- November 1, 2022
- By ExpertTech
- Uncategorized
If you recently had your windshield replaced, you might be wondering if it will be safe to drive in the rain again. While rain does not pose a major risk to newly installed windows, it will speed up the curing process of the adhesive used in the windshield. The professionals who perform windshield replacement will also use UV lights to dry the resin faster.
Avoiding high-pressure washes
You should avoid high-pressure washes if you’re replacing your windshield after raining. These sprays will loosen the adhesive and could damage the newly-installed windshield. Instead, wait for a few days to hand wash your car. During this time, you can use a mild cleanser and water.
High-pressure washes also damage the new molding on your windshield. This will destroy the adhesive and cause it to shift and pop off. If you’ve replaced your windshield after rain, you must wait two to three days before washing your car again. The temperature is also important because it can affect the setting of the adhesive. After windshield replacement, make sure you don’t park your car in the sun or drive on extremely rough roads.
The auto glass service provider will usually recommend that you wait a few days before washing your car. If you can’t wait that long, ask the technician when you can wash your car. If it’s raining, hand-washing your car is OK, but avoid using high-pressure washes.
Avoiding rough and gravel roads
If you’ve recently had a windshield replacement, you might want to avoid roads with gravel or rough surfaces. These conditions can cause the windshield to shake and not set properly on the frame. Avoiding rough and gravel roads will also help you avoid stressing the windshield adhesive. If you must drive on gravel roads after windshield replacement, try to drive slowly and park somewhere else.
Avoiding extreme temperatures
To prevent stress cracks, avoid driving your car on days with extreme temperature changes. Summer heat is especially harsh on windshields, so try to park in the shade or under a tree to reduce the risk of a crack appearing. Likewise, during the winter months, you need to keep the car warm to prevent frost and snow from forming on the windshield. Also, avoid washing the windshield with hot water because this can damage it.
Even though seasonal weather changes occur gradually, they can still damage your windshield. Extreme temperatures cause glass to contract, which may create new chips or worsen existing cracks. In addition, parked cars in the sun will cause the glass to expand, which may make an already damaged windshield even more brittle.
If you’re replacing your windshield outdoors, you should avoid extreme temperatures. The temperature should be at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit or 21 degrees Celsius. It is important to maintain this range throughout the repair process. If you can’t maintain this temperature, you can use a bubble dome to direct warm air into the area you’re replacing. Additionally, you can use a thermometer to monitor the glass temperature.
Selecting a replacement windshield
When it comes to selecting a replacement windshield after raining, the process is not always simple. Fortunately, you can consult an auto glass expert to help you decide which is the best option for your vehicle. For instance, your windshield may need to be engineered for rain sensing wipers, HUD, or ADAS. Or you may just need a basic, bare-bones replacement.
It is important to select a reputable replacement company. The company should have technicians that are skilled in replacing windshields and are well-experienced. They should use a high-quality adhesive that matches the car manufacturer’s specifications. This adhesive should have a PSI of at least 1,000, so it is guaranteed to hold your windshield in place. Avoid using a cheaper adhesive like urethane, which won’t last.
When choosing a replacement windshield, consider the weather conditions and whether you need the windshield replacement to be completed in an hour or more. Cold weather can make adhesives and primers work slower, so you may want to choose a shop that does this work in a warm location. If the windshield replacement will take a longer period, the technician may adjust the installation. Additionally, make sure the car is completely clean inside, because dirt and grime can compromise the installation.