Whenever you sense a crack or chip in your windshield, that’s a ticking bomb you must defuse immediately. Those minor damages can turn into ugly marks that endanger your road safety, so you need a windshield replacement. However, some drivers experience cracks in their windshield within a few hours from the replacement, which can be costly. 

While the cracks could be caused by poor installation, damaged windshields depend on your precautions after a replacement job, which is entirely your responsibility. Therefore, you must follow the following aftercare instructions to the letter:

Don’t Go to High-Pressure Car Washes

Although a high-pressure car wash may be your go-to cleaning option if you want a deep clean for your car, you should hold off until the cure and tape pass the 24-hour mark. 

Like internal pressure, a high-pressure wash can exert too much force on an adhesive before it dries well so that it weakens the adhesive’s ability to stay on the car. This is even more crucial if the glue you are using is thin since the car wash’s pressure will make it even more likely to tear away from the frame. 

With this said, avoid high-pressure washes for at least 24 hours after the last coat. If you must do a car wash, then use detergent with a milder alternative and a soft spray to prevent the exertion of pressure on the windshield replacement.

Keep the Windshield Replacement Clear

Stay away from both sides of the windshield replacement for at least 24 hours. This is especially important when placing items on the inside of the windscreen or using the sunshade.

Leave the Car Windows Ajar

High internal pressure exerted on an adhesive seal is one of the most common causes of cracked windshields. Stress tends to build up more in hot weather, such as summer, when it hits the glass and adhesive seal, causing it to leak. This can threaten your and your car’s safety.

To prevent this from happening, roll down your window slightly and let out excess air pressure whenever you enter a hot area. Avoid parking your vehicle in a hot environment for long hours.

Let the Windshield Replacement Cure Properly

When auto technicians install your windshield replacement, they may use urethane adhesives; these form a waterproof seal between the windshield and the frame. While the adhesive is curing, you may have to wait to drive your car. Depending on factors such as humidity and temperature, the glue may take 24 hours to cure. Until then, avoid using your vehicle.

Never Remove the Tape on the Windshield Replacement

During windshield installation, it’s common for auto glass technicians to put tape strips onto the adhesive to prevent any alterations during the drying process. You may be tempted to remove the tape before driving away because it doesn’t look nice, but if you do, the adhesive will be weakened. 

Instead, just like the curing process, leave the tape on for at least 24 hours so that it becomes thoroughly dried and can stick effectively to the windshield when you’re ready to drive.

Conclusion

Windshield replacements are costly since they’re the biggest glass panel in your car. Remember these aftercare tips if you don’t want to spend on another one and waste good money. All you need to do is keep anything and everything clear from your car without touching or removing anything for one day. Instead of paying up to $400 for another windshield replacement, that's a worthy sacrifice!

Visit Save Auto Glass today for a Denver windshield replacement now! We also provide windshield repairs, car window repairs, moon roof installations, and more! We also offer mobile service, so get a quote from us today!