If you have grown tired of looking through a broken windshield on your car and have decided it is time for a replacement to be installed, then there are many things you are likely wondering about. Below is a list of the most pressing questions regarding windshield replacements and their answers so you know what to expect when your car's auto glass is replaced:

Should I Pay the Extra Expense of Installing an OEM Windshield?

When you order the new windshield for your car, you will have a choice of buying one that is OEM or a generic option. The OEM windshield is one that is made by the manufacturer of your vehicle and is specially designed just for your car model. The generic windshield is made by a third-party and is nearly identical to the OEM version but will be a lot cheaper. Unless you drive a high-end specialty vehicle, you should go with the third-party option. It will save you a lot of money and you will not notice any difference once it is installed.

How Long Does it Take to Replace the Windshield?

Glass technicians are skilled at their job and will replace your car's windshield in under an hour. After the replacement is complete, your car needs to sit for at least a couple hours to allow the adhesive to cure.

Are There Any Special Driving Instructions I need to Follow After My Car's Windshield is Replaced?

Yes, you do need to modify how you drive after your car's windshield is replaced. How you drive your vehicle will affect how well the glass seals in place. Improperly sealed glass will leak water as it ages. For this reason, in the day after your replacement, you need to:

• avoid driving on rough roads

• avoid driving on gravel roads

• avoid excessive speed

• avoid parking your vehicle in the rain or direct sunlight

In addition, you should avoid driving your car at all if you have another option. Letting your car sit indoors is the absolute best way to cure the new windshield's seal.

How Can I Avoid a Damaged Windshield in the Future?

Finally, since having your car's windshield replaced takes a lot of time and is expensive, it is important that you know how to proactively avoid future windshield damage. The best way to keep your new windshield from damage is to always leave plenty of space between your car and others on the road. Trucks and passenger vehicles often fling up rocks from the pavement and this is the most common cause of windshield chips and cracks. Leaving plenty of space between you will allow gravity to pull the rocks down before they can hit your windshield.

Contact an auto shop like Wolfe's Foreign Auto to learn more.