Dispelling Common Myths About Windscreen Protection Film

Windscreen Protection Film (WPF) is a relatively new innovation in the automotive industry, yet many misconceptions still surround it. Some drivers assume it reduces visibility, interferes with sensors, or isn’t necessary if they have insurance. However, high-quality WPF – like Armourtec – is designed to be clear, durable and an essential preventative solution against costly windscreen damage.

In this article, we’ll tackle some of the most common myths about windscreen protection film and separate fact from fiction.

1. “Windscreen protection film obscures your vision”

One of the biggest concerns for drivers is whether WPF affects visibility. The truth? High-quality films like Armourtec are completely optically clear. Unlike older, lower-grade films that may have caused distortion, Armourtec is engineered to be invisible, meaning you won’t even notice it’s there – until you need it.

2. “It interferes with sensors and ADAS technology.”

Modern windscreens are packed with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including lane departure warnings, rain sensors, and HUD (Head-Up Displays). Some assume WPF will obstruct these features, but Armourtec is fully compatible with ADAS-equipped vehicles, allowing sensors and displays to function normally while still providing impact resistance.

3. “Windscreen wipers will scratch and wear down the film.”

Yes, windscreen wiper blades will cause wear over time – but worn-out wiper blades are also one of the leading causes of windscreen damage. Better the film than the glass. By taking the brunt of the wear, Armourtec helps protect your windscreen from damage caused by wipers over time.

4. “It’s just like regular paint protection film (PPF).”

While the concept is similar, windscreen protection film is engineered specifically for windscreen application. It is designed to be seamlessly installed on the glass surface of your windscreen whilst maintaining full visibility and offering the same level of impact protection as PPF.

5.”It’s unnecessary because my insurance covers windscreen damage.”

Many drivers overlook the hidden costs – excess charges, premium increases and vehicle downtime. Additionally, modern tech-heavy windscreens require costly recalibrations after replacement. Prevention with Armourtec is always more convenient and cost-effective than waiting for damage to occur.

6. “Windscreen film will peel, bubble, or turn yellow over time.”

Low-quality films may suffer from these issues, but Armourtec is designed for extreme durability – it remains crystal clear, bubble-free, and securely applied to the glass for long-lasting protection.

An image of a customers car having windscreen protection film applied

7. “It’s only for luxury cars.”

While many supercar and luxury vehicle owners use Armourtec to protect their expensive windscreens, it’s also valuable for fleet vehicles, family cars and daily drivers. Any driver who wants to avoid chips, cracks and costly replacements can benefit from windscreen protection film.

8. “You can’t remove it once it’s installed.”

Unlike permanent coatings, Armourtec is fully removable without damaging the glass, allowing easy replacement or upgrades when needed. This flexibility makes it a practical choice for long-term protection.

The Bottom Line: Proactive Protection is the Best Investment

As windscreens become more advanced—and more expensive—preventing damage is more important than ever. Armourtec windscreen protection film offers an invisible solution that stops chips and cracks before they happen, saving you money and hassle in the long run.

Still have questions? Get in touch with us to learn more about how Armourtec can keep your windscreen protected.

Understanding Different Types of Windscreen Damage and the Importance of Proactive Protection

Your vehicle’s windscreen is more than just a shield against wind and debris; it’s a critical component of your car’s structural integrity and safety system. Therefore, it’s important to be aware of the various types of windscreen damage and understand the potential repair costs.

Common Types of Windscreen Damage

Stone Chips (Bullseye or Star Breaks):

Description: Small, circular damage caused by debris impact, resembling a bullseye or starburst pattern.

Causes: Typically caused by loose stones, gravel, or debris thrown up by the tyres of vehicles ahead.

Average Repair Cost: Approximately £50 to £100, depending on the size and location. If left untreated they can spread, leading to a full replacement costing an average of £700, and up to £2000 for premium vehicles.

Edge Cracks:

Description: Cracks originating within two inches of the windscreen’s edge, more likely to spread rapidly.

Causes: Poor installation, structural stress, or impact near the edge.

Average Repair Cost: Typically requires full replacement due to structural risks, ranging from £700 – £2000 depending on the model.

Floater Cracks:

Description: Cracks starting in the middle of the windscreen, which can expand in various directions.

Causes: Sudden temperature changes or impact stress.

Average Repair Cost: Depending on size, repairs may cost £50 to £150; extensive cracks usually require full replacement.

Combination Breaks:

Description: Damage featuring multiple types, such as chips combined with cracks.

Causes: High-impact debris or sequential impacts causing layered damage.

