Everything You Need To Know About Windshield Replacement

Windshields are made of laminated safety glass, which is made from two sheets of curved glass and a plastic layer laminated between them. This design's purpose is to guard the people inside from danger. While we wish that nothing could penetrate them, windshields are still susceptible to cracks and chips. 

Some chips are small enough to be repaired, but others are too deep into the plastic and require a full replacement.

In-Shop vs Mobile Replacement Services

As you’ll read, while these two services have a lot of similarities, they also have their differences. 

In-Shop Windshield Replacement 

The term “in-shop” refers to the shop where the replacement specialists work. The owner of the vehicle calls to make an appointment and takes their car to the auto glass shop. While the owner waits, the following is what will be happening while you wait. 

1. Take the Trim Off

Experts will remove the trim. This trip is the adhesive for the damaged windshield. This is typically done with a sharp razor until the old windshield is loose. 

2. Remove the Old Windshield

Large suction cupped handles will be put on the glass and the technicians will pull the old windshield out of its frame. 

3. Prepare for Replacement

The frame area, which includes the pinch weld, will be cleaned thoroughly. The pinch weld is a small gap that “pinches” the edge of the glass. So it was appropriately named. Dirt and debris can interfere with the adhesive so this cleaning step is essential. 

4. Apply the Adhesive

Urethane is the adhesive typically used when replacing a windshield. 

5. Install the New Glass

At this point, the tech will put the new windshield in its place, in the pinch weld. 

6. Final Inspection

This is the point where the technician will go over the windshield to be sure that everything looks good. 

7. Let it Set

Using suction cups the glass will be held into place for a few minutes. Then, the suction cups will be removed and your car will need to be stable for about an hour so the car and new glass form a strong new bond. 

That’s all. After that, you’re free to take your vehicle with its beautiful new windshield. 

Mobile Windshield Replacement Services

When it comes to mobile windshield replacement services, they do the same thing as the in-shop service. However, there is one difference: the mobile service comes to you. This allows you to sit at home, work, or at a friend’s house while you wait. 

Both in-house and mobile services have their place in windshield replacement. You may not want the technicians to come to you for one reason or another, while mobile offers convenience so you can stay in familiar surroundings. If you have a newer vehicle with ADAS technology (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) in-shop services may be required depending on your vehicle.

What Does It Cost to Replace a Windshield?

Many factors go into the overall cost of replacing a windshield but it can run anywhere from $300 to $500. If you live in Edmond, Arcadia, Guthrie, Nichols Hills, OKC or surrounding areas and think you need a windshield replaced contact us for a free quote.

Need a Windshield Replacement in the Edmond or OKC Area?

Our technicians here at Optic-Kleer Auto Glass are fully certified to work on sedans, pick-up trucks, SUVs, cargo vans, Jeeps, semi-trucks, and any other vehicle on the road today. If you would like to learn more about our windshield replacement services, click here.