Complete Windshield Replacement | 4 General Steps

Complete Windshield Replacement

A technician generally performs the process of windshield repair, and involves several steps:

1. Preparation: The technician will first thoroughly clean the area around the damage, removing any dirt, debris, or moisture that could interfere with the repair process.
2. Resin injection: A small drill bit might create a tiny access point within the crack to ensure proper resin penetration. Similar to clear plastic, a special resin is injected into the crack or chip, filling the entire damaged area.
3. Resin curing: Ultraviolet light is applied to the injected resin, causing it to harden and cure. This process typically takes around 30 minutes.
4. Finishing: Once the resin is cured, the technician will scrape any excess material from the windshield’s surface. They may also polish the area to restore clarity and minimize imperfections.

Here are some additional points to keep in mind:

• This process is most effective for small cracks or chips, typically no larger than a quarter inch in diameter.
• The repair won’t completely eliminate the damage, but it can significantly improve the windshield’s strength and clarity and prevent further cracks from developing.
• Windshield repair is generally faster and more affordable than windshield replacement.

If you’re considering windshield repair, it’s important to consult with a qualified technician to assess the damage and determine if repair is suitable for your specific case.

Here’s a breakdown of the typical process for a complete windshield replacement:

1. Preparation:
   • The technician will protect your car’s interior with drop cloths to prevent debris or urethane from getting inside.
   • They will then carefully remove components like wipers and the rearview mirror (if attached to the windshield) and trim pieces around the windshield perimeter.
2. Removing the old windshield:
   • The technician will use a special tool, such as a cold knife, to carefully cut through the urethane sealant that bonds the windshield to the car frame (pinch weld).
   • Once the urethane seal is cut, they carefully remove the old windshield using suction cups or other tools.
3. Cleaning and prepping the pinch weld:
   • The technician will thoroughly clean the pinch weld area to remove old urethane residue, dirt, or debris. This ensures a good bond for the new windshield.
   • Sometimes, they might apply a primer to the pinch weld to further enhance adhesion.
4. Installing the new windshield:
   • The technician will carefully position the new windshield into the pinch weld.
   • They will then apply a bead of urethane sealant around the entire perimeter of the pinch weld where the new windshield will sit.
   • The new windshield is then carefully pressed into place and secured using temporary supports to ensure proper alignment and bonding.
5. Curing and finishing:
   • The urethane sealant needs time to cure and harden to create a strong bond between the windshield and the car frame. Depending on the weather conditions and the type of urethane used, this curing process can take anywhere from a few hours to a day.
   • Once the urethane has cured, the technician will remove the temporary supports and reinstall the wipers, rearview mirror, and other trim pieces.
   • They will also clean up any excess urethane sealant and inspect the windshield for proper fit and seal.

Important notes:

• In some cases, especially for vehicles with Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), the windshield replacement process might require recalibration of the ADAS cameras or sensors after installing the new windshield.
• It’s advisable to avoid driving your car for at least a few hours after the windshield replacement to allow the urethane sealant to cure properly. Consult the technician for specific recommendations on drive time based on the urethane used and weather conditions.

The main difference between windshield repair and windshield replacement lies in the extent of the damage and the repairability of the windshield. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

Windshield Repair:

• Suitable for: Small cracks (typically no larger than a dollar bill) and chips (usually smaller than a quarter inch). These damages shouldn’t be in the driver’s direct line of sight.
• Process: A resin is injected into the crack or chip, then cured with ultraviolet light to fill and strengthen the damaged area. The repair usually takes 30-45 minutes.
• Benefits: More affordable than replacement, quicker turnaround time, retains the original windshield.
• Drawbacks: It might leave a slight visible mark and may not be suitable for all types of damage.

Windshield Replacement:

• Suitable for: Larger cracks (longer than a dollar bill), spiderweb cracks, deep scratches, cracks in the driver’s direct line of sight, delamination (separation of the windshield layers), or any damage that compromises the windshield’s structural integrity. If your car has ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems), a windshield replacement is also necessary after a windshield replacement.
• Process: The old windshield is carefully removed using specialized tools, the installation area is prepped, and a new windshield is bonded to the car frame with urethane adhesive. The entire process typically takes 2-3 hours.
• Benefits: Restores full clarity and structural integrity to the windshield and eliminates cracks and chips for optimal visibility.
• Drawbacks: More expensive than repair, takes longer, and may require ADAS recalibration afterward.

Here’s a simple rule of thumb: A repair might be suitable if the damage is small and doesn’t significantly impact your vision. A replacement is necessary for larger cracks, compromised visibility, or specific types of damage. Consulting a professional for an inspection is always recommended to determine the best course of action for your windshield.

A windshield replacement company specializes in repairing or replacing damaged windshields on vehicles. They typically employ trained technicians who can assess the extent of the damage. And determine if a repair or replacement is necessary.

Here are some of the services a windshield replacement company might offer:

• Windshield repair: Technicians can inject a special resin to fill the damage and restore clarity and strength for small cracks and chips.
• Windshield replacement: They can remove and dispose of your old windshield and install a new one, following proper safety procedures.
• Mobile windshield repair or replacement: Some companies offer the convenience of having a technician come to your location to perform the repair or replacement.
• ADAS recalibration: After a windshield replacement, recalibration of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) might be necessary to ensure these systems function correctly. Not all windshield replacement companies offer recalibration, so be sure to inquire if it’s a service they provide.

When choosing a complete windshield replacement company, consider factors like reputation, customer reviews, warranty options on the windshield and repair work, and whether they offer mobile services.