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What is Windscreen Replacement?

Windscreen replacement is the process of replacing chipped, cracked or otherwise damaged glass and fittings with a brand-new pane and strong adhesive to keep it in place.

It is not mandatory car maintenance, and you only need to replace your windscreen if it is damaged by stone chips or other debris.

 

Who Can Help with My Windscreen Replacement?

While there are plenty of car body shops across the UK who may be able to help replace your windscreen, booking an appointment with a mobile repairer is your best option.

These mobile technicians come to you and complete the job on your driveway to the same high level, using the same specialist equipment, as if you went to a local body shop – it’s just much easier to fit into your normal schedule.

 

Where Can I Find Windscreen Replacement Near Me?

As this is a job that can only be completed by a trained specialist, you may have to search for a windscreen replacement near you directly to find available options in your area. This should cover both static and mobile repairers.

Alternatively, you can ask family and friends for local recommendations if you need to book a windscreen replacement at short notice.

 

What are the Signs I Need a Windscreen Replacement?

The most definitive sign that you need a windscreen replacement is the appearance of a chip or crack in the glass after a collision or because of debris striking the windscreen.

You may need to book a windscreen replacement after the following:

  • Being struck by grit from a gritter
  • Collision with another vehicle, tree or other immovable object
  • Being struck by gravel, stone chips or other debris after following another vehicle
  • Being struck by a sports ball, such as a golf ball or cricket ball

 

Can I Do a Windscreen Replacement Myself?

No, you shouldn’t attempt to complete a windscreen replacement yourself. It’s a very specialist job that requires plenty of training and experience to do properly, and you run the risk of injury or damaging your car if you try and do it yourself.

Moreover, it will be very difficult for you to find the equipment and replacement glass to complete the job at home.

We recommend contacting a local mobile repairer to replace your windscreen if you’ve noticed a chip or crack.

 

Windscreen Replacement Guides

If you're looking for more information about fixing your windscreen problem, then check out the below articles.

 

How Much Does Windscreen Replacement Cost?

 

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Can You Repair a Cracked Windscreen Instead of Replacing It?

Yes, in some cases you can repair a cracked windscreen instead of replacing the whole piece of glass.

However, there are strict criteria about when you can and can’t repair this damage. Failing to follow this guidance can lead to an MOT failure as well as a fine or prosecution if caught driving an unroadworthy car by the police.

A professional windscreen technician will always know whether you can or can’t repair the crack or chip based on its size and location.

What are the Rules for a Windscreen Repair vs Replacement?

You may only repair a crack or chip in your windscreen if it meets the following criteria:

Zone A (the area directly in the driver’s eyeline) – the damage may not have a diameter larger than 10mm.

Zone B (wider field of vision covered by the driver side windscreen wiper) – damage may not exceed 15mm in diameter (roughly the size of a 5p piece).

Zone C (swept area covered by the passenger side windscreen wiper) – damage may not exceed a 25mm diameter.

Zone D (the rest of the windscreen) – the damage may not exceed 40mm in diameter.

As it’s not always obvious which windscreen zone the damage is in, you should always rely on the opinion of a professional windscreen fitter rather than making the decision yourself.

Are There Any Simple Windscreen Repair Options I Can Do at Home?

Yes, you can purchase a DIY repair kit at a local auto store to fix minor chips and cracks yourself using a special resin as well as all the instructions and equipment you need to make the repair.

However, you shouldn’t treat this as a long-term fix. Your car still may not be safe, and you always run the risk of making the chip or crack worse if you don’t have it fixed by a professional repairer.

We strongly recommend booking a windscreen repair or replacement with a specialist technician rather than trying to complete the job yourself.

Will My Car Insurance Cover the Cost of a Windscreen Replacement?

Many car insurance policies either include windscreen cover as standard or as an additional extra. Policy terms vary depending on your provider but, in most instances, your windscreen replacement will be covered – so long as you’re happy to make a claim to begin the process.

You may also not have as much control over who completes your windscreen replacement if you go through your insurer.

Will a Windscreen Repair or Replacement Affect My No Claims Bonus?

If your policy doesn’t include windscreen cover, there is a good chance it will affect your no claims bonus if you claim for the replacement cost. As a result, we recommend researching your options before committing to going through your insurance provider as it may be cheaper for you to sort the replacement out yourself.

If windscreen cover is included in your policy, then your no claims bonus may not be affected. However, we would recommend checking the terms of your policy to see how making a claim on your car’s windscreen will affect your no claims bonus before you begin the process.

Do I Have to Pay Excess on My Windscreen Replacement?

Yes, but it depends on the terms and cover of your policy. Some providers charge a lower excess for windscreen replacement, while others offer free windscreen repairs with no excess to pay.

If you’re thinking about claiming on your car insurance for a windscreen replacement, we recommend checking the terms of cover and other policy documents before doing so as it may be cheaper to sort a replacement windscreen yourself.

How Long Do I Have to Wait After My Windscreen Replacement Before Driving?

In general, you should wait around an hour before driving your vehicle. This is known as the ‘Safe Drive Away Time’ and ensures your new windscreen has bedded in properly and the adhesive has fully dried.

Some companies require you to wait longer after replacing your windscreen, so make sure to check with the technician who completes the repair how long you should wait to ensure the structural integrity of your new windscreen.

How Long Does a Windscreen Replacement Take?

A windscreen replacement takes about an hour to complete, on average. The upside to this is that most mobile repairers will complete the replacement on your driveway, so you don’t have to interrupt your normal day.

A windscreen repair is much quicker to complete, taking about 30 minutes on average.