How to Fix Broken Window Glass Temporarily: What You Can Do Before the Professionals Arrive

Accidents happen, and sometimes a stray ball, a harsh storm, or even a minor mishap can leave your window glass shattered. Whether you’re dealing with a broken window in your home or a door glass that’s cracked, it’s essential to act quickly to prevent drafts, moisture, and potential intruders from causing further damage. While waiting for professional help, there are a few steps you can take to temporarily replace door glass or fix broken window glass.

1. Stay Safe: Assess the Situation

Before you start fixing the broken glass, your safety should be the priority. Glass shards can be sharp and dangerous, so it’s essential to take the necessary precautions.

Wear Safety Gear:

• Gloves: Protect your hands from sharp glass edges by wearing heavy-duty gloves. Leather or thick rubber gloves are ideal.
• Eye Protection: If there are any loose shards, glasses or goggles will protect your eyes from debris.
• Long Sleeves and Pants: If possible, wear clothing that covers your arms and legs to reduce the risk of cuts.

Remove Large Pieces of Glass:

If there are any large shards that are easy to grab, carefully remove them. Use a dustpan or broom to collect smaller shards and sweep them into a trash bag. If you can, vacuum the area afterward to catch any remaining debris.

Once the area is safe, you can proceed with the temporary repair.

2. Assess the Size of the Broken Window

The next step is to assess the damage. If the glass is shattered into many small pieces or has a large hole, you will need a different approach than if the glass is only cracked. The size of the damage will determine the materials you need and how you’ll secure the window.

• Small Cracks or Chips: These are usually easier to patch temporarily. They may not require much material but will still need to be handled carefully.
• Large Shards or a Complete Break: For larger breaks, you’ll need a more durable solution to cover the entire window space.

3. Temporary Solutions to Fix Broken Window Glass

Once you’ve secured the area and assessed the damage, here are the most effective temporary solutions to fix broken window glass.

Use Clear Tape to Secure the Glass

If the glass is still intact but cracked, clear tape is one of the quickest and easiest ways to temporarily secure it. Clear packing tape works well because it is strong and can hold cracked glass in place. This method works best for smaller cracks or chips.

Steps for Applying Clear Tape:

1. Clean the Window: Before applying tape, wipe down the glass to ensure that no dirt or debris will prevent the tape from adhering properly.
2. Apply Tape Over Cracks: Start by applying long strips of tape horizontally and vertically, creating an “X” pattern. This will help hold the cracks in place. If necessary, apply more tape to cover the entire cracked area.
3. Press Down Firmly: Make sure the tape is pressed down firmly along all edges of the cracks to minimize the risk of further damage.

Tip: If you want a more durable solution, you can also use duct tape instead of packing tape. However, keep in mind that it may leave residue on the glass, which could make it harder for professionals to clean once they replace the glass.

Use Plastic Sheeting or Clear Plastic Film

For larger broken windows or door glass, using plastic sheeting can be an excellent solution. Not only does it block out the elements, but it also adds a layer of protection against further damage. You can find clear plastic sheeting at most hardware stores, or you can use a plastic shower curtain or painter’s drop cloth as a makeshift cover.

Steps for Applying Plastic Sheeting:

1. Cut the Plastic to Size: Measure the area of the broken window and cut the plastic sheeting to slightly larger than the window frame. Leave enough excess to fold around the edges for a secure fit.
2. Attach the Plastic to the Frame: Use heavy-duty tape or duct tape to secure the plastic sheeting around the perimeter of the broken window. Be sure to pull the plastic tightly to avoid any sagging.
3. Seal Edges: For a more secure fit, apply tape along the edges of the plastic sheeting to seal it in place. This will prevent wind, rain, or snow from entering your home.

Tip: If you have a window or door with a large, shattered pane, consider using a second layer of plastic to reinforce the first layer for additional stability.

Plywood Board (For Larger Damage)

In cases where the window is entirely shattered or there’s a significant gap, plywood boards offer excellent protection. This method is especially useful for securing broken door glass temporarily. Plywood will block out drafts and prevent further damage until the glass can be replaced.

Steps for Using Plywood:

1. Measure the Window: Measure the dimensions of the broken window or door to determine how large the plywood board should be.
2. Cut the Plywood: Cut the plywood to size using a saw. It should fit over the entire window or door opening. If the window frame is irregular, you might need to adjust the shape of the plywood.
3. Secure the Plywood: Using screws or nails, secure the plywood to the window frame. Be sure the plywood is tightly affixed to prevent it from falling off due to wind or vibrations.
4. Seal Edges: Use weatherproof tape or foam weatherstripping to seal the edges, ensuring no drafts or moisture can get through.

Tip: If you don’t have access to a saw, many hardware stores offer cutting services to help you get the right-sized plywood.

Cardboard for Smaller Windows

For smaller windows, cardboard can be a quick and cost-effective temporary solution. This won’t provide as much security or durability as other methods, but it can help block out the elements and keep your space more private until a professional arrives.

Steps for Using Cardboard:

1. Cut the Cardboard: Measure the broken window and cut the cardboard to match its size.
2. Tape the Cardboard in Place: Use strong packing tape or duct tape to attach the cardboard to the window frame, ensuring the edges are sealed well enough to block out wind and rain.
3. Layer if Necessary: If the cardboard isn’t thick enough, you can use multiple layers to provide extra insulation.

Tip: Cardboard is a short-term fix and can be affected by weather. It may warp or get soggy if exposed to rain.

4. Use a Temporary Window Film Kit

Temporary window film kits are available at many hardware stores. These kits are designed to provide insulation and protection for broken windows until they can be professionally repaired. They are easy to apply and provide a neat, clear finish.

Steps for Applying Window Film:

1. Clean the Window Frame: Wipe down the frame to ensure that the adhesive will stick properly.
2. Apply the Window Film: Follow the instructions provided with the kit. Most kits involve applying a self-adhesive film to the glass and then using a hairdryer to shrink it for a tight fit.
3. Trim Excess Film: Once the film is securely in place, trim any excess along the edges with a utility knife.

Tip: Temporary window film is best used for insulation and blocking out drafts, but it won’t provide the same level of protection as plywood or plastic sheeting in a storm.

5. Call a Professional to Replace the Glass

After securing your broken window, be sure to call a professional just like 24/7 Mobile Glass as soon as possible to replace the broken glass. A professional will ensure that the window is properly replaced, which will restore the insulation, security, and aesthetic of your home.

Dealing with a broken window or broken door glass can be a stressful experience, but there are several temporary solutions you can use to secure the window and protect your home from the elements. Whether you choose to use clear tape, plastic sheeting, plywood, or a window film kit, always prioritize safety and ensure the repair is secure enough to withstand the elements until professional help arrives.

In the meantime, stay safe and wait for the experts to handle the replacement process!