When the chips are down - get independent advice

Unfortunately for many, there seems to be far too many ways for windscreen companies to say ‘Sorry Sir we can’t repair your windscreen’. According to Gareth Kilburn, Director at Autoglaze, the national windscreen repair specialists, there is a tendency for windscreen companies to give misleading advice and sourcing out your own windscreen repair may be the most productive option.

Mr Kilburn, from the company who offer windscreen repairs and practical advice, added, “It is a solemn fact that many insurance companies, will have members of staff from the windscreen repair firm working in their call centres, often in offices dubbed as, ‘glass help lines’”
It is important for consumers to bear in mind that they are under no legal obligation to use the nominated supplier as outlined in your insurance policy. Insurers will often negotiate special discounts for windscreen replacements and have billing arrangements secured.

Mr Kilburn added, “At Autoglaze we specialize in listening to our customers and their needs, our website includes a comprehensive diagram with windscreen chip sizes and locations, and whether or not they are repairable. My best advice would be to contact the company direct.

“It is essential to know when to repair your windscreen and when to replace it. Your windscreen is a vital component for your safety and nothing must impair your visibility when driving. Modern windscreens are made from laminated glass and consist of layers of glass and polymer forming an expandable and tear resistant assembly. In the event of an impact, the glass remains in one piece. By leaving a chip untreated, should you have an accident the glass could crack.”

When sourcing out your own broken windscreen repairs, make sure that you hire a certified windscreen installer to do the work, and if it does needs repairing, make sure that you find out what type of warranty the installer offers on their windscreen replacement service. Also make sure that you check any existing policy that you may have to see what services are deductable and always bear in mind that you have a legal right to choose the windscreen replacement professional you want for the job.

For more information on the services offered by Autoglaze visit their website at ukautoglaze.com