It’s the first question that people ask when they get a chip on their vehicle’s windscreen – should I have the chip repaired or should I replace the whole windscreen?
It’s a question that is best answered by professionals who with their trained eye, can quickly assess the damage from all angles and make an informed decision. In the majority of instances however, the best course of action is to repair rather than replace – and in fact, many windscreen repairers operate on this principle.
Of course, there are factors that influence the decision – not least of all insurance considerations and those will vary depending on the level of cover, excess payable and so on. However, if you have a chipped windscreen and are wondering whether you should repair or replace it, you may find the following points helpful in determining the best way forward.
Speed matters
A seemingly innocuous chip can quickly spread into more significant damage and dirt and dust can work its way into the chipped area which can lead to further problems. If a stone does hit your windscreen or you notice a chip – have it seen by a professional windscreen repairer as soon as possible.
Size counts
The choice between windscreen repair or windscreen replacement depends largely on the size of the damage. As a rule of thumb, any chip larger than a dollar coin (around 15mm wide) will generally be too large to repair and the repair shop will recommend a replacement.
Location
The location of the chip is a crucial determinant of whether to repair or replace. If it’s in the driver’s line of vision (bear in mind this can vary depending on the height of the driver) which is generally centred on the steering wheel and covers an area about 30cm wide, then the slight distortion in the glass that can be left by a repair job may decrease the windscreen’s clarity and compromise visibility.
It’s also important to remember that the windscreen provides structural support for the vehicle so if the chip is very close to the edge, it may compromise the integrity of the windscreen and jeopardise the safety of the passengers. Usually, if the chip is more than 5cm from the edge, it will be OK to repair, but a professional windscreen repairer will assess the chip from all angles and make an informed decision.
Windscreen repair technology has improved hugely in recent times and a professional windscreen repairer can generally fix the damage in under an hour – even in the comfort of your own home.
If you’ve got a chipped windscreen and are wondering whether it can be fixed or whether you need to go the full replacement route, then Windscreen Replacement Perth are leaders in windscreen repair in Perth can help. If you call 0400 200 086 or visit their website you’ll be assisted by a technician with the highest qualifications required by the industry who will do a thorough assessment of the situation and evaluate all the factors before recommending the best option for you. Remember however, if you do spot some damage, get it assessed immediately to prevent further damage and avoid what could potentially be a more costly solution.
Jason Squire started Autoscreens in 2010. With over 35 years of experience gained in both the UK and Australia, the company is well established as a leading provider of windscreen replacement and autoglass repairs in Perth.
His journey to becoming a certified repairer license holder status with DMIRS (and business repair license MRB3703) began many years ago. He was born and brought up in the UK – the country where his long career in the automotive industry began. In common with many of the world’s best tradespeople it all started with an apprenticeship. For Jason, this was in vehicle bodybuilding and a specialisation in vehicle conversions.
He followed that up with several additional professional qualifications, including a Grade A Vehicle Body Building Certificate from the Road Transport Industry, a GQA level 2 in NVQ Automotive Glazing and a Level 2 qualification in Joining Materials by Welding from the UK Engineer Training Authority.
During his studies, Jason was also a part-time volunteer in the Royals signals with the Reserve Territorial Army. Between 1991 and 1995, Jason completed his Phase One Signallers Course with the Royal Armoured Corps and was awarded a Certificate of Trade Proficiency as a Territorial Army Driver Electrician Class 3. Training exercises took him all over Europe. He also represented the Signals in Rugby.
From there, he joined the armed forces on a full-time basis with the Queens Royal Lancers and continued to impress with his leadership skills and willingness to broaden his skillset, during which he lived in Germany. In 1996, he graduated from the Queens Royal Lancer Leadership Academy where he was named best recruit. His time with the Queens Royal Lancers he qualified as Tank Driver, Crew Medic and Gunner.
In 1999, Jason left the armed forces to join RAC Auto Windscreens. His skillset enabled him to fast-track his career to base supervisor and lead technician working with premiere dealerships in Crewe, Cheshire.
He also continued to volunteer in a number of different areas, including as a first responder with the West Midlands Ambulance Service and a scout leader with the Scout Association.
He relocated to Australia in 2008 with his young family and spent his first two years down under as a head technician for a national windscreen company.
However, with all his experience, extensive qualifications and his abiding passion for the automotive industry, it was inevitable that he would start his own company and make his mark as an industry leader.
He started Autoscreens in 2010 and has grown the business into the leading windscreen repair and replacement company in Perth, servicing both domestic and commercial customers. Autoscreens has a certified Motor Vehicle Repairers Licence MRB3703 issued by the Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety.
