Rain after replacing your windshield can be an indicator that the new windshield was not installed correctly. Even driving over minor bumps could shift it if it is not secured securely enough.

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As the urethane used for replacement requires 24 hours to fully set, it's wise to avoid rain until then. Here's how:

Don’t Wash Your Car

After your windshield replacement, the first two days are essential to its success. High-pressure washes place too much force on the adhesive and may damage it; commercial car washes may interfere with this curing process and compromise its strength – leading to leakage of new sealants into your new windshield seals.

Within 24 hours of installing a windshield replacement, it's essential that doors be closed gently rather than abruptly and slammed shut. Slamming opens send vibrations throughout your entire vehicle frame which could affect new molding or adhesives being added onto it.

Leave retention tape attached for at least 24 hours before taking any steps to remove it, and ensure sunshades, car covers, and clutter remain off your windshield during this time. Anything sticking or pressing against it during this period could disrupt the curing process and leave gaps that allow rock chips into your seal allowing future rock chips to come in.

Don’t Slam Your Doors

As soon as your windshield replacement has been completed, it is wise to refrain from slamming doors or trunks. Your new windshield's molding and adhesive are still setting and curing; any unnecessary door or trunk slamming could compromise this seal and lead to leaks around its edge.

While you wait for your adhesive to set properly, it may be beneficial to leave one of your windows cracked a fraction of an inch – this helps avoid sudden air pressure changes that could put undue strain on the windshield and its adhesive.

At this time, it is also beneficial to replace any decals or permits you had adhered to your old windshield – parking permits from work or toll transponders – that have become outdated or have fallen off in their absence. Miracle Auto Glass offers these replacement items so they're ready when your new windshield arrives and ready for attachment.

Don’t Drive in the Rain

As the urethane used to secure your windshield needs time to cure and set, driving it shortly after replacing your windshield can create issues.

On a long drive, road vibrations could disturb the seal on your windshield and shift it, potentially leaving a gap through which water could enter your car.

Additionally, driving over bumps or potholes with considerable force can interfere with sealant curing processes, leading to leakage issues which are more difficult than usual to address.

To avoid these potential issues, it's wise to wait several days after installing your windshield replacement before driving it again. If driving is unavoidable, listen out for any rattling sounds or other indications that indicate the sealant may no longer be held securely – this could indicate it needs repair at once and you should visit an auto glass technician immediately.

Don’t Leave Your Car in the Rain

An experienced technician understands that if the resin holding your windshield in place isn't fully dry, it could chip under pressure and should therefore not be exposed to rain within 24 hours of installing a new windshield replacement.

Heavy rain may help remove loose dirt and pollen from your vehicle, but it won't remove weather-induced road grime or set-in mud that has settled onto its surfaces over time. These contaminants will adhere to windshields and paint surfaces leaving marks that can be hard to erase.

After having your windshield replaced, it is also wise not to go through a car wash for 24 hours following its replacement. The high water pressure at car washes may loosen the adhesive of the urethane seal and lead to gaps appearing in your windshield – leading to further damage or cracks appearing later. Instead, consider hand-washing or parking under cover until enough time has passed for your new seal to set.