While a broken glass door or window can be a stressful situation, remaining calm and taking systematic steps can help you manage the issue effectively. Accidents happen, and one of the most common mishaps in a home is breaking a glass door or window. Whether it's from a storm, an unfortunate collision, or an unwelcome intrusion, dealing with broken glass can be both hazardous and inconvenient. While waiting for a repairer, there are several important steps you can take to ensure safety and minimize property damage.
Ensure Safety First When You Have Broken Window or Glass Door
The first priority when dealing with broken glass is safety. Do a quick evaluation of the area:
Keep pets and children away: Pets and little ones can easily get hurt by sharp shards of glass. Maintain a safe distance from the damaged area.
Wear protective gear: If you must approach the broken glass, wear heavy-duty gloves and closed-toe shoes. If available, goggles can protect your eyes from stray shards.
Assess the Damage
Before diving into clean-up, take a moment to assess the extent of the damage:
Is it just a crack or is the glass shattered? If it’s only a crack, it may be possible to secure the glass temporarily until the repair. If it's shattered, extra care will be needed.
Check for stability: Ensure that the remaining pieces of glass are stable and not at risk of falling or shifting.
Clean Up Safely
Once you've ensured it's safe, begin to clean up:
Use a broom and dustpan: Sweep up larger pieces of glass carefully. Keep the broom and dustpan close to the ground to avoid scattering shards.
Vacuum the area: After sweeping, use a vacuum with a hose attachment to pick up smaller pieces. Be sure to check corners and crevices where smaller shards might hide.
Dispose of glass properly: Place all glass pieces in a sturdy box or a thick trash bag to prevent cuts. Label it clearly to avoid accidents.
Secure the Area
After cleaning, it’s time to secure the broken door or window:
Cover with a tarp or plastic sheet: If it’s safe to do so, use a tarp, plastic sheeting, or even cardboard to cover the broken area. This will help protect your home from the elements and keep intruders out.
Use tape for cracks: If there's a crack, you can apply clear packing tape on both sides of the glass to prevent further cracking and reduce the risk of shards falling out.
Document the Damage
If the breakage resulted from an accident or occurred during a storm, it's a good idea to document the damage:
Take photos: Capture images from various angles. This documentation can be useful for insurance claims, especially if the break was caused by a storm or accident.
Write a description of events: Jot down what happened leading up to the breakage. Include details like weather conditions, any factors that may have contributed, and when you noticed the damage.
Call for Repairs
While waiting for a repairer to arrive, make the call as soon as possible:
Contact a professional: Premium Glass and Security provides services to Northern Brisbane, Moreton Bay and surrounding areas. If you don’t already have Research local glass repair services and read reviews to find a reputable provider if we aren't servicing your area.
Prepare for the repair: When the repairer arrives, be ready to discuss the extent of the damage and any relevant details from your documentation.
Consider Preventing Future Breaks
Once you’ve dealt with the immediate situation, think about steps to prevent future incidents:
Install window security film: This helps hold glass together despite cracks and may prevent shattering.
Reinforce your doors and windows: Consider upgrading to more durable materials or adding security features to deter accidents and potential break-ins.
Conclusion
While a broken glass door or window can be a stressful situation, remaining calm and taking systematic steps can help you manage the issue effectively. By ensuring safety, documenting the damage, and securing the area, you can wait for repairs with confidence. Plus, once the situation is resolved, you’ll be better prepared to prevent future mishaps. Stay safe!
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