Windscreens and auto glass aren’t something most of us think about. Until, that is, there’s a problem. However, all the glassed areas of a vehicle play vital roles – they’re not just a transparent surface to see out of.
From critical vehicle stability to passenger and other road user safety, caring for the windscreen is as crucial as looking after the tyres. The following details everything you need to know about windscreen care, longevity and saving money in the long term.
Understanding the Different Types of Windscreen Damage
There are many different types of windscreen damage. These include chips, which are usually caused by stones, stress cracks and more. As well as flying stones and debris, the most common causes of damage come from issues like temperature fluctuations, extreme weather and theft.
Windscreens can get damaged in so many ways. Some can be repaired, some can’t. But the one vital takeaway is that damage weakens the whole structure of the vehicle. This is true for cars, vans, trucks, 4x4s etc.
Any damage to the windscreen raises the risk of potential dangers like:
- Issues with airbag deployment.
- An increased risk of the roof caving should the vehicle rollover.
- Poor impact dissipation in the event of an accident.
- Impaired visibility.
- Reducing the effectiveness of acting as a barrier between the interior and exterior.
These crucial safety reasons highlight the importance of having any windscreen damage repaired before it’s too late.
Windscreen Repair or Windscreen Replacement?
It can often be challenging to know whether windscreen damage warrants a repair or a replacement. This is when it’s super important to take the advice of a professional windscreen service. Deciding whether to replace or repair depends on multiple issues, including:
- The location of the damage.
- The extent of the damage.
- The depth of the damage.
- The type and severity of the damage.
In general, any damage larger than a 1-dollar coin will warrant a full replacement. However, there are always exceptions to the rule, so it’s essential to follow professional advice. One of the most convenient ways to facilitate either a repair or a replacement is to contact a mobile service, which can visit either your home or workplace (or anywhere else you might choose.
Not only do these tend to be the most cost-effective, but a service provider like Autoscreens uses the latest windscreen repair and installation methods. You’ll also get advice on how to protect your newly repaired or replaced windscreen
Essential Windscreen Maintenance
Caring for your vehicle’s windscreen should be part of your regular vehicle checks. This should include:
- Regular cleaning: Both inside and out.
- Fitting the correct wiper blades: And replacing them regularly.
- Seasonal prep: Including getting any chips repaired before a holiday or knowing how to safely defog or defrost your windscreen in the winter. You should also be aware of summer heat stress on glass.
Vital Info about Windscreens and Insurance
There are many legal requirements surrounding windscreens. This includes where the glass is made, tint levels and any existing damage or cracks.
Vehicle insurance policies also have very strict rules and regulations about windscreens. If, for example, you’re deemed to be distracted by a crack or large chip, then a policy might not pay out in the event of an accident.
Another thing many people aren’t aware of is that their policy will cover most types of windscreen damage. This is because insurance companies know that paying out for a chip or crack repair is likely to be far more cost-effective in the long run. Great windscreen repair companies like Autoscreens work hand-in-hand with insurance companies, meaning you won’t need to pay a single cent to get your windscreen repaired.
Need Windscreen/Auto Glass Repair or Replacement? Contact Autoscreens Today
No matter what vehicle you drive, one thing remains constant – the essential role of the windscreen. With decades of auto glass experience, the use of cutting-edge tech, not to mention our incredible customer service, Autoscreens leads the way in helping drivers ensure their windscreens aren’t just in great condition, but that they also save money in the long-term.
Following these tips will ensure that your vehicle’s glass stays in top condition for many years. And, should the need arise for repair or a replacement, there’s no better place provider in Perth and the surrounding suburbs.
Contact us today and speak to our friendly team.
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.
