What to Do If It Rains After Windshield Replacement?
2 Answers
If it rains after replacing the windshield, the rear seats should be dried promptly, and the leaking area should be sealed. Below are the detailed explanations: 1. The workers installing the windshield usually remind the car owner not to expose the car to water within a day after replacement, meaning no rain or car washing. The reason is that the adhesive needs time to dry naturally after windshield replacement to ensure the stability of the newly installed glass. During car washing, high-pressure water jets used by car washers can loosen the improperly fixed glass, potentially leading to water leakage and interior damage. 2. Automotive glass adhesive typically dries within 1 to 2 hours after application, but it takes 24 hours to fully cure and achieve maximum strength. If the adhesive surface gets wet within 24 hours, it may cause the adhesive to fail.
After replacing the windshield, I encountered rain and was truly panicked. The newly applied adhesive hadn't dried completely, making it easy for rainwater to seep in, potentially flooding the car interior. I immediately parked the car in the garage, dried the outside of the glass with a dry cloth, and checked inside for any wet spots, especially under the floor mats and around the dashboard. Finding some water stains, I promptly used a hairdryer on low heat to dry them or placed moisture-absorbing bags to remove dampness. It's crucial not to drive the car hastily; allow the adhesive to cure for at least 24 hours and avoid rain exposure for a few more days. Later, I contacted the repair shop, and they resealed it to prevent costly electronic circuit repairs. I recommend checking the weather forecast before windshield replacement and inspecting the wiper baffle more often after rain.
