Why Winter Windshield Replacement MUST Be Done Indoors?
Quick Answer: Urethane adhesive (windshield glue) requires specific temperatures to cure properly. In Manitoba winters, doing a windshield replacement outside or in an unheated driveway is dangerous because the glue may freeze before it bonds, compromising your safety in a crash. Always choose an in-shop replacement during cold months.
We love the convenience of mobile service for many things. But when it comes to replacing a structural part of your vehicle in a Manitoba winter, "Mobile" is not the safe choice.
At Dedicated Auto Glass, we perform 100% of our replacements inside our climate-controlled shop in Steinbach. We don't do this to be difficult; we do it because your safety depends on it.
Here is the science of why your car window repair needs a warm room.
1. The Glue Needs to "Cure," Not Freeze
The black glue that holds your windshield in place is called Urethane. It is a chemical that needs a specific temperature range (usually above 5°C/40°F) and humidity level to cure.
In a Shop: We keep the temperature at 20°C. The glue bonds perfectly in 1–2 hours.
In a Driveway (-20°C): The urethane creates a "skin" but doesn't bond internally. It essentially freezes in place. If you hit a bump or get into an accident, the windshield could pop out because the bond never formed.
2. Removing the Old Glass Requires Heat
To get your old broken glass out, we have to cut through the old tough urethane. In freezing temperatures, plastic trims and clips become brittle and snap easily. Inside our heated shop, these parts stay flexible, ensuring we don't break your cowling or molding during the install.
3. Rust Prevention
If moisture (snow/ice) gets into the pinch weld (the metal frame) during installation, it gets trapped under the new glue. This leads to hidden rust that can eat away at your vehicle's frame over time. An indoor environment ensures the frame is bone-dry before we apply the primer.
The "Convenience" Compromise
We know it’s a hassle to drop your car off. But is saving a trip to the shop worth risking a windshield that leaks or fails in a rollover?
We make it easy:
Book Online 24/7: You don't need to call. Secure your spot on our website.
Key Drop: Drop it off before work, pick it up after.
Warm Car: You get into a warm, thawed-out vehicle when you pick it up!
Schedule Your Indoor Replacement Now
Frequently Asked Questions (Winter Glass)
Q: Can I wash my car after a windshield replacement? A: In winter, wait at least 24 hours before going through a high-pressure car wash. The high-pressure water and temperature shock can disturb the curing seal.
Q: How long until I can drive my car? A: We typically require a "Safe Drive-Away Time" (SDAT) of 60 to 90 minutes after the installation is finished to ensure the urethane has set enough to hold the glass in the event of a crash.
