Your car's windshield is one of the most important components in keeping you safe. A windshield that is cracked or needs repairs could become a safety hazard. For example, if you are in accident, the result could be that dangerous shards of glass fly everywhere. In fact, if the integrity of the windshield is compromised enough, an incident as benign as an animal resting on it, snowing piling up on it or hail hitting it just right could be the trigger that shatters it when you least expect it. When getting your windshield repaired, you expect it to be installed correctly. Sometimes that does not always happen, though. Here are a few ways to determine if your windshield has been installed incorrectly.
1. The installer was sans gloves
In order to offer the utmost in protection for your windshield, it is crucial that the installer wears gloves while performing the job. If gloves are not worn during this process, natural oils found on the skin of the installer could create issues when it comes to the new urethane adhering correctly. Gloves made of 100 percent nitrile are often found in the tool boxes of top-notch professional glass installers for this exact reason.
2. The old adhesive was not removed
Your windshield is attached to the frame of your car by workers at the factory using adhesive or urethane. This area -- known as the pinch weld -- is saturated with a bead of material that must be completely removed to allow the new adhesive to have a place where it can effectively create a weather-proof barrier. In addition, the pinch weld needs to be cleaned effectively before the new windshield is installed.
3. The new windshield does not sit flush
Replacement glass that is recommended by the manufacturer of your vehicle is crucial in ensuring that it fits properly within the opening. Glass that is pulled from salvage yards would likely not meet this requirement and are a common reason for having a windshield that does not fit within the opening of your vehicle properly.
4. The molding is bumpy around the windshield
Often caused by the windshield installer using molding that is not the right type for your vehicle, the problem of bumpy molding can only be fixed by taking the windshield out of the vehicle and redoing the job. This defect can also be caused by using bulk molding that is not specified as being designed for your vehicle.
Only 1 Auto Glass is your Twin Cities-area windshield repair expert. With more than 150 years of experience combined within the auto glass industry, they ensure that your windshield is installed correctly -- the first time. Contact them today for an appointment or for more information.