What to Expect During the Windshield Replacement Process

We love our vehicles because they give us the freedom to travel and a sense of independence that can’t be matched. That’s why it hurts us so badly when we discover our windshield has been damaged. Some windshield damage goes beyond a little rock chip or crack. Sometimes, our windshield suffers from damage so severe, the entire windshield needs to be replaced. 

If you found yourself in this situation, we commend you for doing your research to learn about the windshield replacement process. In this blog, we’re going to go over every step of the process so you feel emboldened to make the right decision moving forward. 

Step One: Find a Reputable Auto Glass Replacement Service

Before anything, you want to research your local auto glass replacement services. You’ll find there are corporate companies and small, independent auto glass services. We highly recommend going with an independent auto glass company for many reasons. 

Small, independent companies tend to offer more personalized service and greater flexibility. Don’t forget to read the Google reviews. You can learn a lot about customer satisfaction or lack thereof. Also, make sure you aren’t overcharged. A windshield replacement typically costs around $300, depending on the make and model. 

Step Two: Find Your Insurance Policy

Some insurance policies will cover a windshield replacement, but you’ll likely have to meet your deductible. If you have liability coverage then you won’t be covered because liability only covers damage you inflict on others. 

If you have comprehensive, or “full” coverage, then there’s a good chance you will be covered, but again, you will probably have to meet the deductible. If you are unsure and need help, a reputable independent auto glass company will have employees on hand who can help you through the claims process. 

Step Three: Assessment

When you call a reputable auto glass company, the technician will ask a series of questions. From these questions, they will be able to tell you if you need a full replacement or if a repair would suffice.

Step Four: Make Your Appointment

Next, the technician will make an appointment that fits your schedule. You can choose to bring your vehicle into a shop or you can select mobile auto glass replacement services. Both come with their own set of benefits and only you can decide which path works best for you. 

From there you will either bring your car to the shop for your scheduled appointment or the mobile auto service you selected will come to you on your chosen time and date. 

Step Five: Getting Prepared

Now that it’s your appointment time and it’s been decided that you do need a full windshield replacement, the technician will first get your vehicle ready for the job. This means they will take steps to protect both the interior and exterior of your vehicle by covering the dashboard and any area adjacent to the windshield. 

Step Six: Removal

Once the technician has protected your vehicle, they will use specialized tools like suction cups and glass cutters to remove the damaged windshield. Once the glass is removed, they will also remove the old adhesive, otherwise known as urethane. 

Step Seven: Clean the Frame

At this point, the technician will clean the vehicle’s windshield frame. This step in the process is to ensure there is no other damage or rust, which can significantly impede the placement of your new windshield. If the technician discovers any of the issues we mentioned, they will take care of them then and there, before installing the new windshield. 

Step Eight: Installation

Before putting the new windshield in the frame, the technician will apply a primer, which helps the new adhesive create a tight bond with the glass. Next, the technician will apply urethane around the frame. Urethane is the standard adhesive used in windshield replacements. Once these steps have been taken, the technician will use specialized tools to place the new windshield in the frame. 

Step Nine: ADAS Windshield Calibration

If your vehicle comes equipped with any Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) then you will need a windshield calibration. Many of the cameras and sensors for those ADAS systems are placed in and around the windshield. So when you have the glass replaced, you need a windshield calibration so your ADAS systems function properly. Click here to learn more about ADAS calibration.

Step Ten: Time to Cure

Now that the new glass is placed in the frame, your new windshield will need time for the curing process. The last thing you want is to drive your vehicle before the urethane and glass bond fully and jostle it out of place. Curing time could take anywhere from one to several hours. 

Step Eleven: Final Inspection

Once the bond is formed, the technician will take a final look at their job to make sure the new windshield is sealed well and aligned to the frame. Finally, they will replace any parts they removed, like the rearview mirror, clean up, and offer you safety guidelines for your new windshield. 

Looking For a Windshield Replacement Service in the Covington, LA Area?

If you live, work, or are driving through Covington, Franklinton, Mandeville, Folsom, or surrounding areas of Louisiana, contact us at Hunter’s Auto Glass. Hunter’s Auto Glass is an independently owned auto glass company that offers both mobile and in-shop windshield replacement services. When you contact them, you can expect to be greeted by the owner, Hunter, because he cares greatly about every customer he serves.