After getting an auto glass replacement, it is important to follow a few simple do’s and don’ts to ensure that the glass is properly installed and maintained.
DOs
Do: Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and follow them. The instructions will provide important information on how to care for your new auto glass, including how long to wait before driving the car and how to clean the glass. It is important to follow these instructions closely to ensure that the glass is properly installed and maintained.
Do: Drive slowly and carefully until the adhesive has had time to cure. The adhesive used to install the auto glass needs time to set and harden in order to provide a strong, secure bond. Driving too fast or making sudden stops and turns can put unnecessary stress on the adhesive and potentially cause it to fail.
Do: Keep the inside of the car clean and dry for at least 24 hours. This will allow the adhesive to properly cure without any interference from moisture or debris. Avoid washing the car or rolling down the windows for at least 24 hours after the replacement to give the adhesive time to set.
Don’ts
Don’t: Wash the inside or outside of the car for at least 24 hours. As mentioned above, it is important to give the adhesive time to set and harden before washing the car. Water and soap can also potentially interfere with the curing process, so it is best to avoid washing the car for at least 24 hours after the replacement.
Don’t: Remove the protective tape or plugs from the windows until the adhesive has fully cured. The protective tape and plugs are put in place to protect the edges of the glass and keep debris out while the adhesive sets. Removing these before the adhesive is fully cured can cause problems with the installation and potentially lead to leaks or other issues.
Maintaining and cleaning your new auto glass
Proper maintenance and cleaning of your new auto glass is important to ensure that it stays in good condition and provides clear visibility while driving. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to follow when it comes to maintaining and cleaning your new auto glass:
DOs
Do: Use a soft, microfiber cloth to clean the inside and outside of the windows. Microfiber cloths are gentle on the glass and won’t scratch or damage the surface. They are also good at picking up dust and dirt without leaving behind lint or streaks.
Do: Use a glass cleaner specifically designed for auto glass. Regular glass cleaners may contain harsh chemicals or abrasives that can damage the surface of the glass or interfere with the adhesive. Using a cleaner specifically designed for auto glass will help to protect the glass and keep it in good condition.
Do: Be gentle when cleaning the edges of the glass where it meets the frame. The edges of the glass can be particularly sensitive, as they are held in place by the adhesive. Be careful when wiping around the edges and avoid applying too much pressure, as this can cause the adhesive to loosen or fail.
Don’ts
Don’t: Use abrasive or harsh cleaning products on the glass. Harsh chemicals or abrasives can damage the surface of the glass or interfere with the adhesive. Stick with a gentle, auto glass-specific cleaner to keep the glass in good condition.
Don’t: Use paper towels or other rough materials to clean the glass. Paper towels and other rough materials can scratch the surface of the glass and potentially cause damage. Stick with a soft, microfiber cloth for best results.
Driving after an auto glass replacement
It is important to take it easy on the roads after getting an auto glass replacement, as the adhesive needs time to properly cure and set. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to follow when it comes to driving after an auto glass replacement:
DOs
Do: Avoid sudden stops and starts. Sudden stops and starts can put unnecessary stress on the adhesive and potentially cause it to fail. Take it easy on the roads and avoid making any sudden movements until the adhesive has had time to properly cure.
Do: Take turns slowly and gently. Just like with sudden stops and starts, taking turns too quickly or aggressively can put unnecessary stress on the adhesive and potentially cause it to fail. Take it slow and gentle on the turns until the adhesive has had time to properly cure.
Do: Keep a safe distance from other vehicles on the road. This will give you plenty of time to react to any sudden movements or changes in traffic, which can help to reduce the stress on the adhesive.
Don’ts
Don’t: Roll down the windows for at least 24 hours. Rolling down the windows too soon after the replacement can cause the adhesive to fail and potentially lead to leaks or other issues. Wait at least 24 hours after the replacement before rolling down the windows.
Don’t: Put too much pressure on the glass, such as leaning on it or pressing hard against it. The glass is held in place by the adhesive, so applying too much pressure can potentially cause the adhesive to fail. Avoid leaning on the glass or pressing against it too hard until the adhesive has had time to properly cure.
Protecting your auto glass from future damage
There are a few simple steps you can take to protect your auto glass from future damage. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to follow:
DOs
Do: Use a windshield sun shade to prevent the glass from overheating in hot weather. The sun can be very intense, especially during the summer months, and can cause the glass to become overheated. Using a windshield sun shade can help to protect the glass and keep it in good condition.
Do: Use a car cover to protect the car from hail, falling branches, and other debris. A car cover can provide an extra layer of protection for your car, helping to keep it safe from the elements and any falling debris.
Do: Park in a garage or covered area whenever possible. This will help to protect the car from the sun, rain, and other elements, which can all cause damage to the auto glass over time.
Don’ts
Don’t: Place heavy objects on the dashboard or front seat where they can fall and damage the glass. The weight of heavy objects can potentially cause the adhesive to fail, leading to leaks or other issues. Be mindful of what you place on the dashboard or front seat, and avoid placing heavy objects in these areas.
Don’t: Ignore small chips or cracks in the glass, as they can quickly turn into bigger problems. It is important to address small chips or cracks in the glass as soon as possible, as they can quickly turn into bigger problems if left unchecked. Have any chips or cracks repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
What to do if you experience issues with your auto glass replacement?
If you experience any issues with your auto glass replacement, it is important to address them as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to follow if you experience issues:
DOs
Do: Contact the auto glass company as soon as you notice any issues with the glass. The company will be able to provide guidance on how to address the issue and may be able to provide a repair or replacement if necessary.
Do: Keep the receipts and documentation related to the replacement handy. Having the receipts and documentation on hand will make it easier to address any issues that may arise and will help to ensure that you are covered under any warranties or guarantees.
Do: Follow the company’s instructions for handling any issues that may arise. The company will be able to provide specific instructions on how to address any issues that may arise, so it is important to follow their guidance to ensure that the issue is properly addressed.
Don’ts
Don’t: Attempt to fix the issue yourself, as this can often make the problem worse. Auto glass replacements can be complex and require specialized tools and equipment to properly repair or replace. Attempting to fix the issue yourself can often make the problem worse, so it is best to leave it to the professionals.
Don’t: Ignore the issue and hope it will go away on its own, as this can lead to more serious problems down the road. Ignoring the issue will not make it go away, and it will only get worse over time. Address any issues as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your auto glass is in good working order.