Broken windows are a safety hazard, which is why they should be replaced as soon as possible. If you can’t, you should take the following precautions to minimize the risk of injury.
Block Off the Area Littered With Glass Shards
If strong winds or outside debris broke your window, the blunt impact may have scattered some of the glass shards on your floor. Block off the area to prevent kids or pets from getting hurt. As an added precaution, make sure everyone in the house wears slippers or protective footwear.
Dispose of the Shards
Put on a pair of heavy-duty gloves, and carefully pick up the shards. You’ll also need to dispose of the glass still attached to the frame’s edges as it’s still a safety hazard.
Cover Gaps in the Window With Clear Plastic
To reduce the outflow of heat, cover gaps with a sheet of clear plastic or a trash bag. You can use either packing tape or a staple gun to attach the sheet to the frame.
What About Minor Cracks?
If your window only has a few cracks and is mostly intact, you can also use packing tape to cover them. What if it only has small holes? Apply a small amount of clear nail polish. Let the first layer dry before adding another coat.
What to Consider Before Getting a Replacement
Before buying a window replacement, find out what broke the glass. That piece of info can help you choose a more durable window. For example, tornadoes tend to be fairly common in some parts of the Midwest. Homeowners in those areas might benefit from installing storm windows, which act as a barrier protecting the glass from gale-force winds.
Keep in mind that not all windows can be fitted with a storm window. For example, you can install storm windows on double hung replacement windows, but not casement windows. As such, it would be a good idea to consult a qualified contractor before making a purchase.
Looking for high-quality replacement windows?
Renewal by Andersen® Midwest offers a wide variety of premium windows, including replacement casement windows. To schedule a free consultation with one of our design experts, call us at (866) 609-5033, or fill out this form.
