Just Had A Windshield Replaced? Three Important Tips You Need To Know
The steps you take immediately following a windshield replacement can affect the lifespan and durability of your new windshield. Unfortunately, many people do not know what they need to do after their windshield is replaced. Here are three important tips that you need to know after you have had your windshield replaced.
Wait to Drive the Car for an Hour
After your windshield has been replaced, it is recommended that you wait at least an hour to drive the car. If you must drive the car, try to avoid bumpy or rocky roads, roads with speed bumps, and pot holes. All of these items can jar your car, shaking a windshield. The seal that holds your windshield in place should harden for at least an hour before you drive your car so you can ensure your windshield seal holds the glass firmly in place.
Leave a Window Cracked for a Day
Another tip that you should follow after you have had a windshield replaced is to leave a window cracked for at least a day or two after the windshield has been replaced. When you leave your windows rolled up, heat can get trapped in your car and create pressure. This can push on the windshield. Normally, this is not a big deal. But when you are trying to allow your windshield seal to cure, you do not want the added pressure. Keeping a window unrolled allows the heat to escape and decreases the amount of pressure that can build up on your windshield.
Avoid Car Washes for a Few Days
The last tip to follow after you have had a windshield replaced is to avoid machine car washes for the first few days. Machine car washes spray pressurized water on your car, which can cause the glass to shift if the seal has not cured. If you absolutely must wash your car following a windshield glass replacement, be sure to hand wash the car and avoid spraying water directly on the windshield region.
Not every crack or chip in your windshield can or should be replaced. If your windshield chip is larger than the size of a dollar bill, if the chip is larger than a quarter, or if it has multiple branches on the chip or crack, replacement is recommended. Following a windshield replacment, be sure to follow the above tips to allow the windshield seal to fully dry, ensuring it can hold your windshield in place for years to come.