Replacing your car’s windshield when it’s broken or too old is the right call. A working windshield protects you from the wind, insects, weather, and other objects that can hit you and other occupants. But more importantly, sticking to the right windshield care after installation is essential for continued durability and functionality.
This article will enlighten you on what not to do after auto glass replacement in order to keep your windshield installation solid and durable. Meanwhile, if you need an auto glass replacement, Pro Guard Auto Glass is at your service, offering premier quality, reliable, and customer-centric installations.
Here are the Top 5 Mistakes Drivers Make after a Windshield Replacement
#1. Exposing the Windshield to Harsh Conditions and Treatments Immediately
Harsh treatments and conditions, such as washing the car immediately after installation or exposing it to extreme heat can negatively affect the durability of a newly installed windshield. Washing, especially high-pressure washes, puts strain on a new windshield that is yet to stabilize. And the water might cause the adhesive to loosen up while curing is in progress. High heat can also weaken the adhesive and its grip on the windshield.
Hence, avoid washing immediately after replacement and keep the car under normal temperatures, like in a garage or shaded space.
#2. Door Slamming After Replacement
Post installation, when the windshield is still curing and bonding to the frame, avoid slamming your car doors. Doing so causes intense vibrations in the car that may prevent the windshield from forming a proper seal.
#3. Neglecting the Curing Time
One of the critical after-windshield replacement tips that drivers neglect is curing time. This is the time frame it takes the adhesive to set and firmly bond the windshield to the vehicle’s frame.
Therefore, driving the car too soon after a replacement affects this curing process and might cause the windshield to shift slightly, leading to misalignment and potential leakages. Avoid driving for the first two hours after replacement, or follow the recommendation of your auto technician.
#4. Removing Retention Tape Too Soon
The retention tape helps in the curing process by allowing the adhesive to settle firmly and stabilize the windshield on the frame. Moreover, it helps to prevent dust, moisture, and flying debris from affecting the curing process.
Removing the tape too soon will jeopardize these functions and affect the integrity of the installation. The tapes might not look pretty on the windshield, but they play a critical role. It’s best you allow them to sit for at least 48 hours before discarding.
#5. Placing Heavy Objects on the Dashboard
After an installation, keeping heavy objects on the dashboard exerts pressure on the newly installed glass. The bottom part of the windshield close to the dashboard is mostly affected, with the adhesive around that area being affected. Before installation, remove all objects from the dashboard and return them after the seal is fully cured.
Choose the Professionals for the Right Windshield Replacement
At Pro Guard Auto Glass, we provide the most trusted and professional windshield replacement jobs for car owners in Maryland locations such as Glen Burnie and Laurel. Our experts also give you after-windshield replacement tips applicable to the installation you get from us. Choose us and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a pro windshield installation. Speak with the office at (310) 776- 0503 for more information.
