7 Top Tips to Prevent Windscreen Damage

Moisture Intrusion: A Common Culprit

Moisture intrusion is one of the top causes of windscreen damage. Over time, water can seep into the smallest cracks and chips in your windscreen, causing the glass to expand and contract. This can lead to the formation of larger cracks and chips, which can be difficult and expensive to repair.

To prevent moisture intrusion, make sure your windscreen is properly sealed. If you notice any cracks or chips, get them fixed as soon as possible. Additionally, try to avoid driving in heavy rain or leaving your car in areas where it is exposed to water for extended periods of time.

Car Washes: More Harm Than Good?

While car washes may seem like a convenient way to keep your vehicle clean, they can actually be a source of windscreen damage. Automatic car washes use high-pressure jets of water to clean your car, which can cause small chips and cracks to grow larger.
If you must use a car wash, consider a touchless one that doesn’t use brushes or high-pressure water jets. Alternatively, you can wash your car by hand using a soft sponge and gentle cleaning solution.

Direct Sun Exposure: More Than Just a Heat Hazard

Direct sun exposure can cause your windscreen to become brittle and more prone to cracking. This is because the heat from the sun can cause the glass to expand and contract, which can weaken it over time.
To prevent sun damage, park your car in a shaded area whenever possible. If you don’t have access to a covered parking area, consider investing in a sunshade to help protect your windscreen from direct sunlight.

Extreme Temperatures: A Double-Edged Sword

Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can be a major source of windscreen damage. In extreme heat, the glass can expand and become more susceptible to cracking. In extreme cold, the glass can contract and become more brittle, making it more prone to cracking and shattering.

To protect your windscreen from extreme temperatures, park your car in a covered area whenever possible. If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, consider investing in a car cover to help protect your vehicle from the elements.

Everyday Driving: Wear and Tear

Everyday driving can take a toll on your windscreen. Small rocks and debris can fly up and cause small chips and cracks to form. Over time, these chips and cracks can grow larger and become more difficult and expensive to repair.

To prevent windscreen damage from everyday driving, try to avoid following other vehicles too closely. Additionally, avoid driving on gravel roads or other areas where debris is likely to be kicked up.

Slamming Doors: An Unexpected Cause

Believe it or not, slamming doors can also cause windscreen damage. The force of a door slamming shut can cause small chips and cracks to form in the glass.
To prevent windscreen damage from slamming doors, make sure everyone in your vehicle is careful when opening and closing doors. Additionally, avoid slamming your own doors shut, and gently close them instead.

Outdoor Debris: A Constant Threat

Outdoor debris such as gravel, sand, and rocks can be a constant threat to the integrity of your windscreen. These materials are often kicked up by other vehicles or natural occurrences like strong winds and hailstorms, causing cracks or chips to form on your windscreen.

To prevent windscreen damage from outdoor debris, it’s important to drive defensively and be aware of road conditions. Slow down when driving on gravel or dirt roads and keep a safe distance from other vehicles to avoid debris being kicked up. Additionally, avoid driving behind large trucks or vehicles carrying loose materials like gravel or sand.

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