We’re frequently asked questions about windscreen repairs and replacements. Here are some of the common ones.

WHAT IS A WINDSCREEN MADE OF?

Modern windscreens are made of laminated glass – a sandwich construction of two pieces of glass with a strong, plastic interlayer.

The outer layer of glass may crack on impact, but unless there is a severe accident the glass will remain intact adhering to the interlayer.

New windscreens are manufactured to meet stringent international safety standards which cover such aspects as optical quality, strength, fracture performance and resistance to the effects of weathering.

HOW IMPORTANT IS THE CONDITION OF THE WINDSCREEN?

For safety reasons it is important to ensure that the windscreen is maintained in good condition. Cracks and other damage can weaken the strength of the windscreen and affect vision through the glass.

Major damage may require the windscreen to be replaced, while minor damage can be repaired.

REPAIR OR REPLACE?

The British Standard Code of Practice BS AU 242A 1998 sets out guidelines for when windscreens may or may not be repaired.

Zone A
Area 290mm wide, centred on steering wheel, bounded by wiped area above and below. Damage contained within a circle of 10mm may be repaired.

Zone B
Driver wiped area, excluding Zone A. Damage contained within a circle of 15mm diameter may be repaired.

Zone C
Passenger wiped area, excluding Zone B. Damage contained within a circle of 25mm may be repaired.

Zone D
Area excluding Zones A, B and C. Damage contained within a circle of 40mm diameter may be repaired. Within Zones B, C and D no two repairable areas should be closer to each other than 100mm.

SCRATCHES

Scratches on the Windscreen, i.e. light surface scratching, are not to be considered as damage. However, an area of concentrated scratching such as caused by the prolonged use of a defective wiper blade which obscures vision may be considered a reason for rejection if it meets the fail criteria.

WHAT DOES A WINDSCREEN DO?

Apart from the obvious, like keeping the wind out of your face and filling a hole in the vehicle, a correctly fitted windscreen – and other vehicle glass will:

  • Form part of the structural rigidity of the vehicle.
  • Help prevent the vehicle occupants from being ejected from the vehicle in the event of an impact.
  • Act as a deflector for passenger air-bags;
  • Contain radio and satellite navigation antenna and heating elements.
  • House moisture sensor technology.
  • Act as a sound insulator against road, and outside noise.
  • All of the above functions are achieved through the use of high performance, specialist adhesives and good quality glass products.

HOW IS THE GLASS FITTED?

Most modern vehicles have fixed vehicle glass (Directly Glazed) that is, windscreens, back and sometimes side glass that are ‘glued’ or bonded directly to the vehicle. In order to retain all safety features and multi-functional roles played by glass and adhesives in modern vehicles, it is essential that trained, and time-served technicians carry out all installations. Ensure your vehicle is being treated correctly by using an experienced and qualified installer to replace your automotive glass.

WHAT CRITERIA IS USED IN GLASS FITTING?

By choosing GLASSTEC Automotive, you will ensure that the installation is as best it can be, and as close to – if not better than – OEM standard. This includes:

  • Correct installation with manufacturer-approved materials;
  • An experienced installer, who will return your vehicle to its original state;
  • Awareness, and where required, compliance with safety standards;
  • Correct and safe drive-away times being quoted;
  • Robust guarantees against installation and parts.

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