Auto Glass Tips & Advice

What is "Safe Drive Away Time"?

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 19:38:24 GMT

What Is Safe Drive-Away Time?

Safe Drive Away Time (SDAT), or sometimes known as Minimum Drive Away Time (MDAT) is simply the amount of time you must wait after a new windshield is installed before you can drive your car safely.

The exact time can vary depending on the type of adhesive used, temperature, humidity, and the vehicle. Your technician should let you know when it is safe to drive your vehicle before you leave.

Why SDAT/MDAT Matters:

Your windshield is more than just a piece of glass. It is an important part of your vehicle’s safety system and helps provide structural support in certain types of collisions. The adhesive used during installation needs enough time to set properly so the windshield stays securely in place.

Structural Support: Your windshield helps hold up the roof during a rollover crash.
Airbag Deployment: Passenger airbags often bounce off the windshield to protect you. A loose glass can pop out and cause airbags to fail.
Adhesive Strength: Technicians use urethane glue. SDAT means the glue is strong enough for normal driving, even though it takes up to 24 hours to completely cure.

What Factors Determine SDAT/MDAT?

Safe drive-away time varies by vehicle and installation conditions. At Smith Auto Glass, we use professional-grade adhesives and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for calculating curing
• Adhesive Type: Different urethane adhesives have different cure times. We use high quality OEM grade urethane.

• Weather : Warm and humid air speeds up drying, but cold and dry weather makes the glue dry much slower

Before you leave, we'll let you know the recommended safe drive-away time for your vehicle and any additional care instructions.

Have questions about your windshield replacement? Give Smith Auto Glass a call at

 410-342-2677.

Aftercare Tips for Your New Windshield

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 19:38:23 GMT

Your new windshield is installed, but there are a few simple things you should keep in mind after leaving the shop.in order to keep you safe and protect your new windshield:

Wait

Follow the Safe Drive-Away Time that your technician will calculate for you. We will let you know when it is safe to drive your vehicle. This gives the adhesive time to reach the proper strength.

No Car Wash

Avoid automatic car washes and high-pressure washing for at least one week after installation.

Close Doors Gently

Avoid slamming your doors for the first 24 hours. Excessive pressure inside the vehicle can affect a fresh windshield installation.

Wait to Tint
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Drive Carrefully

Use caution while driving on rough or uneven roads or railroad tracks over the next couple to prevent unnecessarily twisting your vehicle's body.

Leave the Windshield Alone

Avoid placing stickers, dash cameras, or other accessories on the new windshield for at least 48 hours unless otherwise advised.

Watch Your Wipers
If your existing wiper blades are old or work, they could scratch your new windshield. Consider replacing your wiper blades during or after install.

Have questions about your new windshield? Call Smith Auto Glass at  410-342-6996 .

Learn More About Windshield Replacement at Smith Auto Glass

Windshield Repair vs. Replacement: When Do You Need a New Windshield?

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 19:38:23 GMT

Not every windshield crack or chip means you need a new windshield. In some cases, the damage can be repaired. In others, replacing the windshield is the safer option.

When can a windshield be repaired?

A chip or small crack may be repairable depending on:

Size: Smaller chips and cracks are more likely to be repairable.
Location: Damage directly in the driver's line of sight may require replacement.
Type of Damage: Some cracks, chips, and combinations of damage cannot be safely repaired.
Condition of the Glass: Dirt, moisture, or damage that has spread over time can affect whether a repair is possible.

When is windshield replacement needed?

Replacement may be necessary when:

The crack is too long or the damage is too extensive.
The damage reaches the edge of the windshield.
There are multiple areas of significant damage.
The damage is directly in the driver's primary line of sight.
The windshield has other damage that affects its strength or visibility.

Repair or replace?

The best option depends on the type, size, location, and severity of the damage. Having the damage looked at sooner is always a good idea. A small chip can spread into a larger crack, especially with changes in temperature or road vibrations.

At Smith Auto Glass, we'll inspect the damage and let you know whether a repair or replacement is the better option for your vehicle.

Have questions about windshield repair? Give us a call at  410-342-6996 .

Learn More About Windshield Repair