We’ve all been there – the bullet-shot crack of a stone hitting the screen on the motorway. But you don’t always need to replace the complete windscreen if a crack or chip appears.

The chances are, your business can save money by a repair.

How? Well, a windscreen is given its strength by a PVB interlayer – a type of resin – which is sandwiched between two pieces of glass. If a chip or small crack does not pierce the PVB interlayer then the windscreen will be returned to its full strength with a resin repair.

A successful repair, however, is very much dependent on the size of the damage. And the area on the windscreen it is located. But make sure you choose a company that follows the BSAU242a code of practice for glass repair. It will ensure the quality of the windscreen repair.

If you do notice a chip in your windscreen, get it repaired as soon as possible. Eventually, it will become a crack. And you will require a more costly windscreen replacement.

The cost-savings of a windscreen repair over a replacement cannot be underestimated. For business cars the difference can be hundreds of pounds. For fully comprehensively insured drivers a repair is usually free and there is no loss of No Claims Discount.

Other than the cost savings, there are also numerous other benefits to having a windscreen repaired. Repairs are far quicker than a replacement. They usually take around 30 minutes. A replacement windscreen takes a minimum of two hours.

If you are not sure whether your windscreen can be repaired, then visit an automotive glazing services’ fitting centre. They will provide a free windscreen check. And will be able to advise whether a repair is possible.

Alternatively, visit Auto Windscreens’ website – www.autowindscreens.co.uk
– which provides visitors with an interactive tutorial to identify whether minor windscreen cracks and chips can be repaired.

By Chris Bonsall, technical and training manager, Auto Windscreens