There are a lot of reasons why windshields crack, whether from the hot temperature paired with sunlight or foreign objects (like gravel from a road or a baseball). Whatever the case, a windshield crack that isn’t promptly fixed almost always results in the need for a windshield replacement.

If you’re like most drivers, you’re probably wondering, “What can’t you do after a windshield replacement?” Arizona Auto Glass Pros answers that and more in this blog.

Avoid Driving Right Away

The biggest thing you cannot do following a windshield replacement is immediately drive. Windshield replacements use a special adhesive to form a waterproof seal between your frame and shield. Most adhesives require some time after to properly—and safely—adhere to the car.

How Soon After Can You Drive?

This depends on who performs your windshield replacement. If you go with the experts at AZ Auto Glass, you can safely drive after 30 minutes of having your windshield replaced. But if you go with another company, they might use more traditional adhesives that require three to five hours.

One important caveat is to consider the weather. Rain can drastically affect the adhesive sealing, so, if possible, try to schedule a windshield replacement when the weather won’t negatively impact it. A complete, waterproof seal also takes between 24 to 48 hours for a windshield replacement. But you can still drive before this time period.

Avoid Removing the Windshield Tape

Most auto glass technicians place tape on the adhesive for a replacement. This stops any dirt or debris from altering the adhesive drying process. The tape is crucial for a safe, effective windshield replacement process.

We understand that the tape might not look the best; after all, it can be bright and appear out of place. But if you remove it, you can decrease the strength of the adhesive. So, avoid removing the windshield replacement tape for at least 24 hours.

Don’t Keep the Windows Up

Cracking your windows just a bit can help reduce internal pressure. This is helpful because a high internal pressure is one of the biggest reasons why windshields crack in the first place. While air pressure builds up more from the heat, the winter can still have negative effects for a windshield. 

Lowering your car’s windows after a windshield replacement helps prevent any leaks from the high pressure exerted on the seal. By doing this, you provide an easy way for pressure to escape. What goes hand-in-hand with this is avoiding excessively hot parking spots for your vehicle.

Avoid High-Pressure Washes

While a routine high-pressure car wash is great for your vehicle, it can cause damage soon after a windshield replacement. High-pressure washes, similar to high-pressure build-up within your car, exert too much force on the replacement adhesive. This causes it to dry out quickly and lose some of its strength. We recommend waiting at least 24 hours before taking your car through a high-pressure wash.

Try Not to Get Anything on the Windshield

Keeping your windshield clear from any dirt or debris after a replacement is a must. It can either stick to the wet adhesive or ruin the seal. Eventually, this can lead to leaks and cracks. Parking your vehicle in a garage for the first 24 hours is highly recommended. If you can’t do that, be sure to monitor the windshield in case of any potential objects that can harm the adhesive drying process.

Contact AZ Auto Glass for a Free Quote

Do you need a windshield replacement or even recalibration? Then trust the AZ Auto Glass Pros to get the job done right. We’re the area’s most trusted service provider for all types of auto glass services. Contact us today for a free quote!