Accidents involving glass are distressing and can turn any space into a potential hazard. Knowing emergency glass repair is important to prevent further damage and protect your loved ones. In this article, we’ll discuss the essential steps to take when accidents involving glass happen.
What to Do in Case of Glass Breakage
1. Make sure everyone in the area is safe.
Safety is the primary concern in accidents involving glass. Inform everyone in the area about the broken glass. Try to cordon off the affected area to prevent more accidents.
Get rid of big pieces of broken glass with pliers or gloved hands. Wrap them with a sturdy cardboard box and label them “broken glass” so that the person handling it will know its contents.
Be careful not to overlook small glass shards; they are just as dangerous as the bigger pieces. They can get swept into corners or become embedded in carpets, endangering your family. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove them from carpets and hard surfaces. Try using a slice of bread or damp kitchen towel to pick up small fragments. The moisture helps in making the glass stick to the bread or towel.
2. Wear protective gear.
Use thick, cut-resistant gloves to prevent getting wounded. Wear closed shoes to protect your feet from glass shards. If you’re dealing with bigger pieces like shattered windows, wear safety goggles for your eyes.
3. Assess and document the damage.
Carefully check the damage to decide if a DIY fix is possible or a professional needs to step in. Take note of the following:
– Cause of breakage
It’s important to know what caused the accident as soon as possible. It can be due to wear and tear, vandalism, accident, or environmental causes. Understanding what happened will help you decide on the most appropriate type of repair. You may also need to take preventive measures in the future.
– Size
A small crack is not yet alarming, but you need to address it soon to avoid it from getting bigger. On the other hand, shattered glass needs to be replaced right away.
– Location
The location of the damage determines the urgency of the repair needed. Broken windows and glass doors need immediate attention since they affect your property’s security and insulation.
– Type of glass
Each type of glass has its own unique property, which can affect the type of repair needed. When shattered, laminated glass stays as one piece as compared to tempered glass which breaks into smaller pieces. Annealed glass breaks into big sharp pieces and needs to be taken care of immediately.
Remember to take pictures or videos of the damaged area. The documentation may be necessary when filing for insurance claims. Giving proof of the extent of damage immediately after the accident will support your claim.
4. Perform emergency glass repair.
You can perform emergency glass repair if the damage is small or secure the area until help arrives.
· Cover gaps.
If you have a broken window or door, properly cover it. This will shield your home from rain and deter burglars from breaking in. You can use plastic wrap, plywood, or cardboard.
· Seal the cracks.
Small cracks grow over time and can lead to serious problems. To help mitigate the damage, seal them temporarily. Seal the crack with a strong adhesive tape on both sides of the glass.
A glue or clear nail polish can fix tiny cracks and stop them from spreading.
DIY repair kits are also available in stores. They provide a more durable solution than cardboard or tape. These can also be used for glass with minor damage.
5. Seek help from a professional.
Temporary fixes are not meant to last long. Professional repair is necessary to ensure that your glass lasts long and does not cause further harm.
It’s already time to call a professional when the risk of getting injured is high without proper tools and skills.
Some glass types, like laminated and tempered glass, are too complex for a DIY fix. These require special skills and tools, mainly if the damage covers a large area.
Be prepared to provide details such as the extent of the damage and the type of glass. This will help the professionals to determine the best repair method to use for your situation.
Contact Glass King for Emergency Glass Repairs in Phoenix, AZ
Don’t let accidents stress you out. Glass King is your top choice for emergency glass repair, whether it’s a shattered door or just a small crack.
Our team of licensed professionals are all insured and equipped with state-of-the-art tools. We are committed to provide topnotch service to restore your glass to its former glory. No need to settle for temporary fixes when we can provide you with long-lasting solutions. Book an appointment today.