Never take a chance with your windscreen.
It’s not just there to keep you dry or to stop the breeze from messing with your hair. It provides important structural support to the vehicle and if you drive with a damaged windscreen, you could be compromising everyone’s safety.
To make sure your windscreen is in good shape, here are some things to look out for:
Chips or cracks on the glass
Depending on the size and the location of the damage, you may be able to get away with a simple windscreen repair. As a general rule, a chip smaller than a two dollar coin can be repaired and the windscreen restored to its full clarity and function, but anything larger than that may require a full glass replacement. If left unattended, a small chip or crack can escalate into a much larger problem so it’s always worth seeing a professional automotive glass repairer without delay.
The location of the damage is also an indicator of whether you can get away with a repair or whether you’ll need to replace your windscreen. Damage towards the outer edges of the glass can affect the structure of the glass, necessitating a full replacement.
Rattling noises
If your windscreen rattles when you drive over uneven ground or travel at speed, you need to get it seen to immediately. That’s a sure sign that the glass isn’t fitted properly or that the adhesive hasn’t bonded properly.
The fit of the glass
If your windscreen doesn’t look quite right or if it’s sitting a little crooked, then you need to have it examined by a professional.
A white haze at the edge of the glass
Windscreen glass is made from a layer of plastic sandwiched between two layers of glass and is designed to shatter into small, rounded chunks. If you see a white haze around the edges of your windscreen, it’s a sign that this plastic is starting to separate from the glass and this may compromise your safety in the event of an accident. Windscreen repair may not be possible if the bonding layer has deteriorated.
Missing parts
If any part of your windscreen is missing, don’t be tempted to patch it up with tape or glue. As mentioned earlier, your windscreen is a crucial structural component and by neglecting to fix any visible damage, you could be taking unnecessary risks.
Misgivings about a previous repair
If you’re worried about the quality of the workmanship of the previous windscreen repair company, you need to do something about it. Find out about warranties and make sure that any new work is completed to your total satisfaction. Also, new windscreens need time to settle and harden, so if the vehicle has been driven too soon after the replacement, the glass could shift out of alignment. Always trust your instincts and if you have any concerns, take immediate action.
The vehicle’s accident history
Past accidents may have affected the integrity and stability of your car’s windscreen. Even if the damage isn’t visible, if the vehicle has been involved in an accident where airbags were inflated, it’s worth getting professional advice to make sure that it’s working correctly and meets safety standards.
If you spot any worrying signs of damage on your windscreen, don’t wait. Get in touch with Autoscreens. With over 15 years’ experience in the business, they know everything about windscreen repairs and replacements in Perth and pride themselves on the highest standards of quality and customer service. They’re available 24/7 across both the Perth metropolitan and rural areas and back-up their materials and workmanship with a lifetime warranty.
Jason Squire has been in the automotive industry in the UK and Australia for over 25 years and started his own windscreen repair and replacement business, Autoscreens, in 2010.
Jason’s extensive professional qualifications and his broad industry experience paired with his military background means he brings an extraordinary level of skill, expertise and meticulous attention to detail to every aspect of his business.
Prior to starting Autoscreens, Jason worked for several leading international windscreen companies as well as spending a number of years in the armed forces. He has accumulated numerous professional qualifications, industry accolades and leadership awards, and is a highly respected volunteer in his local community.
Under his expert stewardship, Autoscreens has grown into one of the leading windscreen companies in Perth. Despite its success, he has ensured that the family-owned and managed company remains true to its founding values of integrity, quality and unsurpassed customer service.
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