The Finnish winter brings many challenges for motorists: icy roads, snowfall and frost put both the driver and the vehicle to the test. One of the most important things to pay attention to before the winter cold is the condition of your car’s windscreen. Small pebble cracks can expand quickly, especially in winter, so it’s a good idea to check the glass and repair any cracks and pebble chips before the cold weather arrives. InCar’s experts will tell you what to look out for and when to act.
1. Stone chips and small cracks – why should they be repaired in time?
Stone chips and small cracks are common, especially on Finnish roads where sand and gravel are used in winter to prevent slippage. If these damages are not repaired in time, they can expand under the influence of frost or temperature fluctuations. Freezing water that penetrates glass cracks can cause even small pebbles to spread rapidly. InCar offers a fast and cost-effective repair service that prevents damage from worsening during the winter.
2. Windscreen edge damage – a typical risk area
Damage close to the edges of the windscreen is particularly prone to spreading during the winter. Temperature fluctuations and stress on the glass while driving can cause cracks to grow. If you notice damage to the edge of the glass, it is advisable to act quickly and have it repaired before the winter frosts set in. InCar experts will assess the location of the damage and confirm whether a repair is possible or whether the extent of the damage requires glass replacement. As a general rule, if the damage is in the so-called silk-screened, dark area of the windscreen, a glass replacement is likely to be necessary.
3. Temperature fluctuations – do they exacerbate the damage?
The variable temperatures of the Finnish winter pose challenges for car glass. Particularly risky are situations where the car heating is on and the glass heats up quickly inside while it is freezing outside. This means that even small damage, such as cracks, can expand rapidly. That’s why it’s important to check and repair any damage to your car glass before winter sets in. At InCar, we use materials and techniques designed to withstand cold conditions and prevent damage from progressing.
4. Sensors and cameras in security systems – how are they affected by damage?
Many modern cars have safety systems integrated into the windscreen, such as lane departure warning systems and rain sensors. Damage to the windscreen can affect the performance of these systems, reducing driving safety. If you notice damage in the area where the sensors or cameras are located, it is important to have the glass repaired without delay to ensure that the systems remain accurate and reliable. InCar also offers calibration services to ensure that all safety systems are working properly after repair.
5. When is windscreen replacement necessary?
If the damage is extensive, within the driver’s field of vision or significantly affects the safety systems, it may be necessary to replace the entire windscreen. Particularly in winter, major damage can reduce the durability and safety of the glass. At InCar, we perform a thorough assessment and only recommend glass replacement when it is absolutely necessary for safety. We use glass from Saint Gobain and Pilkington, glass manufacturers that supply original equipment to car manufacturers, which meet the same high quality standards as original windscreens and can withstand Finland’s harsh weather conditions.
Why check the condition of your windscreen before winter?
Checking the condition of your windscreen before winter is a small but important step that can save you a lot of hassle and expense later on. A small pebble in the windscreen and a crack in the windscreen are quick and inexpensive to repairbut can become a major problem during the winter.
Choose InCar for windscreen repair
InCar offers extensive expertise in assessing and repairing windscreen damage, and our skilled professionals will ensure that your windscreen is in top condition before the winter weather sets in, so you can drive safely through the winter season.
InCar is a reliable partner for all your car glass services, whether it’s a small repair or a glass replacement, we offer a comprehensive service, including calibration of security systems if required. Book an appointment today and make sure your windscreen can withstand the demands of Finnish winters – safely and reliably.