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Auto Glass Replacement & Repair
What You Should Expect When Having a Windshield Replaced?
At Maxx Glass, we are mindful of the processes that are embedded in every aspect of the windshield replacement process. From start to finish, we strictly follow all standard auto glass protocol while continually evolving with the ever-changing automotive industry to ensure we are leveraging the most efficient and effective operations. By maintaining the highest levels of safety and quality through every phase of the job, we have been able to uphold our reputation as one of the area's leading businesses in the auto glass replacement industry.
Removing Your Old Windshield
To begin removing your old windshield, the technician first unfastens the molding-the strip of chrome and/or rubber that provides an extra seal between the windshield and the vehicle (older automobiles will likely have molding around the entire windshield, some newer vehicles have less or none). Sometimes the molding can be reused, but often it must be replaced.Your installer will use a special knife to cut through the urethane adhesive keeping your current windshield in place and push the windshield out of the frame. Since the removal requires brute force, usually the windshield cracks considerably, and if you're watching the replacement, you may be alarmed. Not to worry, it's all part of the process. The technician will store the old windshield glass in his vehicle to be recycled, so you don't have to worry about disposing of it.
Preparing The New Windshield For Installation
After the old glass is out of the frame, the installer will use what's called the “full cut” method to strip the old urethane down as close as possible to the metal frame, allowing the new urethane to bond properly to the frame and windshield. With the old urethane gone, the technician will prime both the frame (as needed) and new windshield surfaces. This ensures that no contamination occurs-preventing leaks and ensuring a strong bond-so the new windshield meets the same safety standards as the original factory-installed windshield.
Installing Your New Windshield
Your technician now “dry sets” the windshield, lowering it into place to mark exactly where it will fit, since the windshield shouldn't be moved around once the urethane has been applied. Using a special attachment to a caulking gun-type tool, the installer will then apply the adhesive to the appropriate surfaces. He will carefully place the new windshield into the opening, using the marks he made earlier in the process as guides. When your installer is working with your new windshield, he wears disposable gloves to avoid contaminating the edge of the windshield with his bare hands.
The Finishing Touches
After the windshield has been installed, your installer will then install your molding, cowl, rear view mirror, and windshield wipers. He'll clean up any broken glass or debris in and around your vehicle.
A Safe Drive-Away Time
The installation is finished, but your vehicle isn't ready to drive yet. First, the urethane must fully harden, or "cure." The amount of time this takes depends on the kind of urethane used, the temperature, and the humidity. Your installer will calculate a safe "drive-away" time for you. After your installer is completely finished with the windshield installation, he should have some paperwork for you to sign. If you're not around for the installation, he will leave the paperwork in your car, as well as a tag letting you know when you can drive your car. You may also notice that one or two of your vehicle's windows have been left open a crack. That's so that if you open or close your door before the urethane has fully cured, the changing air pressure inside the car won't dislodge the windshield.
Enjoy Your New Windshield!
At Maxx Auto Glass we properly install your auto glass so it will meet the safety specifications of the original factory-installed windshield as well as the department of transportation safety standards.