7 Things to Do During Windscreen Damage in Melbourne

Windscreen damage can happen when you least expect it. Whether it’s a small chip from a flying stone on Melbourne’s busy freeways or a large crack caused by sudden temperature changes, it’s always stressful for any driver. But how you respond in those first few moments can make all the difference, from preventing further damage to ensuring your safety on the road.

In this article, we’ll walk you through seven essential things to do when your windscreen is damaged in Melbourne, helping you make smart, safe, and cost-effective decisions. As local experts, Windscreen Medics Melbourne is here to make the process fast, convenient, and stress-free with professional repair and replacement services.

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Damage

The first step after noticing windscreen damage is to stay calm. It’s natural to feel anxious, but rushing into action can make the problem worse. Instead, take a moment to assess the damage safely, without applying pressure to the affected area or touching any sharp edges. Look closely to determine the type of damage. Small chips or star-shaped cracks are often repairable, while long fractures, especially those reaching the glass edge or obstructing the driver’s view, usually require a full replacement.

If your car has a modern ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System), remember that damage near camera or sensor areas is more serious, as it can affect system calibration. Understanding the extent of the issue helps you communicate clearly with a professional repair service like Windscreen Medics, ensuring they bring the right tools and materials to fix the problem efficiently.

2. Avoid Driving if Safety or Visibility Is Compromised

Driving with a cracked or shattered windscreen can be extremely dangerous. Even a small chip can spread quickly due to Melbourne’s fluctuating weather, especially when the glass is under pressure or hit by cold air conditioning after sitting in the sun. Beyond the risk of worsening the damage, limited visibility can increase the chance of accidents.

In Victoria, it’s also illegal to drive if your windscreen obstructs your view of the road. You may face penalties or fail a roadworthy inspection. The best option is to park your car safely and arrange for professional help.

That’s where Windscreen Medics’ mobile service makes all the difference. Their expert technicians can come to your location, whether you’re at home, work, or even roadside, to inspect and repair the damage safely, saving you both time and stress.

3. Protect the Damaged Area from Further Stress

Once you’ve assessed the situation and ensured safety, take immediate steps to prevent the damage from spreading. Simple precautions can go a long way in preserving your windscreen before professional help arrives.

If you have a small chip, gently place a piece of clear packing tape over it to keep out dust, water, and debris. Avoid washing your car or exposing it to extreme sunlight, as sudden temperature changes can cause cracks to expand. Likewise, avoid slamming car doors or driving on rough roads, since vibrations put extra pressure on the damaged area.

Melbourne’s unpredictable weather, from sudden rain to scorching heat, can make even minor cracks worse overnight. By protecting the damage early, you reduce the risk of a complete replacement and make professional repair much easier and faster.

4. Call a Professional Windscreen Repair Technician

While it may be tempting to try a DIY repair kit, professional help is the safest and most reliable solution. Cheap or unqualified repairs often fail to restore the glass’s original strength, leaving your vehicle vulnerable in case of impact. In contrast, certified technicians can assess the situation accurately and apply high-quality resin using advanced tools and curing systems.

Windscreen Medics Melbourne is trusted by countless drivers for their expertise in both minor repairs and complete replacements. Their mobile repair units are fully equipped to handle all types of damage on the spot. Whether it’s a small chip repair that takes 30 minutes or a full windscreen replacement for modern vehicles, they ensure precision and compliance with Australian Standards (AS2080).

More importantly, Windscreen Medics prioritises safety, ensuring every repair restores the glass’s structural integrity, which plays a key role in supporting airbags and maintaining the vehicle’s overall strength. Choosing professionals gives you peace of mind, knowing the job is done right the first time.

5. Know Your Repair vs. Replacement Options

Not every damaged windscreen needs a full replacement. Understanding the difference between repairable and non-repairable damage helps you make informed decisions.

A repair is typically suitable when:

• The chip or crack is smaller than a $2 coin.
  

• It’s not located directly in the driver’s line of sight.

• The damage hasn’t reached the edge of the windscreen.

If the crack is deep, long, or spreading, a replacement is the safer option. Modern windscreen replacement involves carefully removing the old glass, applying specialized bonding adhesive, and installing new, vehicle-specific glass that matches the car’s design and safety specifications.

Windscreen Medics technicians perform detailed inspections before recommending any service. Their priority is saving you money where possible, but never at the expense of safety. Each replacement uses premium OEM-grade glass, ensuring perfect clarity and long-lasting durability.

6. Review Your Insurance and Coverage Options

Before committing to a repair or replacement, it’s wise to check your car insurance policy. Many comprehensive insurance plans in Victoria cover windscreen damage, sometimes with little or no excess fee. Knowing your policy can help you avoid unexpected costs and speed up the repair process.

Some insurers even offer one free windscreen repair or replacement per year, so reviewing your coverage is worth the effort. If you’re unsure how to proceed, Windscreen Medics can guide you through the insurance claim process. They frequently work with major Australian insurers and can help handle the paperwork, making the experience hassle-free.

7. Schedule Routine Windscreen Inspections and Maintenance

Once your windscreen has been repaired or replaced, the final step is keeping it in excellent condition. Routine inspections and simple maintenance habits can prevent future damage and extend your glass’s lifespan.

Melbourne’s combination of road debris, construction zones, and extreme temperature changes can cause minor chips or surface wear that often go unnoticed. That’s why scheduling periodic checks with Windscreen Medics ensures small issues are detected early before they evolve into costly cracks.

You should also clean your windscreen regularly using ammonia-free glass cleaners and soft microfibre cloths. Avoid harsh chemicals or scraping tools, which can weaken the protective coatings on modern glass. Keeping your wiper blades in good condition is equally important.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with windscreen damage can be inconvenient, but with the right steps, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. From assessing the damage and avoiding unsafe driving to choosing trusted professionals and understanding your insurance options, acting quickly can save you money and ensure your safety on Melbourne’s roads.

Whether you need a quick chip repair, a full replacement, or routine maintenance, Windscreen Medics Melbourne offers premium-quality service tailored to your needs. Their certified technicians provide mobile repairs and replacements anywhere in Melbourne, using industry-leading materials and technology.

Call Windscreen Medics today for expert windscreen repair and replacement services that keep your car safe, your visibility clear, and your confidence high, wherever your Melbourne journeys take you.