Urethane is Strong, Butyl is Weak
Urethane is the chemical compound that is used to bond your windshield to the frame of your car. It is an adhesive that holds a pressure rating of over 500 PSI. This rating is important because it indicates the amount of force that the adhesive can withstand before it is broken and the windshield is released from your vehicle. In the past, butyl tape or sealant, another chemical adhesive, was used instead of urethane. It had a pressure rating of around 50 PSI. Make sure that your auto glass shop uses urethane and not butyl.
Glue Must Dry
In general, urethane should be allowed to dry for at least 24 hours before driving. In some cases, the wait may be longer. This may also depend largely on the adhesive used as well as the surrounding temperature and humidity. Make sure to ask your auto glass specialist how much time you should wait before you can use your car. If their estimate seems unusually low, e.g. two hours, go find another specialist. Many poor windshield replacement jobs are the result of poorly bonded adhesive.
Large Windshield Cracks Start Small
Large windshield cracks usually start small. It may begin with a small crack or a sizeable chip that, over time, expands as a result in temperature changes. This is especially the case when living in climates that experience extreme temperature swings. But even in more temperate regions, cars that are subject to cold temperatures (e.g. with the air conditioner on) and then moved into areas of warm temperature, (e.g. a heated garage) can be at higher risk of glass cracking. Glass will expand when heated and contract when cooled, if this expanding and contracting happens repeatedly in a short period of time, a small crack can easily expand into a large one.
Repair before Replacing
Whenever possible, repair your windshield rather than replace it. For minor dents and cracks, repair is almost always the more economical option. In addition, windshield repair eliminates the many complications and safety problems that could arise with improper installation of a replacement windshield. If you must replace your windshield, make sure that you purchase an OEM windshield from a reputable windshield manufacturer. Also investigate the technician that will be performing the replacement. Both the materials and the expertise involved are crucial to a successful installation.
Tax Deductible
Windshield repair or replacement may be covered under the comprehensive section of your car insurance policy. The typical deductible runs around $500, which can save you nearly half the cost of an OEM windshield, which is recommended for windshield replacements. In some states, there are no deductibles or a reduced deductible, saving you even more.
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