When a stone hits the windscreen, it is important to act quickly to prevent the damage from spreading into a crack. Toni Kanerva, glass service supervisor at InCar Tripla, explains what works as first aid for a pebble hit, how to repair glass damage and how to prepare for all this – in good time.
First aid for minor damage: a glass patch
Even a small crack in the windscreen should be protected immediately, as dirt and changes in weather temperature will damage the damage. “The first aid for a small pebble crack is ordinary transparent tape or a free glass patch from InCar, which the motorist can apply himself to protect the damage,” advises Kanerva.
Do this for minor damage:
- Carefully clean the glass from the pebble.
- Cover the stone chip with tape or a glass plaster.
- Make an appointment for a repair or drive directly to an InCar location.
Windscreen repair is easy – and responsible
A small pebble can be repaired while you wait, like this:
The windscreen is cleaned, resin is added to the damaged area, cured with UV light and finally the surface is sanded smooth. In about 15-30 minutes, the car is ready to drive again.
Repairing windscreen glass is also a green – and responsible – thing to do, as it extends the life of the glass and reduces the need to replace the entire pane.
What to do when the whole glass shatters?
When the whole windscreen cracks, the most important thing is to ensure safe driving and then call or visit the nearest glass repair shop. Here’s what to do:
- Check the operation of the safety devices
If the windscreen cracks, driving is basically safe because windscreens are made of safety glass. If the glass is damaged where the camera is, the safety systems that are needed may stop working while driving, in which case you should have the situation checked by a professional. - Make an appointment for a windscreen repair or replacement
While windscreen repair is the first option, it’s not always enough.
If the damage is bigger than a two euro coin or in the camera’s field of view, the glass will need to be replaced completely. - InCar will do the job
InCar will order a new windscreen. Glass replacement is done in a day and includes calibration of the necessary safety systems.
Prevent damage: take a glass insurance
If your car is not covered by glass insurance, InCar will charge €70 per windscreen repair. A windscreen replacement can cost from €200 up to two grand. “If there is an accident, glass insurance for around 100 euros will pay for itself,” Kanerva recommends.
InCar has a cooperation agreement with most insurance companies, which means that the damage inspection, repair and all invoices are handled effortlessly – on behalf of the customer.
Prevent damage. Remember the safety – dis – tan – ce!
The risk of potholes is particularly high in winter, when frost and humidity erode roads. Tyres lift loose stones into the air, which can fly into the nearest car. According to Kanerva, the best way to avoid windscreen damage is simple: keep a safe distance!
InCar – a domestic and reliable choice
InCar is a leading domestic glass and damage repair chain with more than 60 service points across Finland. “Our glass repair shops have the latest technology and professional staff,” says Toni Kanerva, Glass Service Supervisor at Tripla Shopping Centre.
InCar is also a Avainlippu-company, and by choosing them, you support domestic work – and get the easiest damage repair in Finland – even for windscreen pebbles.