Auto Glass Replacement Process

When your windshield is damaged and a car windshield repair isn’t possible, the only option you’re left with is getting a replacement.

Replacing your windshield not only eliminates chips and cracks, but it also restores your vehicle’s overall safety. A new, properly installed windshield contributes to more than 70% of the car’s support and integrity should you be involved in a roll-over accident.

If you’ve never replaced your windshield before, you’re probably wondering what takes place after scheduling an appointment for a replacement. Let’s delve deeper into the car windshield replacement process.

1. Prepping Your Vehicle

Before the actual car windshield replacement begins, the technician will first set up the work area so that your vehicle doesn’t suffer any damages in the process. they’ll cover your hood and dash with towels and outline the old windshield using protective tape to prevent dust from getting in the ducts and inside your car. They’ll also carefully remove your rearview mirror, windshield wipers, and cowl, which is the lower part of your windshield where the wipers are located. Remember, the old rearview mirror may need to be reattached if the new windshield doesn’t come with a new one.

2. Removing the Old, Broken Windshield

The mechanic begins by unfastening the molding to remove your damaged windshield. This is the strip of rubber and/or chrome that offers an additional seal between the car and the windshield. They then slice through the urethane adhesive using a special knife to push your windshield out of its frame with ease.

The technician then lifts the windshield away from your vehicle using large suction cups. These cups minimize windshield breakage risk, although further damage may be inevitable if brute force is applied. However, you shouldn’t be worried as it’s part of the car windshield replacement process.

3. Readying the New Windshield for Replacement

Your vehicle is prepared before the new windshield is fixed. Using the full-cut method, the technician cuts away any traces of molding that may still be lingering. They strip down the urethane close enough to the metal frame and coat the frame with new urethane. This fresh urethane lets the new molding form a bond between the vehicle’s windshield and the metal frame.

4. Installing the New Windshield

The technician then starts by lowering the windshield to mark where it’ll fit. Once the urethane has been applied, the windshield should not be moved around. They then apply a sticky substance to the surfaces with a caulking gun to set the auto glass. They then place the windshield into position with the guide of the marks that were made before.

5. Final Touches

Once the windshield is installed, the expert installs molding, windshield wipers, cowl, and the rearview mirror. They also clean up any debris or broken glasses inside and outside your vehicle.

6. Wait and Test

Your vehicle isn’t ready for driving yet immediately after the installation is complete. You have to allow the urethane to harden first. If you don’t, your windshield can come off when you brake abruptly.

The hardening process can be affected by temperature, humidity, and the type of urethane used. However, your technician will help you determine the safe drive-away time.

The windshield replacement process is complex and requires training, specialty materials, and tools. Regardless, the windshield has to be correctly installed to meet the safety requirements of the factory-installed windshield. Contact Auto Glass Services NW today for car windshield replacement and windshield repair services in Portland, OR, and nearby cities.