This post is the eighth in a series on the basics of auto glass, auto glass repair, and mobile windshield replacement. If you haven’t read parts 1-7 yet, I recommend you do before continuing.

Using the right techniques in mobile windshield replacement (continued)

One example of the dire consequences of a sub-par windshield replacement is the unfortunate case of one Wisconsin woman, who was killed after her improperly replaced windshield gave way and she was ejected from the vehicle. In the investigation that ensued after the accident, one industry expert, Debra Levy of the auto glass safety council, said that, “…as many as 85 percent of so-called replacement windows are installed wrong.” (1) While it’s difficult to find exact numbers on how common sloppy or improper practices are in the auto glass replacement industry, it seems safe to say that there are millions of vehicles in the US that will not perform up to factory standards in a crash due to improper windshield replacements.

Vetting an auto glass shop

So, with all the sub par mobile windshield repair companies out there, how can you be sure the company you choose is doing it right? Well, there are a few questions you can ask that will give you a good idea.

What is the Safe Drive Away Time (SDAT) or Minimum Drive Away Time (MDAT)?

Curing time is important. Under ideal conditions, like a dry, hot, New Mexico day, and given the right adhesives, SDAT can be as little as an hour. However, if it’s cold and humid out, SDAT can be significantly longer – as much as several hours in certain situations and cases.

Check back soon for Welcome to the Chapman Auto Glass Blog, Part 9! In the meantime, check out our page on mobile windshield replacement.

Source cited:

1 – https://newyork.cbslocal.com/2012/11/13/cbs-2-investigation-an-improper-windshield-installation-can-be-deadly/