help in its longevity, here are a few important tips.
Check Your New Windshield
Look, everyone makes mistakes. While companies like SLC Auto Glass staff expert technicians, things can always happen. Therefore, it’s crucial to check your new windshield as soon as possible. Look for any issues before driving off the lot.
Check the seal around the windshield for bubbles and gaps. Check the glass itself for dings or cracks. When you drive the vehicle, keep an ear out for sound coming from the auto glass. This can be a sign that the gasket was installed incorrectly.
If you notice any of these issues, take the vehicle back to the technician immediately. They will (should) fix their work without any issues. Any issues or conformities in your auto glass can lead to an array of problems, including a decrease in structural integrity.
Do Not Forget Warranty Paperwork
Most, if not all, auto glass technicians should provide a warranty for your windshield. Whether this is for 30 days or longer, make sure to keep ahold of the paperwork. You want to have it in your possession in case something happens. This will make the financial part of replacement efficient.
If you have any questions about the work done or the warranty, do not be shy. Ask the technician any questions. They are the experts, after all.
24-Hour Window
Once your new windshield has been installed, there are a plethora of things you can do and avoid to make sure the installation process goes smoothly. You don’t want to mess around and damage your brand-new auto glass. Simply put, the first 24 hours after installation is the most important time to be weary.
While you may want to follow these tips for a few days, be especially careful the first day after.
Leave Windows Cracked
As stated, the first 24 hours are the most important time for the windshield adhesive to set correctly. If possible, leave at least one window down about an inch. This ensures that the pressure on the outside and inside of the window remains the same. This will allow the adhesive to set correctly and eliminate any chances of leaks.
If you can’t do this, it isn’t going to destroy your new windshield, but it will ensure that the seal has enough time to change. As said, just one window down an inch is enough to suffice.
Don’t Wash Your Car
So, you got your new windshield and now your car looks pristine. Time to wash and wax it. Clean that bad boy up, right?
Avoid washing your car for at least 24 hours after installing a new windshield. This is not because of the water though, don’t worry. Rain and water won’t destroy your new windshield. But the pressure of a hose directly on the windshield could affect the new seal.
Also, certain cleaning agents may damage the seal adhesive if used directly on it. To avoid this, don’t wash your car for three days. This, of course, is staying on the safe side.
Ultimately, washing your car (especially in an automatic carwash) can wait. I promise.
Avoid Roads With Potholes
If at all possible, avoid roads with large bumps and potholes. When driving your car home, you want to make sure that any unneeded issues will not arise. If you hit a large bump, it might shake the seal just enough so it doesn’t seal properly. If you see a bump that is not avoidable, then we would recommend slowing down enough to take it cautiously. This will allow for the seal not to be shaken dramtically.
Furthermore, if you know you commute within the first 24 hours may involve roads with excess dirt, extreme weather, or large shipping trucks, try to avoid it. The last thing you want is a rock flying into your brand-new windshield. While this won’t mess up the seal, it may chip the glass. Avoid buyer’s remorse and a sick stomach.
What About Rain?
The idea of storms beating down on your new windshield may seem concerning, but have no fear. Windshield technicians use UV light to speed up the drying process of the resin holding the windshield down. A responsible and safe technician will not give the car to you without the resin dried enough for rain.
If, for some reason, they do not efficiently dry the resin, you may notice issues later on. Driving in the rain with undried resin is not dangerous, but it could ruin your windshield.
As stated, any professional windshield repair company will return your car to you dried and ready to drive.
Don’t Slam Your Doors
Be mindful of slamming your doors 24 hours after your windshield replacement. If you accidentally do this, it won’t cause the windshield to completely shatter or crack, but it can cause issues with the newly-made seal. The seal needs to be perfectly fitted for the structural integrity of the glass. Shaking that might cause it to shift ever so slightly.
Honestly, not slamming your doors is a good car habit regardless.
Also, if you have a subwoofer in your car, turn the bass down. The constant rattling of your windows is awful for the new seal. Just turn on some smooth jazz and take it easy for 24 hours, at least. Your neighbors will thank you, also. That’s a plus!
Do Not Drive for at Least an Hour
Sometimes you may have to drive, but if it can be avoided, it is highly recommended that you wait. This is because the urethane in the windshield needs at least this amount of time to set. If possible, wait for longer than this, but at an hour the urethane is completely up to safety standards.
If you have to drive the car home immediately after replacement, that’s okay. Just go easy on it. Also, try to avoid using the windshield wipers for longer than an hour, too.
In the grand scheme of things, once you hit the 24-hour mark, everything should be good to go. But keep an eye on your new windshield for any bubbles, noises, or new cracks.
Contact Us
Looking to get a windshield repaired or replaced? Have any questions regarding your new or old windshield? Reach out to us!
A certified technician will respond to you ASAP.
Come find out why Denver loves SLP Auto Glass.