What Happens When a Windscreen Is Replaced

Before the old screen comes out

The first step is checking the screen and surrounding area. We note the damage, check the condition of the frame, and look for existing rust or previous poor work around the edges. Wipers, trim and anything attached to the screen are protected or removed.

Fitters will also look at what is fixed to the glass, such as a rain sensor, a camera or heating elements. The correct replacement glass needs to match these features, so it helps to tell us about any extras when you book.

Removing the old glass

The old screen is cut free from the adhesive that holds it in place. This has to be done carefully to avoid damaging the paintwork around the frame, because paint damage leads to rust.

Once the glass is out, the leftover adhesive on the frame is trimmed back to a thin, even layer rather than scraped away entirely. Any rust or damage is dealt with before the new glass goes on, which is one reason a proper inspection matters.

Bonding the new screen

The frame and glass are prepared with primers where the adhesive manufacturer requires it, and fresh adhesive is applied in a continuous bead. The glass is then set into place and positioned accurately, so it sits evenly and the gaps are consistent.

The bond is the critical part. A poor bond can mean leaks, wind noise or, in the worst case, a screen that does not do its structural job. That is why the work should be done by someone following the adhesive maker's instructions closely.

• Clean and inspect the frame
• Prime where required
• Lay a continuous bead of adhesive
• Position the glass and check alignment
• Refit trim, seals and wipers

Curing and why you should wait

Adhesive needs time to harden to a safe strength. How long depends on the product used, the temperature and humidity, and the vehicle, so there is no single answer. The fitter will tell you when it is safe to drive and how long to leave certain things alone.

Follow that advice. Typical guidance includes leaving a window slightly open to help with pressure when you close doors, keeping off a pressure washer or automatic car wash for the period you are given, and not peeling off any retaining tape too early. Driving off too soon, or slamming doors, can disturb a bond that has not fully set.

Rain sensors, cameras and trim

Many screens carry a rain sensor, a light sensor or a forward-facing camera used by driver-assistance systems. These need to be refitted properly, and some cars require the camera to be checked or recalibrated after the glass is changed. Whether yours does depends on the make and model, so ask when you book.

Trim, rubber seals and clips also matter. A missing clip or badly seated seal can cause rattles or leaks, so trim is checked and refitted as part of the job.

Checks afterwards

Before collecting the car, check that the wipers sweep cleanly, the washers work, the glass sits evenly, and nothing rattles. If your car has a rain sensor or driving aids, check they behave as before and let us know if a warning light appears.

At Banks of the Tyne in Hebburn we carry out windscreen repairs and windscreen replacement, as well as chip repairs, side and rear glass and wing mirrors. If something does not seem right after any glass job, bring the car back and we will look at it.

Frequently asked questions