Post Auto Glass Repair Care: Best Safety Tips
Did you just get your windshield repaired?
You might be tempted to just relax and think that it’s all behind you. But hold on a minute… There is one more thing you need to know…
The first 48 hours after your auto glass repair is the most important time for your safety. Why?
Simple… One little mistake during this period and you could end up ruining your brand new windshield.
The issue is…
Bad aftercare can cause your new windshield to crack, leak, or even pop out of its frame way earlier than expected. And the last thing anyone wants to do is spend more money on the same repair work.
So in this article I’m going to share with you some tips on what you should and shouldn’t do after an auto glass repair to ensure the repair will last.
Ready?
Let’s get to it!
Here’s a quick summary of what we’ll cover:
- Why Post Auto Glass Repair Care Matters
- The Very First Hour
- The First 24-48 Hours
- Caring For Your Windshield Over The Long Term
Why Post Auto Glass Repair Care Matters
Do you know one thing most people don’t?
Windshields give up to 45% of a vehicle’s structural strength in a rollover crash. We’re talking about nearly half the force that keeps your roof from caving in during an accident.
When you hire top-notch windscreen repair services from a trusted provider, they use a urethane adhesive to bond the glass to your vehicle frame. This adhesive creates a waterproof seal that keeps everything intact. However, it needs time to fully cure.
If you don’t follow the necessary aftercare steps, that adhesive won’t set properly. And that means your windshield will be a major safety hazard.
The Very First Hour
The first hour after your windshield repair or replacement is CRUCIAL.
Do not drive your vehicle for at least one hour after your windshield replacement.
I can hear you from here, you’re thinking…
But I got to get home now. What’s one hour going to matter?
You do not want to take that chance. The adhesive needs time to set before your car goes through any movement and vibration.
If you cannot wait at the auto glass shop, then have someone pick you up.
In the meantime, go ahead and look inside your vehicle for any remaining glass shards from the old windshield. Most technicians vacuum everything out, but it’s better to double-check for peace of mind.
The First 24-48 Hours
The next 24 to 48 hours after repair are just as crucial as that very first hour.
If you can avoid doing certain things in the first 24-48 hours, you’ll maximize the lifespan of your auto glass repair.
So let’s look at what you should not do after an auto glass repair.
Car Washes Are A Big No-No
Trust me on this, do not use a car wash for at least 24 hours after your windshield replacement.
The high-pressure water jets will strip the adhesive from your windshield before it even has a chance to set.
It’s fine to get caught in the rain (rain is not under any pressure) but automated car washes and pressure washers are an absolute no-no.
If you absolutely must wash your car, wash it by hand using a gentle detergent.
Don’t Touch That Tape
The other thing you don’t want to do is remove the retention tape around your windshield.
The tape might not look the best, but trust me it’s there for a reason.
Auto glass technicians apply that tape to hold the windshield moldings in place while the adhesive sets. Pulling it off too soon can cause the seal to fail or cause the glass to shift position.
You want to leave that tape on for at least 24 hours, or until your technician says it’s ok to remove it.
Air Pressure Is Also A Concern
This one will probably surprise you… Air pressure inside the vehicle will stress the adhesive seal.
So what you need to do is this:
- Leave a window cracked open about an inch for the first 24 hours
- Close your car doors gently (avoid slamming doors)
- Do not turn on your heater or air conditioner at full blast
These precautions will help avoid air pressure buildup which could ruin your windshield installation.
Easy On The Road For Now
For the first 24 to 48 hours after replacement, avoid rough roads with large potholes and speed bumps. The constant up and down motion can stress the adhesive before it’s had a chance to fully set.
Try to drive slowly and avoid any sudden stops.
Caring For Your Windshield Over The Long Term
After you get past the initial 48-hour period, you still need to give your windshield some love.
- Regularly clean both the inside and outside of your windshield. Dirt and debris buildup can cause scratching and pitting overtime.
- Don’t follow too closely behind the vehicle in front of you. Professional chip repairs only have a success rate of about 70%, so prevention is better than repair. Keep plenty of room between you and the vehicle ahead, especially when on the highway.
- Flying rocks are the number one cause of windshield damage. If you see a chip or crack, get it fixed ASAP before it gets worse.
Signs Of A Bad Installation
Wondering how to tell if your windshield was installed properly?
Here are some warning signs of a bad windshield installation:
- Water leaking around the edges when it rains.
- Whistling sounds when your car is moving at high speeds.
- Visible gaps between the glass and frame.
- Windshield is not seated evenly in the frame.
If you experience any of these issues, call your auto glass repair services provider right away.
A reputable company will correct any installation problems free of charge.
The Bottom Line
Taking care of your newly repaired windshield is really not much work at all. Just a little bit of patience and care during the most critical 48 hours.
Here’s a recap of the main points:
- Do not drive for at least one hour after windshield replacement.
- Avoid car washes for at least 24 hours.
- Leave the retention tape in place.
- Keep a window cracked to avoid pressure buildup.
- Drive carefully and avoid rough roads.
- Be on the lookout for signs of a bad installation.
Follow these simple tips and your windshield will last for years to come.
The secret is to choose a quality auto glass repair services provider from the start, then give that repair the time it needs to set properly. Do both of those things, and you’ll never have any more windshield problems.
Quick Questions
How long after windshield replacement can I drive?
Wait at least one hour after your windshield replacement before driving your car. The adhesive needs time to set before your vehicle is put through any movement or vibration.
Can I wash my car after windshield replacement?
No, do not use any type of car wash for at least 24 hours. High-pressure water will remove the adhesive before it has a chance to set. Rain is fine, but automated car washes and power washers are a no-no. If you must wash your car, do it by hand using mild detergent.
Why should I leave the tape on?
The retention tape holds the windshield moldings in place until the adhesive dries. Removing it too soon can cause installation failure or the glass to shift position. Leave the tape in place for at least 24 hours.
What if my windshield leaks after replacement?
Call your auto glass repair services provider immediately. Leaking means improper installation. A reputable company will fix installation problems free of charge.
How do I prevent future windshield damage?
Maintain a safe following distance, especially on highways. Avoid gravel roads when possible. If you get a chip or crack, get it fixed immediately. Small chips quickly turn into large cracks.