3 Ways to Protect Your Newly Installed Windshield

How you treat your new windshield may determine how well it serves you. After leaving your auto body shop, your windshield may develop several issues if you don't take proper care. The glass might crack or get loose. As a result, you may not be well-protected in case of a collision or extreme weather.

You could find yourself back at the repair shop to get another replacement, losing money in the process. But you can avoid all the hassle if you know what to do immediately after you get a new windshield. Here are three tips to help you care for your new installation.

After a successful windshield installation, your auto glass expert may advise that you wait a while longer before you're back on the road again. The idea is to give the adhesive enough time to cure properly and hold your windshield firmly against the frame.

During installation, your auto glass technician uses a waterproof adhesive to form an airtight seal around the frame. They may use an adhesive such as urethane to form a strong bond for your new windshield. However, different adhesives have different curing times. Other external factors such as temperature and humidity may also affect the rate of curing.

For instance, higher outdoor humidity and temperatures could slow down the curing process. You'd have to wait a long time before you can be on the road again. Typically, your auto glass expert should let you know how long to wait before you can drive your car. Although waiting can feel like an inconvenience, you may want to give your new windshield a good head start.

Unfortunately, high-pressure buildup inside your car can happen unexpectedly, especially with the high summer temperatures.

When pressure builds up, the windshield might get pushed outward and fall out of position. Your adhesive seal might not withstand the push and could create openings around the frame. You can expect unsafe leaks if you drive around with a compromised windshield.

To avoid this problem, slightly roll down your windows after the installation is done. You could also pick a parking spot that's not in direct sunlight if you intend to leave your car for a while. Besides balancing out the temperatures, this tactic also helps regulate internal pressure to avoid more issues.  

You may have a habit of thoroughly washing your car after an auto shop visit. However, after a fresh windshield installation, you may want to hold off on a wash. A high-pressure car wash could spell trouble for your new windshield.

The fast water jet can seriously affect the quality of adhesion between the frame and windshield. Your windshield can quickly develop cracks even with minimal impact without strong adhesion. Additionally, your new installation may be misaligned after a high-pressure wash and fail to offer you the protection you need. 

Your new installation may only be watertight after the adhesive completely cures. Therefore, if the mold gets some damage while washing your car, you may have to go back to your auto glass expert for another installation.

If you have to clean your car, go for a full handwash instead. But avoid cleaning anywhere around the windshield to prevent water from ruining the adhesive. Also, swap your regular high-grade car wash detergent with a mild alternative. Harsh cleaning products may also affect the strength of the fresh adhesive material.  

Employing proper safety and aftercare for your new windshield can make a big difference in how well the new installation serves you. If you need reliable auto glass repairs or replacement, contact Affiliated Auto Glass today.