Your car's windshield is far more than just some piece of glass. It's a vital safety element in your car. Its important role is the reason why you need to make sure that your windshield is replaced properly. In fact, if your car's windshield is broken, it's imperative that you understand the important factors for having the job done right. If you're considering having your windshield replaced, here are some of the things that you need to know and think about.
Consider The Glass Quality
One of the most important things to discuss with your windshield replacement contractor is what type of glass they plan to use for your new windshield. Remember that low-quality glass isn't going to provide you with the same level of protection that you would get from higher quality glass, such as OEM windshields.
It's important that you make sure that your new windshield is crafted from high-quality glass. This ensures that your car's structural integrity is not threatened by weaker, lower-quality windshield glass that could fail to withstand the same pressure and impact that high-quality windshields will.
Ensure Professional Installation
The installation of your windshield is an essential component of its safety and protection. That's why it's important that you don't try to replace your windshield yourself. This is especially true with modern windshields that are equipped with all sorts of sensors and other digital components because you have to be sure that everything is installed and connected properly.
Additionally, windshield installations require precise preparation of the windshield channel, the gaskets, and the sealant to ensure that your windshield is not only properly seated, but sealed to ensure that it is airtight and secure. While the job may seem simple enough, it is best left to a professional for your own safety.
Ask About Warranties
One of the benefits of professional windshield installation is the fact that most companies will warranty their work. If the windshield should fail, leak, or exhibit other problems within a certain time period after installation, you can usually bring it back to the shop for them to address the problem under that warranty coverage.
If you want complete confidence that your windshield was properly installed and will be safe, you should look for a repair shop that stands behind their work with a warranty. Shops that provide a warranty often do so because they know that their installation services are done properly, and they care about driver safety.
Understand The Aftercare
The actual windshield replacement is only the first step in the process. You will need to be sure that you take proper care of the car for the first 24 to 48 hours after the windshield installation to ensure the best possible results.
It can take as much as 24 hours or more for the windshield sealant to cure, with humidity, moisture, and cold weather also affecting that time. Look for a shop that will allow your car to sit for several hours in a climate-controlled environment after the installation, and understand that you'll need to avoid washing your car for at least the first 24 hours.
Leave a window rolled down an inch or so for the first 24 hours as well, because this will allow for pressure to escape as the sealant cures. Avoid slamming the car doors for the first day or so as well. The impact from this can disrupt the sealing process and cause your windshield to fail.
It is a good idea to watch for any signs of leaks and listen for heavy wind noise or other unusual sounds in the days following a windshield replacement, too. If you notice anything like this, talk with your windshield replacement contractor as soon as possible to address the problem.