Accidents happen, and one of the most common mishaps around the home is a broken window. Whether it’s the result of a storm, an unfortunate accident, or an intruder, dealing with a shattered or cracked window can be stressful. However, with the right steps, you can quickly secure the area and begin the repair process. Here’s a guide on what to do if you have a broken window.
1. Assess the Damage
First and foremost, evaluate the damage. Is the glass completely shattered, or is it just cracked? Is there any glass still in the window frame, or has it fallen to the ground? Knowing the severity of the break will help you decide how to proceed.
- If the window is cracked but still in place: You may not need to rush to replace the window, but you should secure it to prevent further damage.
- If the window is completely shattered: You will need to secure the area and clean up the broken glass carefully.
2. Ensure Safety First
If there’s broken glass, the most important thing is safety. Broken glass can cause serious injury if you’re not careful. Take the following precautions:
- Wear protective gloves: Thick, cut-resistant gloves are your best bet for handling broken glass.
- Block off the area: Keep pets and children away from the area to avoid accidents.
- Use safety glasses if you’re cleaning up a large amount of glass or removing a larger pane from a window frame.
3. Secure the Broken Window
Once you’ve ensured that everyone is safe, your next priority is to secure the broken window. This is especially important if the weather is bad or the broken window exposes your home to inclement weather or security risks.
- Cover the window with plastic or a tarp: If the window is still in the frame, you can tape a plastic sheet or tarp over the hole to keep out rain, wind, or insects.
- Use plywood or cardboard for temporary coverage: If the window has fallen out, use a piece of plywood, cardboard, or a similar sturdy material to cover the opening. Secure it tightly to the window frame with screws, nails, or strong adhesive.
- Consider using duct tape: If you’re in a pinch, duct tape can help keep cracks from spreading and protect the edges of the glass until you can fix it more permanently.
4. Clean Up the Broken Glass
If the glass has shattered, you’ll need to carefully clean it up. Here’s how to do it safely:
- Use a broom and dustpan: Sweep up the large shards first. Be sure to sweep the area thoroughly so you don’t miss any hidden glass pieces.
- Vacuum the small shards: Once the big pieces are gone, vacuum the area with a hose attachment to pick up smaller bits of glass.
- Use a damp cloth to wipe the floor: After vacuuming, use a damp cloth to wipe the area down to ensure that any remaining glass fragments are picked up.
Important Note: Be cautious about your vacuum’s filter. If you’re using a vacuum with a bag, make sure it’s not going to get clogged with broken glass.
5. Contact a Professional
If you’re unsure of how to repair the window or if the damage is extensive, it’s always a good idea to contact a professional. A professional can quickly assess the damage and determine the next steps. Arcana Windows & Doors is here to help!
- We have the customizable solutions our clients are looking for. We offer bespoke shapes and sizes, higher-end aluminum, wood and steel materials, sophisticated European designs, as well as traditional premium and classic vinyl products to suit any replacement needs.
6. Other Considerations
- Insurance Claims: If the broken window was caused by an accident, storm, or vandalism, you may be able to file an insurance claim to cover the cost of repairs. Check with your home insurance provider to see if this is an option.
- If it is possible, preventing future breakage is an important future step. This could mean installing higher-end security windows, regular maintenance, and ongoing assessment for signs of wear and tear.
Whether you are looking for advice about a broken window, or just looking for a new view, Arcana is here to help. Through our knowledge and experience, we’ll help you find the perfect solution. We are happy to help you. Contact us today!
