If you’ve discovered a small chip in your windscreen, you may wonder whether it’s important to get it repaired. Here at Fleet Motorglass, we specialise in windscreen repair and we advise you to address these chips promptly. Let’s take a closer look at why.
What Causes Windscreen Chips?
Windscreen chips can happen quickly – a small stone kicked up by a passing car, or debris falling from a construction truck, is all it takes to damage your vehicle’s front glass. These chips can also happen after sudden temperature changes, stressing the glass from the inside out.
Bumpy roads and high speeds can increase these conditions, turning your windscreen into a target for airborne hazards. Knowing what causes these chips is the first step to preventing them and ensuring your vehicle’s safety and longevity.
Why Are Windscreen Chips a Problem?
Let’s talk about why you really shouldn’t overlook these small chips:
- Prevent Further Damage: Small chips can rapidly develop into large cracks, complicating the repair process and leading to the need for a full windscreen replacement, which is more costly.
- Maintain Visibility: Chips, especially if they are in the driver’s line of vision, can impair visibility, which is essential for safe driving.
- Structural Integrity: The windscreen contributes to the vehicle’s overall structural integrity, especially in a rollover accident. Even a small chip can weaken this integrity.
- Financial and Legal Consequences: Driving with a chipped windscreen might not only lead to fines but could also affect your vehicle’s ability to pass inspection, depending on your location.
How to Identify Serious Chips
Not all windscreen chips are similar. Some, like bullseye chips, are more prone to spreading and may require immediate attention. Others, such as small surface pits, might not pose as much of a threat.
Learning to identify the various types of windscreen damage is crucial. Descriptions and visuals can guide you in recognising serious chips—those that penetrate deep into the glass layer, have a diameter larger than a coin or are situated directly in the driver’s line of sight should be dealt with swiftly.
What Should You Do If You Have a Windscreen Chip?
While very small, superficial chips can sometimes be temporarily managed with DIY kits, deeper or larger chips should be professionally assessed and repaired to ensure safety and restore the glass’s integrity.
At Fleet Motorglass, we use professional-grade materials and techniques to effectively repair chips, preventing further damage and maintaining the windscreen’s clarity and strength.
Preventive Tips:
While it’s impossible to completely avoid windscreen chips, you can certainly decrease the chances of them occurring:
- Keep Distance: Maintain a safe driving distance from other vehicles, especially on highways or near construction zones, to avoid debris.
- Regular Maintenance: Ensure your vehicle and windshield are regularly checked and maintained.
- Use Protection: Consider using windscreen protectants or treatments that can enhance the glass’s resistance to damage.
Conclusion
It’s clear that addressing windscreen chips is not just about aesthetics but is essential for safety and cost-effective vehicle maintenance. If you notice a chip, it’s important to get it assessed by professionals.
At Fleet Motorglass, we’re here to provide quick and efficient windscreen repair services.
Call us at 01525 375050 to learn more or book your repair directly.
Contact us today to ensure your safety on the road!