Here’s what the experts say about if your window is cracked or shattered
Broken windows are never fun. But look on the bright side – this gives you an excuse to update your old window and replace it with a better, more energy-efficient one. While it is possible to simply replace the cracked or shattered glass part, it’s best to replace the whole window. This ensures maximum security and durability to help prevent more breaks in the future. Here’s Simple Home Improvement’s step-by-step guide for what to do in the event your window breaks.
Who to Call
- First, if you get home and discover a broken window, it might be because someone has tried to break into your house. If you think that’s the case, call 9-1-1 immediately. Windows are one of the primary entry points into a home and vandals won’t hesitate to break the glass to get inside. You can usually tell if an intruder did it because the broken section will be big enough for a person to fit through. Tampered locks are another sign that it was an intruder.
Even if the break was simply an accident and not caused by an intruder, you might want to file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance policy or call to at least see if the damage is covered. Make your phone calls first and take photos of the window before anything gets cleaned up.
Clean Up Any Loose Shards
- Are there broken pieces on the ground or window sill? If so, pick them up and dispose of them very carefully. Wear boots, thick leather gloves, and safety goggles while you work. If you have pets or young kids at home, try to keep them out of the room until the glass is gone. Unless you feel like you have to, leave any remaining pieces in the window as they are so you don’t risk injuring yourself.
Seal Off the Hole
There’s probably a gaping hole left in the window now. Not only is this a security problem, but it can also cause trouble with insects, pests, and birds. Plus, it’ll be difficult to regulate the temperature of your home with air escaping and coming through the gap. And if it starts to rain or snow, things could get messy quickly. So, you’ll want to block off the hole the best you can. You can do this by taping a plastic bag or piece of mesh over the window. Depending on the weather and the size of the hole, you might also want to consider boarding it up with a piece of wood.
There’s probably a gaping hole left in the window now. Not only is this a security problem, but it can also cause trouble with insects, pests, and birds. Plus, it’ll be difficult to regulate the temperature of your home with air escaping and coming through the gap. And if it starts to rain or snow, things could get messy quickly. So, you’ll want to block off the hole the best you can. You can do this by taping a plastic bag or piece of mesh over the window. Depending on the weather and the size of the hole, you might also want to consider boarding it up with a piece of wood.If the window just has a stress crack or pressure crack, you may be able to temporarily seal it off using super glue or nail varnish. You can also use heavy-duty tape. Sealing the cracks is important because it’ll help with climate control and also prevent more cracks from forming.
Schedule a Replacement
- As soon as you get a chance, call up a professional to come and replace the window for you. Since it’s broken, they’ll fast-track the process to make sure your home stays safe and secure. If all the windows in your house are older, it might be a good idea to have them all replaced at the same time. This way, they’ll all match, too.
Get Replacement Windows Today
Are your windows old and cracked? Is the glass broken because of a rogue baseball or rock? Did a tree branch break it during a storm? If so, just call up Simple Home Improvements and we’ll be happy to give you a free quote. We make window replacement simple, quick, and affordable for every customer. Call us at 866-849-2599 now to get started.
