How to Protect Your Newly Replaced Windshield

13 May How to Protect Your Newly Replaced Windshield

If you’ve got a recently replaced windshield, some simple tips and tricks will help you ensure it lasts as long as possible.

Your windshield is one of the most important parts of your car. It prevents dust, insects, dirt, rain, and other elements from getting inside the car. On top of that, the windshield plays an important role in keeping you safe while driving and in an accident.

Even though windshields are very strong and durable, they can be damaged by things like hail, flying debris, or falling objects. Once it’s suffered irreparable damage or crack, you will be required to schedule a windshield replacement service — leaving you with a totally brand-new glass. To make sure that your new windshield will stay in pristine condition for a long time, there are certain things that you must remember and do right after the replacement.

Tips for Protecting Your Recently Replaced Windshield

Keep the Tape

After the installation of your new windshield, the technician will leave the retention tape on. It prevents the glass from moving while it’s still curing. You might be tempted to remove it, but you should not do that for about 24 – 48 hours. If not sure, you can ask the installer when you can remove the tape.

If you remove the retention tape before it was completely cured, dirt and other particles may get stuck to the adhesive. As a result, the connection between the glass and frame weakens — making your windshield susceptible to damages.

Let It Set

Windshields are glued to the car frame using urethane. This type of adhesive takes some time to set and harden. That is why it is important to not drive your car for at least 1 hour to give the urethane time to cure.

The good thing is most windshield replacement companies offer mobile services — which basically means that they carry out the auto glass service at the customer’s house or place of work. With this, it would be easier for car owners to steer away from driving their car for a certain amount of time.

If you drive your car immediately right after, the urethane won’t have enough time to harden, hindering your new windshield to be firmly installed into the car frame.

Resist the Urge to Hit the Car Wash

You should refrain from going to a car wash for at least 3 days after getting a new windshield. This is because car washes use high-pressure jets, motor pumps, and other equipment — which may reduce the strength of the adhesive, especially if they are not completely hardened yet.

However, this does not mean that you should get your car away from water. You just need to keep it away from pressure or impact that can weaken your new windshield’s glass-to-frame connection. That said, you can still wash your car at home by using a microfiber cloth and mild soaps.

Conclusion

These windshield aftercare tips will help you ensure that the urethane in your new windshield will dry appropriately and will not leave any gaps between the glass and the car frame. By knowing what to do after a windshield replacement, you can also avoid committing mistakes that can void your warranty. With that, make sure to always remember the tips above so your new windshield stays in good condition. For all your windshield replacement needs, call the pros at RNR Auto Glass.