How to Handle an Emergency Window Repair
Every home has glass windows and when they break, it's a major nuisance. It's not just a sloppy look, but it exposes your home to the elements. You also become more vulnerable to criminals.
There are a number of easy ways to safeguard your window while you wait for it to be repaired.
Call Your Insurance Company
If the damaged window is caused by a weather incident or any other external factor it might be worth calling your insurer to make a claim. This could accelerate the process and allow repairs to be completed quicker. You might also be able to find a repair shop that is "in-network" with your insurance. This could reduce the amount you pay.
Even if the cause of the damage isn't covered by your insurance, it is worth calling to find out the amount you'll have to pay for emergency repairs. This will let you budget and avoid any unexpected expenses.
If you let a shattered glass window unattended, it could cause serious harm to your family. If children or pets wander into the area they may stumble upon glass shards and become injured. This type of damage is the reason it is important to take the time to complete a thorough job of emergency window repair to ensure your family's safety.
Additionally, a window that has shattered could make your home vulnerable to vandalism and burglary. An emergency 24-hour repair service for windows is designed to react quickly when doors or windows are damaged, making you and your business exposed to security threats.
It is possible dependent on your insurance provider, to find a company that is "in-network" with them. They can then invoice your insurer directly and reduce the amount you need to pay. You may be better off selecting a repair company that accepts a variety of payment methods like cash or credit cards. This will allow you more flexibility when it comes to financing repairs and reduce the risk of being swindled by unscrupulous tradespeople who could charge you an excessive amount.
It is worthwhile searching online for reviews of local window professionals and choosing one that has an excellent reputation for customer care. You may also want to determine if a company is endorsed by the trade association Checkatrade, which will give you reassurance that they have a professional approach to their work and will treat you with integrity.
Contact the Police
It is possible to notify the police right away in the event that your window has been damaged. This is especially true when your window was damaged by vandalism or burglary. Contacting the police can help them catch the perpetrator, as well providing you with a police report that can be used to make an insurance claim.
After you have reached out to the police and insurance company, you must take every step you can to safeguard your home until the glass repair is completed. Your home is left vulnerable to pests and weather, which could put your family in danger.
It is essential to keep your children away from the area, until the police arrive and confirm that it is safe to allow them back into your home. If glass is broken all across the floor, it could be dangerous for them to walk on and could result in injuries.
It is also recommended to wait until the police are finished with their investigation before cleaning the broken glasses. You might find it difficult to file a claim with your insurer to cover the damage if you clean the broken glass. Some homeowners' insurers require photos and other documentation to decide whether to accept a claim. Some insurance adjusters also like to visit a home prior to making a decision about a claim. This is usually the case following a break-in, as the insurance adjuster can verify the damage and the extent of any theft. They may also work with the homeowner in order to ensure that they are able to retrieve their money and possessions.
Repair the Damage
A broken window leaves your home vulnerable to elements, bugs and pests as well as potential thieves. It can also be an accident hazard for children who be able to fall through the glass or for anyone else who could be in the area.
Cover the crack by putting a board over it, or any other covering to stop further damage. This will ensure your family's safety. You should also call the police so that they can send an officer over to inspect the damage and file a report. This will enable the insurance company to work with law enforcement to try and recover any items that may have been stolen.
If the window was damaged by vandalism, it's also recommended to contact the local police department right away so that a police officer can visit the scene to assess the damage and write up the report. This will enable the insurance companies and police to locate criminals and hold them accountable.
In addition to making your home or business more secure, covering the crack by a board or some other type of temporary cover will also help you save money on your energy bills. A broken window will force your heating and air conditioning system to work overtime in order to keep the interior of your home warm, so by covering it, you can reduce the energy bills until the repair is completed.
One of the best ways to shield yourself from the elements while you wait for an emergency window repair expert is to make use of plywood as a temporary cover. You can purchase an item of plywood that is that is the same size as the window at a variety of hardware and home improvement stores. Then, you can screw it in it along the wood frame studs on both sides. If you do not have plywood, you can protect yourself by using a large plastic sheet or tarp.
If you're in need emergency window repairs , don't hesitate to seek out a reputable glass replacement service. They will be able to offer you the top-quality service you require and will help you get your business or home back to normal as swiftly as you can.
Find a Temporary Fix
Tape can be used to fix the crack in a window that is still intact. This will seal the crack and keep the air from getting into your home. This is crucial, particularly when you live in a region with a cold climate.
Before you apply any tape, ensure that you have removed all glass shards from the area around it. This will safeguard your family and reduce the chance of anyone getting injured by the glass. This is also a great time to wear protective eyewear and gloves with a thick layer of protection.
You should also degrease the surface of your windows If you can. This will help the repair material adhere to the glass, which results in more durable, long-lasting repairs. Depending on the type and size of your window, you can make use of either gasoline or acetone.
A second quick fix for a window that is cracked is to cover the glass with fabric. This will keep bugs and external light out of your home but still allow you to view the outside. If you do this, ensure that the fabric is big enough to completely cover the entire crack in the glass.
Then, you can think about blocking off the broken window by using a wooden block to protect your family from intruders and cold weather. This is an excellent idea if there are pets or children living in your home. Place it in a place that pets or children can't get to it.
If you've got a broken window that needs to be repaired, be sure to call an emergency window repair business immediately. They should be open all hours of the day and their customer service representatives should be able to dispatch technicians as fast as possible. Additionally, they should offer competitive pricing and quality workmanship. You shouldn't pick a company that uses inferior materials or doesn't properly install the replacement glass. Additionally, their employees should be experienced and trained in handling a variety of glazing styles and windows.