Most companies will have a standard drive-away time that is anywhere from 30 to 75 minutes. But some windshield replacements can take up to 24 hours to dry.

Besides, Do and don’ts after windshield replacement?


Keep your new windshield in good condition and ensure that it lasts as long as possible by following a few easy tips after installation.

  1. Wait to drive the vehicle.
  2. Leave a window cracked open.
  3. Keep the area inside and out of the car clear.
  4. Don’t remove the retention tape.
  5. Avoid car washes and power washers.

Keeping this in mind, What should you not do after windshield replacement? Avoid power washers or car washes in the meantime.

This means you should avoid automatic car washes, high-pressure car washes, and the use of power washers. If there’s really a need to wash your car in the first two days after a windshield replacement, a regular hand wash is your best bet.

Can I use my wipers after windshield replacement?

You can use your windshield wipers after a crack has been filled. This allows you to drive home. However, most experts recommend you limit your driving for an hour or two, to minimize the windshield wipers from going back and forth over the repaired area, if possible.

Should I tip windshield replacement?

Tips are not a must.

The installers won’t ask for tips. It is only because of your moral obligation that you may consider tipping. So, if for whatever reason, you don’t feel like tipping don’t do it. Let the installer do his/her job and when they are done, thank them for a job well done.

What should I look for after windshield replacement?

Closely examine your windshield replacement install. Look for gaps or bubbles in the seal around your windshield. Make sure the installation technician correctly installed your windshield gasket. Take your car for a test drive to listen for any air noise around the install.

How do I know if my windshield is installed properly?


6 Signs Your Windshield Wasn’t Installed Correctly

  1. Water Leaks Around the Edges. …
  2. You Hear a Whooshing Sound at High Speed. …
  3. The Glass Looks Wavy. …
  4. It’s Not Flush with the Car’s Frame. …
  5. You Hear Rattling Noises. …
  6. The Old Adhesive Is Still There. …
  7. Give Us a Call.

What does blue tape on windshield mean?

Drivers put blue painters tape on windshields in honor of fallen Highway Patrol Trooper Kevin Conner. … She said she saw the painters tape idea three years ago when a woman from Texas started the “back the blue” movement to show law enforcement you support them.

What happens if it rains after you get a new windshield?

Driving Immediately After Having a Windscreen Repaired or Replaced. … Unless it is a very heavy downpour with a chance of hail, your newly repaired or replaced windscreen will be fine.

How long does windshield glue take to dry?

The adhesive must be allowed to dry for at least one hour before you can drive away. After an hour the windshield can handle normal driving. However, the urethane is not secure enough to keep the windshield in place in the event of a collision for at least 8 hours, so drive carefully and go straight home, if possible.

Do you need new wipers with new windshield?

Take a close look at your windshield wipers. Is the rubber all one smooth piece or is it cracked, split, or broken off in places? If you see any imperfections in the rubber, that means it’s time for new wiper blades. The blade may also get a rounded look, which means it’s gotten too old and you should replace it.

Can you tip a glass?

You can tip the glass replacement if you think it did a good job.

Why does Safelite need my keys?

Yes, the technician will need the keys to access your vehicle to confirm that all parts and options are working properly.

Why does my new windshield look wavy?

Your Windshield Looks Wavy or Crooked

Typically this occurs when your windshield has already shifted. However, the shift is so slight that you may not notice it just by looking at your car. However, when you look out the windshield the alignment may be off, which is why it looks crooked or things look wavy.

Why does my windshield squeak after being replaced?

The creaking is either the moulding rubbing against the body or the glass is rubbing against the dash. The latter usually doesn’t go away. A windshield shouldn’t/can’t make noise. The shop probably didn’t reinstall all the trim pieces correctly and that’s where the noise is coming from.

Why is my windshield making noise after replacement?

You Notice a Strange Noise at Higher Speeds

More than likely, what you are hearing is the sound of wind getting into the cracks and crevices where your windshield was incorrectly installed. This noise can range from being barely noticeable to very distinct, depending on how poorly the installation job was done.

How long should I leave the blue tape on my windshield?

During windshield replacement, the auto glass technicians will sometimes use specialized tape to help secure the windshield. Any tape should be left in place for at least 24 hours, preferably longer. Be sure to remove the tape carefully and completely.

What is blue tape mean?

So with that in mind, I have been introduced to the concept of “blue tape”. This refers to extra burdens, placed on business, by other business (or their industry groups).

What does blue tape on a door mean?

Blue tape on the door = This room is clean! If you see blue tape on the door jamb of a room, that door opens into a clean room. If you do not see blue tape on the door of a room, that doesn’t mean the room has not been cleaned recently; only that someone may have used that room since the last cleaning.

What does Safelite do if it’s raining?

Inclement weather makes auto glass installations difficult without cover. If possible, please have shelter available. Will I have to wait with my vehicle during mobile service? No, you don’t need to wait with your vehicle, but please have your car keys available for the technician.

Can rain make a windshield crack worse?

Even a small rock chip in your car’s glass can begin to grow, the longer you drive without repairing it. Another factor is weather; if heavy rain, wind-blown debris, or anything with force behind it hits the crack, your windshield could break right open, exposing you and your loved ones to potential injury.

What kind of glue do you use for a windshield?

Urethane – The Windshield Glue

The glue, or adhesive, used for windshield installations is called urethane . It is a deep black type of glue that gets onto everything it touches.

How often do wiper blades need to be replaced?

The general rule of thumb is to replace your wiper blades every six to twelve months. But depending on where you live and how often you drive, you may need to replace them sooner.

How do you know when windshield wipers need to be replaced?


To determine if your wiper blades are ready to be replaced, look for these telltale signs:

  1. The blades are streaking, smearing or clicking when wiping the windshield. …
  2. The wiper blades have uneven edges and missing pieces. …
  3. Cracks are visible on the wiper blade.

How do you know if you need to replace your windshield wipers?


5 Signs That You Should Replace Your Windshield Wipers

  1. The Rubber On The Blades Is Cracked Or Failing. …
  2. Your Wipers Are Leaving Streaks On Your Windshield. …
  3. You’re Hearing Too Much Squeaking And “Chattering” …
  4. The Frame Of The Blade Is Bent Or Damaged.