How To Install Your Own Auto Glass At Home
Posted on: 12 November 2015
If your windshield has a large crack in it and needs to be replaced, you can purchase the glass and change your windshield at home. In order to do so, you need to make sure that you have someone to help you out, as the glass can be heavy and awkward to handle on your own without extensive training. Here is a quick and basic guide to changing out your windshield on your own. This job should only be attempted by someone who has previous experience with replacing windshields; it is not a job for a beginner.
Order The Replacement Glass
The first thing you need to do is order the replacement glass. You are going to need to know the make and model of your vehicle as well as the year. You can order replacement glass through an online retailer or through a local glass company, like K & W Glass Inc.
Remove Your Rear Mirror
Before you remove the existing windshield, you need to remove the review mirror from your windshield. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, the rear view mirror may be clipped in place. If this is the case, you'll just have to unclip it.
If your rear view mirror is glued in place, you may need to slide a razor blade around the edges of it in order to loosen it up and remove it from your windshield.
Remove The Windshield
After you have removed the rear view mirror, you can remove the existing glass. You will need to remove the gasket from the outside of your window that is holding it in place. You may need to use a razor blade to work the gasket loose. The gasket is the plastic material that goes around your window.
You will also need a partner inside of the vehicle to hold the window in place as you work the gasket off, and someone else to help you grab onto the glass and safely carry it to a safe space once you are able to pry it out.
Clean The Area
Once the glass has been removed, you should clean the area where the glass was. Make sure that you clean well around the edges and remove any old adhesive that is still stuck or gasket material that you were not able to get off when you pulled out the windshield.
Attach The New Gasket
Next, you need to attach the new gasket. The packaging should include detailed instructions about how to attach the new gasket. Essentially, it should slip into the place of the old gasket.
Place The Glass
Once the gasket is in place, have a friend help you lift up the new glass and put it into place. You will need to line the glass up with the gaskets. You may want to put one side in place, and then fit the other side into place. It should fit snugly into the gaskets.
Apply Adhesive
Next, you will need to use specially designed adhesive to keep the glass in place. You will need to apply the adhesive around the entire outside perimeter of the glass in order to keep it in place and in order to keep water from seeping into your vehicle. Be sure to read the installation directions on your windshield; some require that you apply the adhesive inside the vehicle around the glass as well.
Allow For Drying Time
Finally, allow the adhesive to fully dry according to the directions on the package. You should not drive your vehicle until the glass has had time to settle and everything is dry.
Installing glass requires skill and a very steady hand. This project should only be attempted on your own if you have some experience and knowledge in the subject. Otherwise, just call up your local glass replacement company and have them do the job for you. It is generally a quick and easy process when performed by a professional.
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