Windshield Replacement and Wind Noise
If you’re hearing wind noise after a windshield replacement then something happened during the installation process that caused an air pocket in the urethane between the glass and the car’s frame. There are several factors that could lead to hearing wind noise after the windshield replacement is finished. Use the list below to help ensure your windshield is installed properly and the chance for wind noise is avoided.
- Be sure you don’t drive the vehicle before the urethane has completely dried: Be sure to ask the auto glass shop what the “safe drive away time” is for the urethane being used. This time varies between different urethane manufacturers and can also be dependent on the weather. Driving your vehicle before the allotted time has passed can cause the windshield to move around on the urethane and create air pockets as mentioned in the beginning of this post.
- Be sure the installer wears gloves to perform the installation: Make sure the installer is wearing disposable gloves when handling your new windshield. If the installer isn’t wearing disposable gloves then the natural oils from his hands will transfer to the glass which contaminates the surface and keeps the urethane from properly bonding to it.
- Be sure the installer uses the correct urethane for your vehicle and environment: Ask the auto glass shop if the urethane being used is the recommended type for your vehicle and current weather conditions. Colder weather requires a different type of urethane. If it’s under 40 degrees outside and your windshield replacement is performed with urethane that isn’t rated for colder temperatures then the urethane will not work properly.
- Be sure the installer thoroughly cleans the edge of the new windshield: Cleaning the edge of the windshield will remove any dust or oils that might exist and help the urethane bond to the glass properly.
- Be sure the installer performs a “full cut” method and not a “short cut” method: These terms refer to the process used when removing your old windshield. The best method is the “full cut”. Basically, when the installer is removing your windshield he will leave little to none of the old urethane on the vehicle prior to placing another bead of urethane for the new windshield. The “short cut” method is least favored but is still used. “Short cut” is when the installer is removing your windshield and he leaves as much of the old urethane as possible. He then cuts off the rough top of the old urethane leaving a smooth edge where the new bead of urethane will be applied.
The information above pertains to wind noise immediately after a windshield replacement. However, another thing to consider when you’re having a windshield replacement is whether or not the installer used a primer. If your installer performed the “full cut” method then more than likely there will be scratches in the metal of your car where the old urethane was removed. If the installer doesn’t place a primer on these scratches prior to laying a new bead of urethane then you’ll more than likely have rust issues in the future. These rust issues can lead to wind noise, water leaks, and an unsafe vehicle. For more information on the safety surrounding proper windshield installation please view the link titled “ABC News Windshield Safety Special” under the “Informative Links” section of this blog.
If you’re in need of auto glass service we can help you find a certified windshield replacement installer.
