5 Things You Shouldn't Do After Having Your Auto Glass Replaced

Have you recently had or plan to have your vehicle's windshield replaced? If so, you should know that the way you treat this glass over the next few days can have a huge impact on how well your new auto glass holds up over the next several years. That is why it is so important for you to take the time to review the following list of five things you shouldn't do after having your auto glass replaced.

1. Don't Use Automatic Car Washes

Automatic car washes use high-pressure water sources that are able to damage or shift the molding around your new auto glass. Consequently, these high-pressure washes should be avoided for at least a few days after having a new windshield installed. However, some glass technicians will recommend waiting as long as a week or more before resuming the use of this type of car wash. If you must wash your vehicle during this time, you will simply need to rely on a traditional hand wash job in order to get your vehicle clean.

2. Don't Remove Retention Tape

Retention tape is often placed around the entire perimeter of your new auto glass in order to help add some additional protection while the seal around this new glass is drying. While this tape can have a negative impact on how your vehicle looks, it plays an important part in protecting the glass sealant from the elements while it is drying. This tape can safely be removed after a few days, but it must remain in place until then.

3. Don't Allow Pressure To Build Inside Of Vehicle

When all of the windows and doors to your vehicle are closed, air pressure will begin to build up inside your vehicle. This pressure can put a lot of unnecessary strain on your new windshield. In order to prevent this pressure buildup, it is recommended that you leave a window cracked at all times in the days directly following the installation of your new auto glass. 

4. Don't Use A Sunshade Or Car Cover

While the sealant around your new windshield may be dry enough to allow you to drive the vehicle, it can take several days for this sealant to dry completely. Until this sealant is completely dry, it is possible for debris and other items to stick to the sealant and compromise the integrity of your new auto glass. For this reason, it is important to keep all items away from your new auto glass. This includes the use of a sunshade on your dash or a car cover over the exterior of your vehicle.

5. Don't Drive In Poorly Maintained Areas

While your new windshield should be capable of standing up to most road conditions within a relatively short amount of time after installation, you will want to avoid putting unnecessary stress on your new glass until the seals are fully cured. This means avoiding unpaved roads, roads with large potholes, and other poorly maintained areas that will result in a bumpy ride. 

For more information, contact an auto glass replacement service near you.