A freshly-replaced windshield is a beautiful thing. If yours has just been replaced, or is in need of replacement, chances are good that it’s been looking a little unsightly with cracks, chips, or other damage on its surface. If those cracks or chips have been partially obstructing your vision while driving, it’s extra-relieving to get it replaced– not only will it look better, but you also won’t have to worry about getting pulled over, since even a partial vision obstruction on the windshield can get you in trouble.
However, you really can’t just hop in your car and drive as soon as the replacement is complete. If you’re wondering what to do after a windshield replacement, there are a few basic guidelines to adhere to in order to ensure a long and healthy life for your new windshield. They might feel a little inconvenient, but they’ll be more than worth it in the long run!
Be Gentle
Your new windshield has been attached to your vehicle with special adhesive that takes some time to completely set and dry. During the time this adhesive is drying, you should take extra care to be gentle with your vehicle in ways you probably don’t usually think about.
Avoiding abrupt changes in air pressure inside the vehicle is imperative. That means you should avoid slamming doors, and if at all possible, should crack the windows so that the air pressure can remain consistent. If you don’t crack your windows and have guests in your car, slamming the doors, your windshield’s seal might be compromised, causing further troubles down the line.
Don’t Wash
Because of that adhesive, it’s best to avoid getting the vehicle wet at all until you’re sure that the seal is completely set. This means especially avoiding any kind of car wash that utilizes pressurized water, like the kind that you drive through.
If you absolutely have to wash your car, you can do so very gently by hand. It’s still advisable to avoid the windshield area. Luckily, your new windshield will be sparkling clean and definitely won’t need a wash yet!
Wait to Drive
Waiting as long as possible (at least a few hours) to drive your vehicle after the windshield has been installed is very important. Driving can cause unnecessary stress on the fresh adhesive, affecting the seal and potentially putting you and your passengers at risk in case of a future accident.
Don’t Touch That Tape!
Your technician will apply a special type of tape around the edges of the brand-new windshield. This helps the sealing process and keeps things secure and free of debris during the drying process. You might not like how the tape looks, but it’s a good idea to leave it on for at least a few days.
Keep Your Windshield Healthy
There are a few basic steps you can take to ensure the future health of your windshield, avoiding the need for a replacement anytime soon.
You should inspect the windshield fairly regularly, making a note of any chips, cracks, or damage. If you notice anything, it’s very important to repair them as soon as possible to prevent spreading cracks. A cracked windshield might cause structural issues in the vehicle, too, affecting the safety of drivers and passengers. Keeping your car clean will also help you easily identify damage, while also keeping debris and dirt away from the seal.
Avoiding any kind of rapid temperature change is an important practice for keeping your windshield in top condition, too. If you’re tempted to pour hot water over a frozen windshield in the winter, just know that doing so can cause cracks in the surface!
If you’re wondering where to find windshield replacement in Russellville, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, Conway, or virtually anywhere else in Northwest Arkansas, Fast Glass is the place for you! Our mobile glass service allows us to come to you, repairing or replacing your windshield on your schedule.
A safely and correctly installed windshield replacement is something you can expect from our expert glass specialists. We’re trained to do it right the first time, allowing you to get back on the road as safely and securely as possible. If it’s time to replace your windshield, or if you have questions about maintaining a new one, don’t hesitate to call or send us a message!