Windshield Replacement: Understanding the Process

The windshield is an integral component of your vehicle, providing vital structural support and ensuring the safety of its occupants. Thus, it is essential to fix any cracks or damage right away. If you are in an unfortunate situation requiring to replace your windshield, you may be curious about how exactly it is done. Rest easy, the experts at General Auto Glass break down the basic windshield replacement process for you! 

Prepping for Installation

The first step in windshield replacement is to prepare the vehicle for installation. Masking the surrounding area with protective tape and covering the hood and dashboard will ensure that your vehicle is not damaged during the replacement process. Next, the wipers, cowl, and rearview mirror will be removed. 

Removing the Moulding/Trim

The next step is to remove the old moulding or trim holding the damaged windshield in place. The technician will then loosen the windshield by cutting away the old moulding and stripping down the windshield installation area to the metal frame. 

Removing the Damaged Windshield

After stripping away the moulding, the damaged windshield is lifted away from the vehicle. The suction cups with handles should be used to gently pop and lift the windshield out of place. This ensures that it does not break further and damage your vehicle.     

Prepping the Pinch Weld

With the old windshield removed safely, the next step is to prepare the pinch weld. The pinch weld is the small gap between the car frame and the windshield that pinches or holds the edges of the windshield together. The weld is cleaned to remove any dirt and old urethane residue. This ensures that the new windshield can fit snugly into the pinch weld. Next, a fresh coat of urethane is applied to the edges of the pinch weld. Urethane is the adhesive or glue that secures the windshield to the metal frame. Care is taken to apply the urethane evenly and quickly, ensuring that it does not dry out or set before the windshield if fitted.   

Installing the New Windshield 

Once the pinch weld is coated with fresh urethane, the last step is to install the new windshield. Using an OEM windshield will make sure the new windshield matches the exact dimensions of your car. The new windshield is placed and fitted into the pinch weld by installation experts. Large suction cups with bars are used to ensure a perfect alignment. As the urethane begins to set, the suction cups are removed and the urethane is allowed to dry and cure completely. The wipers, cowl, and rearview mirror are reinstalled. That completes the windshield replacement process, and your vehicle is ready to rule the road again!

Toronto Trusts General Auto Glass

A full-service auto glass company, we are the undisputed experts in windshield replacement and repair across Markham, North York, and Stouffville. We promise a 100% warranty on all installations with 200% satisfaction! Regardless of the damage, our auto glass specialists will ensure a sublime windshield replacement and repair experience with upfront, transparent pricing. We pay up to 100% of the insurance deductible to cover all approved costs! Dial 905-604-0433 for a free windshield replacement/repair estimate or use our super-convenient on-site mobile repair service! Satisfaction guaranteed!