How to Temporary Stop Windshield Leaks When It Rains?

Windshield leaks highlight underlying issues with the installation or sealing and pop up when it rains. While going to an auto glass repair shop is the ultimate solution, temporary fixes to stop the leak are needed before getting expert help. Here are the top four temporary solutions for a windshield leak that can protect your car’s inside from damage:

• Clear Tape
• Sealants
• Water-Repellent Spray
• Plastic Wrap

Let’s go through them in more detail.

Temporary Fixes For A Windshield Leak

Here are some temporary fixes to keep rain out of your windshield and stop the leaks.

1. Clear Tape

Heavy-duty clear tape will help cover the leak and prevent the water from seeping. Follow these steps to help you with the process.

• Clean the windshield to remove any moisture.
• Lay out a piece of tape that is large enough to cover the leak.
• Apply the tape over the leak, ensuring no bubbles or creases. 
• Test it for leaks, and you are good to go!

2. Sealant

This quick fix involved purchasing a silicone sealant to stop the leak. Here are the steps:

• Remove the exterior trim pieces.
• Use a glass cleaner to clean the windshield.
• Put a liquid sealant over the leak evenly.
• Let it fully dry before exposing it to water. 

3. Water-Repellent Spray

You can either DIY it by mixing 5 ml of rubbing alcohol with 86 ml of ethanol, or you can find a water-repellent spray online. Here are some guidelines for this fix:

• Clean the area around the leak.
• Hold the water-repellent atleast 6 inches away from the windshield and spray evenly over the leak. 
• Allow time for the spray to dry.
• Run water over the windshield to check for leaks.

4. Plastic Wrap

Plastic wrap creates a temporary barrier between the windshield and rain. Here’s how to do it:

• Dry the area around the leak.
• Place a plastic wrap bigger than the leak on top of the windshield.
• Tape down the edges seamlessly to prevent water from seeping in.

Keep in mind that these fixes are temporary and do not replace the need for professional windshield repair. You should take your car to get fixed as soon as possible to avoid further damage.

Common Reasons For Windshield Leaks

Here are some prominent reasons why your windshield leaks in the first place.

• Faulty Seals: The seals around the windshield may deteriorate over time. 
• Rust: Once the metal frame of the windshield rusts, it can expand, creating gaps for water to seep in.
• Improper Windshield Installation: if the windshield installation is not done properly, it can lead to problems like leaks. That is why it is so important to reach out to professional auto glass repair specialists for help.

Signs Of A Windshield Leak

Recognizing the signs of a windshield leak can save your car from further damage. Here’s a list of common indicators of a leaky windshield.

• Unpleasant Smell Inside the Car: A windshield leak can leave an unpleasant, damp smell inside your car.
• Rusted Edges of The Windshield: Rusted edges indicate water damage and leakage.
• Fogged Up Windshield: Fogging inside your windshield can signal moisture seeping through.
• Damp Car Carpet: A soggy or wet carpet inside your car is the telltale of a windshield leak.

Conclusion

A leaky windshield should not be neglected as it can damage the interior and rust the exterior of your car. So, as a quick fix to stop rainwater from getting in, you can use clear, heavy-duty tape, silicone sealant, water-repellent spray, or plastic wrap. While this will help stop windshield leaks in the short term, you can contact reliable auto glass repair shops once the rain spell breaks.

Blue Diamond Auto Glass is Houston’s finest auto glass business. We have served for over two decades and are familiar with all fixes – temporary and permanent, for leaky windshields and more. There is no job that our windshield repair specialists cannot do, so you can count on us to fix all auto glass issues with your car in minimal time. Try it out for yourself!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can you reseal a windshield without replacing it?

It depends on the extent of the leak. However, mild leaks can be treated using only sealants without replacing the entire windshield. 

Q2: How to seal a leaking car windshield?

First, you need to remove the exterior trim pieces to locate the leak. Then, use a liquid sealant over it and let it dry. Now, test the leak and place the exterior trim pieces back again.

Q3: What can I put on my windshield to repel the rain?

You can use an ethanol and alcohol-based water repellent to keep the rain out. You can even DIY this solution by mixing 5 ml of rubbing alcohol with 86 ml of ethanol.