3 Things You Can Do To Care For A New Windshield
The windows in your vehicle do more than give you a clear view of the roadways. Auto glass, like your windshield, contributes to the structural stability of your vehicle. An intact windshield will help prevent the cab of your vehicle from collapsing inward during an auto collision.
Cracks or chips can compromise a windshield's ability to contribute to your safety. When you understand how to care for a new windshield in the first few days after installation, you can ensure that your replacement glass will perform efficiently in the future.
1. Keep the Area Clean
An auto glass technician will place your new windshield within the frame of your vehicle, then use a specialized compound to seal the windshield in place. The seal can take several days to dry completely, so it's essential that you don't allow any debris to come into contact with your new windshield during this time.
Clear off your dashboard and avoid using a sunshade to cover the windshield in the first few days after installation. You may want to lift your windshield wipers off the glass as well to prevent any potential contamination.
2. Crack Your Windows
Another simple thing that you can do to ensure your new windshield is as durable as possible is keep the windows cracked slightly on your vehicle during the first few days following installation of the new windshield.
Pressure can build up inside the cab of your vehicle when all windows are closed tightly. This pressure puts stress on the seal as it dries, and it could result in pockets of air infiltrating the seal itself.
These air pockets could contribute to a leaky seal over time, so it's best to avoid the potential for problems by keeping your windows cracked at all times in the days after you replace your windshield.
3. Leave the Retention Tape On
Your auto glass technician will likely place a strip of retention tape around the perimeter of your new windshield once the installation process is complete. This tape doesn't look great, but it does provide a barrier between the seal and the outside environment.
Leave the retention tape in place for a few days so that you can avoid potential contamination as the seal dries completely. Once the seal has fully dried, you can carefully remove the retention tape and toss it in the trash.
It's always a good idea to use caution when caring for a new windshield. How you treat your windshield in the days following installation could have an affect on the long-term performance of the glass.
For more information, reach out to companies like AC Glass Company.