Average Repair Cost: Complex repairs can range from £100 to £200; severe cases typically need full replacement at an average of £700, and up to £2000 for premium models.

Driving with a damaged windscreen isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it has legal and safety ramifications. In the UK, a windscreen crack obstructing the driver’s view can lead to MOT failure, fines up to £2,500, and three penalty points on your licence. Additionally, a compromised windscreen may not provide adequate protection in the event of an accident.

The Case for Proactive Protection

Given the potential hazards and costs associated with windscreen damage, proactive measures are essential. Windscreen Protection Film (WPF) serves as a preventative solution by:

  • Preventing Damage: Acting as a barrier against debris, reducing the likelihood of chips and cracks.
  • Saving Money: Minimising the need for costly repairs or replacements.
  • Maintaining Safety: Preserving the windscreen’s structural integrity, ensuring optimal performance of safety features.

Understanding the types of windscreen damage and their associated costs underscores the importance of proactive protection. Investing in WPF like Armourtec, not only safeguards your vehicle’s windscreen but also enhances safety and can lead to significant cost and time savings.

Armourtec by Clarus Protect is the only Thatcham tested WPF product in the UK and is the best option to defend against chips and cracks. Learn More About Armourtec

The Evolution of Windscreens: From Simple Glass to Advanced Techscreens

Windscreens have evolved significantly since the early days of motoring. What started as basic glass panes to shield drivers from wind and debris has transformed into sophisticated ‘Techscreens’ that play a crucial role in modern vehicle safety and functionality.

In the early years of the automobile, vehicles were open to the elements, exposing drivers to wind, dust and road debris. As cars became faster, the need for protection became clear, leading to the introduction of simple glass windscreens. However, these early designs shattered easily on impact, posing a serious safety risk to drivers and passengers.

To reduce the dangers associated with broken glass, laminated safety glass was introduced in the 1920s. This innovation involved layering cellulose between two sheets of glass, preventing shards from scattering upon impact. This development greatly improved driver and passenger safety and set the foundation for modern windscreen technology.

Today, windscreens are far more than just barriers. Modern vehicles incorporate advanced technology into their windscreens, making them essential components of vehicle safety and performance:

  • Head-Up Displays (HUDs): Project essential driving information directly onto the windscreen, helping drivers stay focused on the road.
  • Rain Sensors: Automatically detect moisture and activate wipers, improving visibility during poor weather conditions.
  • Acoustic Dampening: Reduce road noise through integrated soundproofing materials, creating a quieter and more comfortable driving experience.
  • Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Many vehicles now house cameras and sensors within the windscreen, supporting features such as lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking.

While these advancements have improved driving safety and convenience, they have also introduced new challenges:

  • Higher Replacement Costs: With complex technology embedded in windscreens, replacements are significantly more expensive than in the past.
  • Calibration Requirements: After replacement, windscreens with ADAS technology require precise calibration to ensure sensors and cameras function correctly.
  • Increased Vehicle Downtime: The need for specialist installation and calibration can extend the time a vehicle is off the road, which is particularly inconvenient for fleet operators.

The Solution:

Some cars, such as the McLaren Elva and Ferrari Monza SP2, have taken a different approach – removing the windscreen entirely. Instead of glass, these vehicles use advanced aerodynamics to redirect airflow over the cockpit, creating a virtual windscreen effect. Although owning one of these vehicles may be the best way to avoid windscreen replacement costs, with prices reaching well into the millions, this remains an exclusive luxury for a select few.

Protecting Your Windscreen: A Smart Alternative

For those of us without a windscreen-less supercar, ensuring proper protection is key. The best way to avoid costly windscreen damage and maintain its functionality is by using Armourtec Windscreen Protection Film. This Thatcham tested film provides:

  • Impact Resistance: Shields against chips and cracks caused by road debris.
  • Optical Clarity: Maintains clear visibility for HUDs and ADAS sensors.
  • Reduced Glare: Improves vision in varying lighting conditions.

As windscreens continue to evolve into Techscreens, protecting them has never been more important. Investing in high-quality windscreen protection like Armourtec not only helps to prevent expensive repairs but also ensures a safer and more worry-free driving experience. Learn More About Armourtec

What is Windscreen Protection Film (WPF)?: The Armourtec Advantage

In today’s automotive landscape, maintaining the integrity of your vehicle’s windscreen is paramount. Windscreen Protection Film (WPF) has emerged as a leading solution to safeguard against potential damage. This article explores WPF and highlights why Armourtec is the optimal solution for vehicle owners.

