2 Major Services You Can Expect from a Windscreen Repair Company

If you've never had to visit a windscreen repair company, you probably know that they handle windscreens, but you may not know how they determine what's fixable and what needs replacement. You may also not realise that they offer other services as well that can be beneficial to your vehicle. So if you find yourself in need of a windscreen repair company, here are some of the services they can offer you.

Windscreen repair or replacement

Obviously, a windscreen repair company can repair or replace your vehicle's front glass, whether it's through an accident or from severe weather such as a hailstorm. However, there's an easy way for you to tell if your windscreen needs repair or replacement. If the size of the crack or break exceeds the length of a dollar bill, your screen will probably need replacement.

Typically, a repairable crack is filled with a transparent resin material, which strengthens the screen glass and prevents the crack from growing larger. Most repairs take 30 minutes or less. If your windscreen only needs a repair, your insurance company will typically waive your deductible and pay for the entire cost of repair. This is because insurance companies want to encourage repairs, which are much cheaper than a replacement, and save them millions of dollars in payouts every year.

If your screen is being replaced, you usually have two choices for the type of glass: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) glass or Original Equipment Equivalent (OEE) glass. OEM glass is the same glass that was used when your car was made, so it's premium quality and more expensive. OEE glass isn't made by the same brand name as your original glass, and though the quality may be slightly less, it has still passed the minimum windscreen standards.

Tinting

Windscreen repair companies also provide you with tinting options for your vehicle. Tinting is a process in which a film is applied to your windscreen glass that provides additional shading and protection. Windscreen tinting cuts harmful ultraviolet rays by as much as 90%, and keeps the interior of your car cooler.

It also protects leather interiors from cracking prematurely and provides enhanced privacy and security as other people can't look into your vehicle to determine if there's anything worth stealing. Keep in mind that windscreen repair technicians can only tint your glass to the limit prescribed by local council regulations. Anything darker is punishable by a hefty fine. Learn more about your options by contacting professionals such as Austral Windscreens.