AS a windscreen is now a complex and integral part of the structural strength of a car, due to its laminated coating and plastic interlayer, it is vital to preserve it for increased safety on the road, especially during the winter months.
The cold temperatures cause the glass to become more brittle, so existing faults will get worse. Add to this, the rapid heating of windscreens from air conditioning systems, and drivers might well see a significant rise in damage. Meanwhile, the deteriorating state of the roads throw up further debris which can also damage windscreens.
So what can you do to minimise windscreen damage? Here are some of my top tips:
- Never use boiling water to clear an icy windscreen. Use a de-icer.
- Always use a purpose-made vehicle ice scraper for removing ice from the windscreen, rather than a credit card or CD case, as these can easily scratch the screen (unless, of course, you have no option).
- Side mirrors should not be forgotten neither should the rest of the exterior glass.
- Wiper blades should also be replaced every six months to maintain optimum performance.
- Drivers can protect their vehicles from frost with a suitable overnight covering, or by parking in a garage if available.
- Don’t follow other cars too closely – that way you’ll avoid any road debris thrown up.
- Treat speed bumps with respect – they can cause a windscreen to crack.
What should I do if my screen is damaged?
Don’t wait if you do find your car’s glass is damaged: the longer it is left, the more it can become contaminated with moisture, oil or residue from the road surface. Once the interlayer is damaged, the windscreen will definitely need replacing.
However, the chip or crack may not necessarily get any bigger, and can be easily repaired at a fraction of the cost of a windscreen replacement.
Further information
For further advice and information on vehicle windscreens, visit www.autowindscreens.co.uk. Business car drivers can also download a free Auto Windscreens’ Chip Checker app from the Apple iTunes store.
You can find a guide to windscreen legislation in our Ask the Experts section: What is the legislation on windscreen repair?
