From scorching summers to bone-chilling winters, Ontario’s weather puts your windshield—and its sealant—to the test. While most drivers focus on cracks or chips, few realize how much temperature and humidity affect the urethane sealant holding their windshield in place.
At RAM Auto Glass, we use advanced adhesives designed to withstand Ontario’s extremes, but proper installation and curing are critical. Here’s how local weather impacts your windshield seal—and what you can do about it.
Why Sealant Matters
Your windshield is bonded to the vehicle using urethane—a high-strength adhesive that keeps the glass fixed, watertight, and impact-resistant. This seal supports structural integrity and allows airbags to deploy correctly in a crash.
According to NHTSA crash standards, poor bonding due to incorrect sealant or curing can cause the windshield to detach in an accident. That’s why weather conditions during and after installation are so important.
How Cold Weather Affects Urethane
- Slower curing: Adhesives take longer to harden in cold temperatures, extending your “safe drive-away” time.
- Improper bonding: If the glass or frame isn’t warmed before installation, the sealant may not adhere properly.
- Water intrusion risk: Snow or ice can contaminate the bonding area before it sets, leading to leaks or weak seals.
We use cold-weather urethane that cures in temperatures as low as -18°C, and our mobile technicians warm the work area when needed to ensure a secure seal every time.
How Heat and Humidity Affect Sealant
Hot weather accelerates curing—but that’s not always a good thing. On humid summer days, urethane can skin over before it bonds fully to the glass or frame. This results in weak adhesion that’s invisible until the seal starts to fail.
High humidity can also introduce condensation, which acts as a barrier between the adhesive and the windshield. Our team checks dew points and uses manufacturer-recommended adhesives designed for hot, sticky Ontario summers.
Signs Your Sealant Has Failed
Not sure if your windshield seal is holding up? Watch for these symptoms:
- Whistling or wind noise at highway speeds
- Water leaks during rain or car washes
- Interior fogging or mildew around the dashboard
- Visible gaps or separation along the edge of the glass
If you notice any of these, call us for a mobile reseal or replacement. We inspect the bond line and test for air and water leaks using industry-grade diagnostic tools.
Why Proper Curing Time Matters
Even if the sealant appears dry to the touch, it may not be fully cured inside. That’s why we advise waiting 1–4 hours after installation—depending on temperature and adhesive type—before driving. It’s the only way to guarantee your safety.
Visit our FAQs to learn more about drive-away times, cold-weather installation, and mobile service options.
How We Handle Ontario’s Weather
- Cold-weather adhesive in winter, moisture-tolerant urethane in summer
- Portable heaters, tents, or garage setups to maintain curing conditions
- Safe installation times adjusted based on humidity, temp, and wind
We don’t cut corners—and we don’t leave until your glass is safely sealed to handle Ontario’s toughest weather.
Related Reading
- How Long Should You Wait After a Windshield Replacement?
- What to Expect From a Mobile Auto Glass Repair Service
- How Weather Affects Auto Glass Cracks in Ontario
Need a Weather-Proof Windshield Installation?
Ontario’s weather changes fast—but your windshield should never shift with it. RAM Auto Glass uses premium urethane sealants and climate-specific techniques to protect your vehicle in every season.
Call (647) 777-7080 or book online now for expert installation that stands up to Canadian weather.