Broken window glass is more than just an inconvenience. It disrupts your day, creates a serious safety hazard, and leaves your home or business exposed to weather and potential intrusion. Sharp shards can cause injuries, and even small fragments can remain hidden on floors or furniture long after the glass breaks.
When a window shatters, acting quickly and carefully is essential. Knowing the proper steps to take can help protect everyone in the space until the window is professionally repaired.
What to Do When Window Glass Breaks
If a window breaks, follow these steps to reduce risk and prevent further damage:
Keep people and pets away
Immediately restrict access to the area. Ask everyone to stay clear of the broken window, and move pets to another room to prevent cuts or injuries from sharp glass.
Remove large pieces carefully
Put on heavy work gloves and carefully pick up the larger shards of glass. Place them in sturdy paper bags or wrap them securely in thick newspaper to reduce the risk of cuts during disposal.
Clean up smaller fragments safely
Wear work shoes or boots and sweep up smaller pieces of glass. Tiny shards can easily embed themselves in soft footwear and get tracked throughout the home, creating ongoing hazards.
Vacuum and wipe the area
Use a vacuum to remove remaining glass fragments from floors and nearby surfaces. After vacuuming, wipe the area with a damp cloth to capture fine slivers that may be invisible to the eye. Dispose of the cloth immediately after use, and keep gloves on during this step.
Leave glass that is still secured
If broken glass remains in the window frame but is not falling out, it is often safest to leave it in place. Removing embedded glass without proper tools can be dangerous, as broken edges are sharp and difficult to handle.
Secure the opening if repairs are delayed
If immediate repair is not possible, cover the opening with plywood or boards to deter intrusion. Add a tarp or heavy plastic sheeting over the window to block wind, rain, and debris until professional repairs can be made.
Avoid DIY repairs unless qualified
Unless you are experienced in glass replacement or construction, do not attempt to repair the window yourself. Improper handling can lead to injury or an unstable installation.
Call a Professional Glazing Contractor
The safest and most efficient solution is to contact a licensed glazing contractor. Professionals have the proper tools and training to remove broken glass, clean the area thoroughly, and install replacement glass correctly.
Glazing contractors such as Vern’s Glass in Victorville can respond quickly, safely remove broken glass, and repair or replace damaged windows at a reasonable cost. They also ensure that all glass is disposed of properly, reducing the risk of future injuries.
When a window breaks at your home or business, contacting an experienced glazing specialist is the fastest, safest, and most reliable way to restore security and peace of mind.
