Your windshield is an essential component of your vehicle, providing structural support and protection from the elements. When it’s damaged beyond repair, a windshield replacement becomes necessary. At Alderfer Glass, we understand that replacing your windshield can be daunting, especially if you’ve never experienced the process before. To help put your mind at ease, we’ve created this step-by-step guide to help you prepare for your appointment.

Step 1: Choose a Reputable Auto Glass Service Provider

The first step in preparing for your windshield replacement is selecting a reputable auto glass company. Be sure to choose a provider that uses high-quality materials and employs certified technicians. At Alderfer Glass, our team of experts is committed to providing the highest quality service, ensuring that your windshield is replaced with precision and care.

Step 2: Schedule Your Appointment

Once you’ve chosen a trustworthy auto glass service provider, schedule your appointment at a time that works best for you. Many times this can happen by phone or email to provide convenience.  The Alderfer Glass team is happy to work with your schedule to find a time that is ideal for both of us. 

Step 3: Clear the Surrounding Area

Before your appointment, remove any personal items from your vehicle’s dashboard and clear the area around the windshield. This will give the technician easy access to the windshield and prevent any accidental damage to your belongings. You may also want to remove any stickers or decals that may interfere with the replacement process, although we will take care of your inspection and registration stickers by returning them on a portion of the old glass.

Step 4: Make Sure Your Vehicle is Clean

A clean vehicle ensures a smooth windshield replacement process. Dirt and debris can interfere with the urethane adhesive used to bond the new windshield to your vehicle’s frame. Before your appointment, give your car a quick cleaning, paying attention to the exterior around the windshield and the front seat and dash area(s).

Step 5: Allow Ample Time for the Replacement Process

Windshield replacement typically takes between one and half to two and half hours. However, it’s important to remember that the urethane adhesive used to secure the new windshield requires time to cure properly in addition to the replacement time. To ensure your new windshield is safely bonded to your vehicle, a safe drive time will be provided, so you will need to avoid driving the vehicle for at least one hour after the replacement is completed. Be sure to ask your technician for specific curing times based on the type of adhesive used.

Step 6: Understand the Process

Having a basic understanding of the windshield replacement process can help put your mind at ease during your appointment. Here’s an overview of what to expect:

1. The technician will begin by inspecting and protecting the interior and exterior of your vehicle surrounding the windshield.
2. Using specialized tools, the technician will carefully remove the damaged windshield by cutting the windshield free from the urethane adhesive that holds it in place.
3. Once the old windshield is removed, the technician will clean the body area, removing any remaining adhesive and debris.
4. The technician will then apply a fresh layer of urethane adhesive to the vehicle body, ensuring a strong bond for the new windshield.
5. The new windshield will be carefully positioned, set for location, and pressed into place, creating a tight seal between the glass and the body components.
6. Any additional components, such as wipers or molding, will generally be re-used and reattached to the new windshield and body area.
7. Finally, the technician will clean the newly installed windshield and provide you with any necessary care instructions and safe drive away time.

Step 7: Post-Windshield Replacement Care

After your windshield replacement in Doylestown, PA, follow these tips to ensure the longevity of your new auto glass:

• Keep the tape and retention moldings in place for as long as recommended (or at least 24 hours) to maintain the moulding location and help with integrity of the seal.

• Avoid power car washes for 24 hours if possible.

• It is not a bad idea to crack your windows slightly for the first 24 hours to help temperature and cure of adhesive, and to prevent pressure buildup inside your vehicle.

• Avoid slamming doors or driving on rough terrain for the first 24 hours.

Call Alderfer Glass Today

A windshield replacement doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By following this step-by-step guide and choosing a reputable auto glass service provider like Alderfer Glass, you can feel confident that your vehicle is in good hands. Remember to follow the post-replacement care instructions to ensure your new windshield serves you well for years to come.

If you need windshield replacement in Doylestown, PA, or any other auto glass services, give us a call today, and we’ll be in touch shortly. Thanks for choosing our trusted team to take care of your vehicle!