Storm Eowyn has arrived, bringing high winds, rain, and colder temperatures across England. Severe weather like this doesn’t just create travel disruptions; it also poses significant risks to your vehicle, particularly your windscreen. In this post, we’ll explore the type of damage severe weather conditions can cause for your car and why proactive protection is key to staying safe on the road.

The Impact of Weather on your Windscreen

Flying Debris

Storms create the perfect conditions for flying debris. Strong winds can lift gravel, twigs, and even branches, sending them hurtling towards your car. For your windscreen, even small stones can cause chips or cracks upon impact. Over time, these small imperfections can grow into larger, more costly issues.

Sudden Temperature Changes

Storms often bring sudden drops in temperature, which can weaken glass. If your windscreen already has minor chips, these temperature fluctuations can cause the damage to spread, compromising the structural integrity of the glass.

Harsh Driving Conditions

Poor visibility, standing water, and increased debris on the roads mean your vehicle is exposed to more risks. Your windscreen plays a vital role in maintaining clear visibility, and any damage can make driving even more hazardous during severe weather.

The Cost of Windscreen Damage

Replacing a windscreen is more expensive than many drivers realise, especially with modern vehicles. Today’s Techscreens—windscreens with embedded technology like ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)—can cost anywhere from £700 to £2,000 to replace.

Beyond the financial cost, there’s the inconvenience of vehicle downtime, which is particularly impactful for fleet managers who rely on keeping vehicles road-ready.

How to Protect your Windscreen

1. Avoid High-Risk Areas

During storms, try to park your car in a sheltered area or garage to reduce exposure to flying debris. Avoid parking under trees, where branches are more likely to fall.

2. Inspect your Windscreen Regularly

Check your windscreen for chips or cracks before and after severe weather. Catching damage early can prevent it from worsening.

3. Invest in Windscreen Protection Film

Invest in a windscreen protection film like Armourtec. Armourtec is the only Thatcham tested*, invisible windscreen protection film in the UK. It provides an added layer of defence against chips, cracks, and other damage likely to be caused by storms.

*Thatcham Research, established in 1969, is a not-for-profit independent world-class research centre dedicated to understanding the opportunities and risks of new vehicle technology, creating a better ownership experience for consumers and keeping society on the move https://www.thatcham.org.

Why Armourtec is the Ultimate Solution

• Prevents Chips and Cracks: Absorbs impacts from flying debris, keeping your windscreen in pristine condition.

• Self-Healing Technology: Minor scratches and damage repair themselves, extending the lifespan of your windscreen.

• Cost-Effective Protection: Avoid the high cost of windscreen replacements and reduce downtime.

Stay Protected Against Adverse Weather

Storms like Eowyn remind us of the importance of proactive vehicle care. Don’t let severe weather catch you off guard—take steps to protect your windscreen and ensure your car or fleet remains road-ready.