Learn About the Windshield Replacement Process

One of the most important safety features of your vehicle is the windshield. It provides structural integrity and shields everyone. When your windshield is damage-free, you’re ensured clear visibility while driving. However, windshields can succumb to the occasional damage from a myriad of sources like flying debris, rocks, accidents, and even vandalism. 

Sometimes the damage is small like a tiny rock chip and it can be repaired but other times the damage is too severe to repair and a full windshield replacement is necessary. Today we’re going to educate you on the windshield replacement process so you can be confident in your choices. 

When is a Windshield Replacement Necessary?

As we mentioned earlier, not all windshield damage requires a full replacement. There are some situations when a reputable auto glass technician can repair your windshield. But, if the damage is spread across your windshield or if the integrity of the windshield is compromised replacing the windshield is the safer option. 

Common Situations When Windshield Replacement Is Necessary

Large Cracks or Chips: If the damage on your windshield is a crack longer than three inches repair may not be possible. This is also the case with deep chips or damage that is larger than a quarter. 

Compromised Visibility: If the damage obstructs the driver’s ability to see the road it’s considered a dangerous situation. It doesn’t matter how small it is, you’ll need a windshield replacement 

Structural Integrity Issues: Depth is important too because a chip that’s too far in can affect the strength of the windshield. Damage with depth can pose a risk to the overall safety of the vehicle. 

Advanced Damage: If there is damage in more than one area of your windshield or if it’s near the edge you will probably need to replace it. 

The Windshield Replacement Process

While there are specific steps in a typical windshield replacement, the process is a delicate job and requires an auto glass replacement technician with expertise to ensure proper installation and safety. Here are the steps you can expect the technician you hire to take when replacing your windshield. 

1. Assessment and Inspection

The technician you speak to on the phone will give you a quote to replace the windshield on your vehicle, but they will also assess the damage when you bring your vehicle into the shop. They want to make sure repair is out of the question before replacing. But, in most cases, replacement is the best step to take so the technician will check for any other damage in the surrounding areas. 

2. Selecting the Right Windshield for Your Vehicle

For many vehicles, consumers have choices when it comes to windshield replacement. You can go with OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) glass, which is a windshield designed by the manufacturer who installed the original windshield that came with your vehicle. A less expensive option is aftermarket glass, but the OEM is always recommended because it’s created to fit your vehicle’s specifications. 

3. Preparation

The technician will want to prepare your vehicle properly to ensure safe installation. They may need to remove the wipers and other parts like the rearview mirror. Then they will clean the area around the windshield to remove dirt, debris, and any old adhesive. 

4. Remove the Damaged Windshield

Using specialized tools to take the damaged windshield out of its frame. This part of the process typically involves cutting through the adhesive so the windshield can be removed easily. The technician will take care not to damage the frame while removing the old damaged windshield. 

5. Installation

The technician will apply a fresh layer of adhesive to the vehicle frame. Then they will place the new windshield onto the adhesive while making sure the glass is properly aligned with the frame. Then the tech will press it firmly so a tight seal and proper alignment are ensured. 

6. Final Check and Clean-Up

Once the new windshield is in place the technician will inspect their work to make sure the new windshield is aligned correctly and the bond is secure. They will clean up any excess adhesive and reinstall any hardware they removed. The technician will do a final test to rule out leaks or other issues. 

Post-Replacement Care

While the technician has completed their job, they will leave you with instructions on how to care for your new windshield, especially in the first few days after installation.

• No Heavy Cleaning for 24-48 Hours: You want the adhesive to form a strong bond between the frame and the new windshield. The pressure of a car wash is too much for the newly bonded glass to take. 

• Wait to Drive: Try to not drive your vehicle for a few hours after the replacement to give the adhesive time to set and bond. 

• Keep an Eye on the Seal: As time passes, keep your eye out for any gaps or leaks. Water coming through in a rainstorm is an indication of a poorly placed windshield. 

What Does an Average Windshield Replacement Cost?

There are a ton of factors that go into the cost of a windshield replacement like the make, model, and year of your vehicle. For the most part, you can expect to pay anywhere between $275 and $1,200, depending on the factors we already mentioned. The price will also depend on whether your vehicle has ADAS technology, which requires calibration.

What is ADAS Technology?

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are all the safety features that come with your car like parking assist and adaptive cruise control. A great deal of the technology for those safety features is embedded in and around the windshield. So your new windshield will need a calibration to ensure your ADAS technology is working properly. 

Do You Need a Windshield Replacement in Baltimore, MD, or Harrisburg, PA?

If you need a windshield replacement in the Baltimore, MD, or Harrisburg, PA areas contact us at Empire Auto Glass. We accept all major insurance providers and will work directly with them so you don’t have to. Empire Auto Glass also offers a lifetime warranty on all of our workmanship and our technicians are certified to replace windshields on all types of vehicles.