Guidance on Broken Window Glass
If you have shattered or cracked windows in your home or office, then you must deal with the matter as soon as possible. Not only can shards of glass be dangerous for those around them, but they can leave your property in an insecure state. Of course, this will mean calling on the services of a reliable glazier who can either repair or replace the affected windows. In the meantime, what should you do?
Make Personal Safety a Priority
Any glazier will tell you that a broken window pane may mean that you have suffered a break-in. Therefore, you should only re-enter your property if you are sure that you are in no potential danger. If you have any doubts or think that the broken glazing may not have been accidental, then you should call the police. Clearing up the broken glass before forensic policing has taken place may mean that evidence is lost as to who might have committed the crime. In addition, going back into your home when you have others with you may be advisable if you wish to avoid a potential confrontation.
Take a Photo
Before you clear up the mess from a broken window, it is worth considering making an insurance claim. Some insurance companies will want to you to provide evidence in support of your claim, so take a few photos of the window before you clear up the mess or have your glazier repair it for you. Bear in mind that many people's home insurance will cover the full costs of a replacement window, as well as the glazier's repair bill.
Protect Yourself
Clearing up broken glass may mean that tiny shards fly up towards you. Ideally, you will sweep up the broken glass with an ash pan and brush, but it is worth protecting your hands with gloves as well as your eyes to ensure the finest fragments of glass don't cause harm. Wrap up the broken glass in old newspaper and place it in the bin carefully.
Secure the Window
Unless you have a glazier who can come to your property immediately, you will need to make sure that your home is resecured. When you have a cracked pane of glass, placing tape over the crack is a good idea to stop it spreading. Do this with a light touch, however, since pushing hard on a cracked section may make the problem worse, not better. If the window has been smashed, pinning a section of wood to the frame to block up the hole is the best option. Not only does this mean that your property becomes secure once more, but it means that heat will not escape so rapidly from your home.
For more information about replacing a broken window, contact a local glazier.