Windscreen Protection Film (WPF) is a transparent film applied to the exterior surface of a vehicle’s windscreen. Designed to absorb and dissipate the energy from impacts, it acts as a protective barrier against various forms of damage, including stone chips, debris and daily wear.

Armourtec is an innovative, high-performance windscreen protection film developed by Clarus Protect. As the only Thatcham-tested* film in the UK, Armourtec offers unparalleled protection and peace of mind for drivers. Its self-healing technology ensures that minor scratches vanish over time, maintaining crystal-clear visibility. With a thickness of less than 1mm, Armourtec is virtually invisible, preserving the aesthetic appeal of your vehicle while providing robust protection.

  1. Safeguard Against Everyday Hazards 

Daily driving exposes your windscreen to potential damage from road debris, such as stones and gravel. Armourtec acts as a barrier, minimising the risk of chips and cracks, thereby preserving the integrity of your windscreen. 

  1. Maintain Optical Clarity and Safety 

 Armourtec is designed to be optically clear, ensuring that your visibility remains uncompromised. This clarity is crucial for safe driving, especially in adverse weather conditions. 

  1. Protect Your Investment 

 Modern windscreens are often equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, making replacements costly. By protecting your windscreen, you can avoid these expensive replacements and maintain the functionality of your vehicle’s advanced systems. 

  1. Time Efficiency 

 Avoid the inconvenience of scheduling repairs or replacements. With Armourtec, your windscreen remains intact, saving you valuable time and ensuring your vehicle is always ready for the road.

Developed by a team of automotive enthusiasts at Clarus Protect, Armourtec is designed to enhance the driving experience by providing unmatched windscreen protection. Whether you own a personal vehicle, manage a fleet, or drive a luxury car, Armourtec is the solution to keep you on the road with confidence.

🚗 Want to protect your windscreen before damage occurs? Learn More About Armourtec

*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

Windscreen Damage: How to Prevent It and Avoid Costly Repairs

You’ve probably been there. You’re driving along and *BANG* a stone hits your windscreen, startling you and leaving a nasty chip in the glass. Anyone who has experienced this feeling knows how frustrating windscreen damage can be. But the real stress? It’s what comes after…

Windscreen damage can lead to the following implications for drivers:

  • Expensive Repairs & Replacements â€“ Modern Techscreens can cost upwards of Â£2,000 to replace.
  • Reduced Visibility & Safety Risks â€“ Cracks can obstruct your view and weaken the windscreen’s integrity.
  • Vehicle Downtime â€“ For fleet managers, time off the road means lost revenue, for everyday drivers, time off the road means stress and inconvenience.
  • Potential MOT Failure and Fines – A damaged windscreen can cause your vehicle to fail its annual safety test and can potentially lead to fines if driven.

Common Causes of Windscreen Damage

Understanding what causes windscreen damage helps you prevent it. The most common culprits include:

  • Road Debris & Stone Chips â€“ High-speed impact from loose stones, gravel, and debris can lead to chips and cracks.
  • Extreme Weather Conditions â€“ Sudden temperature changes cause glass expansion and contraction, worsening existing cracks. Adverse weather conditions also increase the debris on the road and potential for impacts.
  • Poor Road Conditions (Potholes & Uneven Surfaces) â€“ Vibrations and shocks increase stress on your windscreen, leading to damage over time.
  • Accidental Impacts – Minor collisions can stress the windscreen.

5 Proactive Ways to Protect Your Windscreen


1. Keep a Safe Following Distance

2. Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes

3. Drive Cautiously on Poor Roads

4. Inspect & Repair Small Chips Immediately

5. Invest in Windscreen Protection Film
The best way to proactively protect your windscreen is by simply applying a windscreen protection film like Armourtec. This self-healing, invisible film acts as a barrier against stone chips, cracks, and everyday wear—saving you money and keeping your windscreen in top condition.

Why Windscreen Protection Film is Worth the Investment

Windscreen protection film is becoming a must-have for modern vehicles, particularly those with advanced Techscreens. Here’s why:


✅ Prevents Chips & Cracks â€“ Shields your windscreen from impact damage.

✅ Saves You Money â€“ Avoid costly windscreen replacements, repairs and insurance claims.

✅ Maintains Vehicle Resale Value â€“ Keeps your windscreen in pristine condition.

✅ Ideal for Fleets & High-Use Vehicles â€“ Reduces downtime and maintenance costs.

Final Thoughts: Be Proactive, Not Reactive

Your windscreen plays a crucial role in safety, visibility, and vehicle integrity. Instead of waiting for damage to happen, take preventative action today.


🚗 Want to protect your windscreen before damage occurs? Discover how Armourtec can help.
🔗 Learn More About Armourtec