How to Correctly Seal a Windshield

Sealing Windshield for car Maintenance and Safety in Miami, FL

Introduction

Sealing a windshield correctly is a vital aspect of car maintenance and safety. Thankfully, specialized products like windshield repair kits make the job easier and more effective. In this article, we’ll list nine steps to follow when performing this job.

Prepare Your Workplace

Before diving in, assemble all the necessary items you’ll need:

  • Comprehensive windshield repair kit
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Masking tape
  • A sharp utility knife

Clean the Area

Start by thoroughly cleaning the windshield and its frame with rubbing alcohol to remove any grease or old sealant. Use masking tape to protect areas where you don’t want sealant to adhere. This is an important step in the process of sealing the windshield.

Eliminate Old Sealant

If you’re resealing or replacing a windshield, remove the existing sealant using a utility knife. This step is vital for the windshield repair kit to work effectively.

Use Primer

Application of a primer enhances the adhesion of the sealant. Apply it to the edges of the windshield and the car frame. If your glass repair kit includes a primer, follow the kit’s instructions, and allow the primer to dry for at least 10 minutes.

Prepare Sealant Application

Insert the tube of sealant into a caulking gun and cut the tip to a 45° angle for smooth application.

Apply the Sealant

Hold the gun at a 45° angle and cautiously apply a continuous bead of sealant along the windshield’s frame for a uniform finish.

Place the Windshield

Carefully align and install the windshield onto the sealant coated frames. Adjust it as needed before the sealant dries. Follow the kit manufacturer’s instructions for this step.

Smooth the Seal

Using a gloved finger or putty knife, smooth out the applied sealant to ensure that it fills any gaps and adheres well to both the glass and the frame.

Drying Time

Refer to the instructions in your repair kit for the recommended drying time. Typically, the sealant needs 24 hours to fully cure before the vehicle can be safely driven.

Conclusion

By following these steps and utilizing a quality repair kit, you can achieve a secure, watertight, and durable windshield seal. Proper sealing contributes to safe driving, making it a task worth doing correctly,

Who to Call

For any questions about windshields or other automotive glass, reach out to the professionals here at USA Auto Glass Florida. We are a locally owned and operated company serving South Florida from South Miami Heights to Ft. Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Kendall, Homestead, the Keys, and many surrounding areas. Our highly trained technicians are experts in all things relating to auto glass. We work with individual vehicle owners and their insurance companies, as well as with corporate fleet accounts, providing the same exceptional customer service that has earned for us a reputation as one of the top auto glass companies in the area. We believe in doing business the old fashioned way, treating customers as we would want to be treated. That’s why our slogan is “The Difference is Obvious”.

If you’d like more information about our company or the services we provide, visit our website, or give us a call at any of our four locations:

Dade: (786) 272-5603                        Broward: (877) 336-7217

Palm Beach: (561) 717-7630             South West Florida (877) 336-7217