The Proper Way to Seal a Windshield

A leaking or cracked windshield is all too common in Alberta’s chilly climate. This inconvenient issue is far from just a cosmetic concern—it can obstruct your view and lead to further damage if not addressed promptly. Follow this guide to learn how to seal a leaking windshield effectively. If you don’t feel comfortable attempting the job yourself, you can always leave the work to auto glass professionals.

Why Do Windshields Leak?

Windshields can develop leaks for several reasons. Here are the most common causes:

• Manufacturing defects: Occasionally, windshields might ship with defects from the manufacturer. Tiny cracks or imperfections worsen over time and lead to leaks.
• Improper installation: If the windshield isn’t installed properly, gaps might develop, leading to leaks. Even a small misalignment can allow water to seep in during rain or car washes.
• Wear and tear: The sealant used to secure the windshield can degrade over time. Exposure to the extreme cold typical of Alberta’s winters accelerates this process. UV exposure can also cause the sealant to dry out and crack.
• Physical damage: Chips and cracks from road debris or minor accidents can break the seal around the windshield. These damages often start small but can expand when left to the elements.
• Vehicle body damage: Structural issues with the vehicle body, such as rust or warping, can affect the windshield seal.

Signs of a Leaky Windshield

Detecting a leaking windshield early can save you from more damage later on. Watch out for these signs:

• Condensation inside the windshield
• Visible mold growth around the edges of the windshield
• Water stains on the dashboard or upholstery
• Musty smell in the vehicle
• Rusty metal components inside the car

Risks of Ignoring a Leaky Windshield

It’s easy to put off leaky windshield repair, but ignoring the problem can lead to other issues, such as:

• Interior damage: Water can damage the car’s upholstery, carpet, and electronic components. Prolonged exposure to moisture also leads to mold growth, which is challenging to remove.
• Structural weakness: The windshield contributes to the car’s overall structural stability. If the seal is compromised, it reduces the vehicle’s ability to withstand impacts, especially in rollover accidents.
• Electrical issues: Water entering the vehicle can damage electronic systems, leading to a malfunctioning stereo, GPS, and essential driving components like sensors and cameras.
• Health risks: Inhaling mold spores while driving around in your car can cause allergic reactions and asthma attacks, especially if you have a sensitive respiratory system.
• Reduced visibility: Leaks can cause fogging on the inside of the windshield, obstructing your view. This is particularly dangerous at night and when the sun is low in the sky, as visibility is already partially impaired at these times.

How to Test the Windshield for Leaks

Before sealing your windshield, it’s important to identify the exact location of the leak. Here are some methods to determine where the water is coming from:

• Visual inspection: Carefully examine the edges of the windshield for any visible gaps, cracks, or signs of worn-out sealant.
• Water test: Spray water around the edges of the windshield with a garden hose. Have someone inside the car watch for water entering the vehicle.
• Soap test: Mix soap and water in a spray bottle and squirt it around the edges of the windshield. Watch for bubbles forming, which indicates air or water entering through a gap in the seal.
• Interior inspection: Check the inside of the vehicle for damp spots, water stains, or other signs of moisture. Pay special attention to the dashboard, carpeting, and areas around the windshield.

Steps to Seal a Windshield

Sealing a windshield properly involves several steps to ensure durable, watertight results. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to seal a windshield:

• Prepare your workspace: Ensure you have a clean, dry area to work in. Gather all the necessary materials, including a soft cloth, rubbing alcohol, a utility knife, a windshield repair kit, masking tape, a caulking gun, disposable gloves, and a putty knife.
• Clean the area: Thoroughly clean the windshield and frame using a soft cloth moistened with rubbing alcohol to remove grease and debris.
• Remove old sealant: Scrape off any existing sealant using a utility knife. This is a crucial step to ensure the new sealant adheres properly.
• Use a primer: If your repair kit includes a primer, apply it to the edges of the windshield and car frame. Allow the primer to dry completely, which typically takes about 10 minutes.
• Prepare for sealant application: Protect areas where you don’t want sealant to adhere using masking tape. Load the sealant into a caulking gun and cut the tip at a 45-degree angle to help it go on smoothly.
• Apply the sealant: Hold the caulking gun at a 45-degree angle and apply a continuous bead of sealant along the windshield frame for an even finish.
• Place the windshield: Carefully place the windshield onto the frame, ensuring it is properly aligned. Adjust as needed before the sealant begins to dry.
• Smooth the seal: Use a gloved finger or putty knife to smooth out the sealant, filling any gaps and ensuring it adheres well to both the glass and the frame.
• Allow time to dry: Refer to your repair kit’s instructions for the recommended drying time. Sealant typically needs 24 hours to fully cure before the vehicle can be driven.

Let a Professional Seal Your Windshield Leak

If you don’t feel comfortable fixing a leaking windshield seal yourself, turn to Auto Glass Solutions for a job well done. Our trusted windshield leak repair services promote vehicle safety and longevity in Alberta’s cold climate. We provide comprehensive, hassle-free service backed by over 30 years of industry experience to meet all your auto glass needs in Edmonton and Leduc. Contact us at (780) 435-7852 today to request your windshield repair quote.