How to Temporarily Fix a Broken Window

Windows open our living spaces to natural light and ventilation, provide us with outdoor views, and add architectural interest to our homes. But sometimes we take them for granted, particularly if our windows have performed reliably over the years. Old faithfuls, let’s call them. But imagine it’s a Saturday, and, as you’re locking up the house for a night out, you think, “Where should we go for dinner?” And then – whack! – a golf ball smacks into your living room window, cracking it in spectacular fashion, and ruining your dinner plans. That’s the moment you can’t take your windows for granted anymore. Now, you need to get your window fixed – but speedy window repair service at such a late weekend hour is not an option.

Don’t worry. There’s a way to fix a broken window that will keep out the weather and insects until you can arrange a permanent solution. You’ll need a few readily available items:

• Work gloves
• Clear packing tape
• Clear nail polish
• A tape measure
• Scissors
• Thick, clear plastic sheeting
• A sturdy trash bag

The repair process for a crack

Put on your work gloves and carefully examine the damaged window pane. If it’s cracked and there’s no glass missing, gently press the cracked area to ensure that the glass isn’t loose enough to fall out. Place a piece of clear tape over the crack. Do this on both sides of the pane and rub the tape to smooth out air bubbles. If you notice a tiny hole or missing pieces of glass near the intersection of cracks, patch the glass with nail polish. With smooth strokes, apply the polish in layers, a small amount at a time. Let the polish dry between coats, and keep applying until the holes are patched.

The repair process for a broken pane

If your damaged window has a hole that’s too large for tape or nail polish, remove loose glass shards carefully using work gloves. Measure the area that needs to be covered. (For optimal safety and security, it’s best to cover the entire broken pane.) Cut a trash bag to size with scissors and cover the broken pane with multiple layers of the bag. Now, tape it into place with clear packing tape. You should cover both sides of the broken pane in this manner.

Another Option

If you need more security or if aesthetics is not an issue, you can board up your window. Simply cover your window with however many pieces of board you need and nail them into the sill or window frame.

For some homeowners, a shattered window provides the perfect reason to replace windows that have been less than satisfactory. In Long Island, Alure Home Improvements offers full-frame window replacement services that will improve your home’s style and energy efficiency. That’s because we offer innovative UltraShield windows in an array of attractive styles, from our low-maintenance double hung to our slim-lined casement. One of our knowledgeable consultants will be happy to help you choose a replacement window with exactly the design options and energy-efficient features you want. Contact us to learn more.