Broken windows are, in fact, everything they’re cracked up to be. They can cause injuries, lead to accidents, and even invite burglars into your home. So, if you find yourself suddenly in need of emergency window repair, your first instinct might be to panic.
But, all is not lost. By staying calm and taking the right steps, you can secure your home and prevent anyone from getting hurt. Find out exactly what to do when you need emergency window repair in West Michigan, Grand Rapids, MI below.
Assess the Damage
When you discover that your window is damaged, take some time to assess the situation. The extent of the damage will determine your next steps.
A window might shatter into large shards, which is dangerous to those around it. If this happens, it’s time to call a professional. They’ll be able to handle the problem safely using the right tools.
On the other hand, if the damage is minimal, you may be able to wait a little longer before scheduling the repair. Examples of minor damages include small chips or cracks that do not affect the structural integrity of the window.
However, it’s important to note that even small damages can compromise the security and energy efficiency of your window, so it’s still recommended to schedule a repair promptly.
Secure the Area
Secure a broken window by boarding it up with plastic board. This will help prevent people or animals from trying to get in. It will also allow you to feel safer in your own home until a repair service can arrive.
Do a thorough inspection of the area around the broken window. Doing so will help you spot any safety hazards. There may be broken glass on the ground that will need clearing.
You should always sweep or vacuum broken glass instead of lifting it with your hands. Picking glass up can cause nasty cuts and injuries.
If the broken window is on the ground floor of your home, you may want to consider installing temporary barriers such as plywood or metal grates over the window, in addition to the plastic or boarding. This extra layer of protection can help deter potential burglars or vandals from entering your home through the broken window.
When you require emergency window repair in West Michigan, Grand Rapids, MI, it’s important to contact a window repair service that specializes in emergency repairs. Choose a company with a good reputation that can provide prompt and reliable service. Give them the necessary information regarding the damage and schedule a window repair appointment.
Make Temporary Repairs
If you cannot get immediate attention from a window repair professional, it’s important to make temporary repairs. These help prevent further damage.
For example, you can use duct tape to prevent any broken glass from falling off. You can also stabilize the broken panes by using a support or brace.
Use clear packing tape or plastic sheeting to cover the cracked or shattered area. This can help prevent air and water from entering your home and causing further damage.
If the window is stuck open and cannot be closed, try using a towel or bunched-up clothing to seal the gap between the frame and the window. This can help prevent drafts and keep your home more comfortable while you wait for repairs.
Document the Damage
After securing the area and making temporary repairs, it’s important to document the damage by taking pictures and videos. Keeping a record of the damage before any repair or boarding up the window can be beneficial in case of any disputes and insurance settlement claims.
You should also keep track of how much any repairs cost. This might be important if you need to claim from your insurance. Ask your window repair company for receipts following any work they do.
Consider Prevention
After the repair, consider investing in preventative measures to prevent future damage from occurring. For instance, opting for laminated, reinforced, or tempered glass and brackets or frames that can resist extreme weather and impact damage could be a viable option.
You should also consider storm shutters and window films that can help protect your windows from harsh weather conditions and strong winds. Additionally, regularly inspecting your windows for any signs of damage and addressing these issues promptly can help prevent future emergencies.
Laminated glass is a type of safety glass that is made by sandwiching two sheets of glass with a layer of clear plastic in between. This makes the glass more durable and resistant to impact, making it a great option for homes in areas prone to severe weather conditions. Reinforced glass, on the other hand, is made by adding a layer of mesh or wire to the glass, providing extra strength and protection.
Tempered glass is another type of safety glass that is four times stronger than regular glass. It’s designed to break into small, dull fragments instead of sharp shards when broken. This helps to prevent injuries in case of breakage and is particularly useful for windows located in high-traffic areas of the home.
In addition, brackets and frames can be reinforced with supplemental features such as steel reinforcements, impact-resistant laminates, or fiberglass frames. This slows or prevents damage to the window frames caused by extreme winds or any other form of impact.
Don’t Despair When You Need Emergency Window Repair
Emergency window repair can be stressful and overwhelming, but taking the right steps in Grand Rapids, MI, to secure your home and contact professional repair services can help in saving you from more significant losses and security risks. By following the steps above, you can quickly and effectively handle any emergency window repair situation.
Always inspect the area around your window to make sure it’s clear of broken glass. You should also consider preventative measures to stop windows from breaking, like reinforced glass.
For any questions or all your window repair needs, chat with us here.