What To Do When Glass Windows Or Doors Shatter: Homeowner's Guide

Key Takeaways

• Shattered glass poses immediate safety risks; wear protective gear when cleaning up.
• Secure the area to prevent injuries and further damage.
• Temporary fixes like plastic sheeting can help until new glass is installed.
• Panda Windows & Doors provides various glass options for its windows and doors, such as double-pane, laminated, etc.

Why You Need To Fix Broken Glass Windows Or Doors Immediately

1. Safety Hazards: Broken glass poses a significant risk of injury, as sharp shards can cause cuts and lacerations.
2. Security Vulnerability: Cracked or broken windows and doors can make your home an easy target for intruders.
3. Energy Efficiency: Damaged glass leads to increased energy costs as it allows outdoor air to enter and indoor air to escape, which forces heating and cooling systems to work harder.
4. Aesthetic Appeal: Broken glass detracts from the overall appearance of your home and may decrease its value.
5. Noise: It will also allow unwanted sounds into your home, which disrupts your peace and quiet.

Since our founding in 1991, Panda Windows & Doors has specialized in state-of-the-art custom glass wall systems for both residential and commercial spaces. Operating from our manufacturing facility in Las Vegas, Nevada, we have been at the forefront of innovation for over 30 years. Our product offerings, which include over 80 high-end options, such as pivot doors, French doors, folding doors, lift & slides, multi-slides, horizontal sliding walls, and operable windows, are available in a range of materials, including aluminum, steel, stainless steel, bronze, solid wood, and aluminum-wood clad.

Our company is widely recognized for its award-winning designs, engineering solutions, and rapid delivery times. We ensure that our customers throughout the U.S. and Caribbean receive their products within 6-10 weeks. Our company is trusted by leading architectural firms and glaziers nationwide, and we stand as the premier manufacturer of custom luxury windows and doors in the United States.

Learn About Custom Solutions from Panda Windows & Doors Today

What To Do When Glass Windows Or Doors Shatter

Calling professionals is important for safe and effective glass replacement.

1. Ensure Safety

• Keep a safe distance from the broken window to avoid injuries from sharp or shattered glass.
• Keep children and pets away from the area.
• Wear gloves and protective eyewear when handling broken glass.

2. Assess the Damage

• Examine the extent of the damage.
• For windows, check for cracks, chips, or shattered glass.
• For doors, look for any large or small pieces that may have broken off.

3. Secure the Area

• Block off the area to prevent anyone from stepping on the glass.
• Place caution tape around the damaged glass.

4. Clean Up Glass Debris

• Safely collect and dispose of broken glass using a broom, dustpan, and a sturdy bag or container.
• Vacuum the area thoroughly to remove any tiny glass shards.
• A handy trick is using a flashlight to shine around the area, which makes it easier to spot small fragments and specs.

5. Cover Temporarily

• To secure your home until a glass repair technician arrives, temporarily cover the opening.
• Duct tape can serve as a makeshift solution for small cracks to prevent them from spreading.
• A cardboard or a plastic sheet can cover the opening to keep out the elements and intruders.
• Wooden boards can be secured across the opening for extra security, especially for larger windows.

6. Contact a Professional Glass Repair Service

• Contact a professional glass repair service as soon as possible.
• Provide them with all relevant details, including the window type, the extent of the damage, and any specific concerns.

7. Consider the Type of Glass for Replacement

• Tempered Glass: Designed to shatter into small, blunt pieces rather than sharp shards to reduce the risk of injury.
• Laminated Glass: Contains an interlayer that holds the pieces together when broken, which provides added security and protection from external elements.
• Double-glazed Windows: An energy-efficient option that can also provide additional security.

Read More: Double-Glazed Glass vs Regular Glass: Which Is Better?

When You’ll Need To Replace A Window

1. Evaluate Frame Condition

• Undamaged Frame: If the window or door frame is in good condition and only the glass is damaged, a glass-only replacement might be sufficient.
• Damaged Frame: If the frame shows signs of rot, warping, or other damage, a full window or door replacement may be necessary.

2. Consider Energy Efficiency

• Old Windows: If your windows are older and not energy-efficient, replacing them can improve insulation and reduce energy bills.
• Newer Windows: For newer windows with only minor glass damage, repairing might be more cost-effective than replacing the entire unit.

3. Analyze Cost Implications

• Repair Costs: Generally, repairing glass is less expensive than replacing an entire window or door. However, in some cases, repairs may only provide a temporary solution.
• Replacement Costs: While more expensive upfront, replacing windows or doors provides long-term savings through improved efficiency and reduced maintenance needs.

4. Aesthetic Factors

• Visual Appeal: Consider how repairs will affect the look of your home. Replacing old or unattractive windows can enhance curb appeal.
• Consistent Design: If maintaining a consistent architectural style is important, consider whether repairs will align with your home’s aesthetic.

Choose Panda Windows & Doors

Panda Windows & Doors provides sliding glass door options like lift & slide, multi-slide, and horizontal slide walls.

Panda Windows & Doors is a manufacturing company specializing in designing, developing, producing, and distributing state-of-the-art custom-made doors and windows for both luxury residential and commercial properties. Founded in 1991, we are dedicated to delivering elegant, minimally obtrusive, and precision-engineered products.

Here's why you should choose us for your custom glass windows and doors:

1. Quality: We use only the highest-quality glass from leading manufacturers nationwide.

2. Energy Efficiency: Low-E (low-emissivity) glass comes standard on all our products, with options to upgrade to more advanced variants.

3. Customization: Dual-pane glass comes standard, but you can also choose triple-pane glass for better energy efficiency and noise reduction.

4. Gas Filling: You can opt for argon gas filling, which is a non-toxic, inert gas denser than air. When sealed between panes, it enhances insulation. This leads to better energy efficiency and reduced condensation.

5. Variety: We provide a wide range of glass options with various efficiency levels, and each can be customized with or without argon gas.

Reach out to us to learn more about our products and get a free quote.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I clean up shattered glass safely?

Start by putting on thick gloves and protective eyewear. Carefully pick up the larger pieces of glass and dispose of them in a sturdy container. For smaller shards, use a broom and dustpan to sweep them up, and then vacuum the area to catch any remaining glass particles.

What types of glass are best for home windows?

For safety and durability, tempered glass is a popular choice because it’s designed to break into small, less dangerous pieces. Laminated glass is another excellent option that provides added security and sound insulation.

For energy efficiency, consider low-emissivity (Low-E) glass, which has a special coating to reflect heat and reduce UV exposure.

Can I repair a double-pane window with a broken seal?

No, once a double-pane window's seal is broken, it cannot be repaired. The best option is to replace the entire window unit.

How do I maintain my glass windows and doors?

• Regularly clean the glass with appropriate cleaners to avoid scratches.
• Inspect seals and frames for damage or wear.
• Address any issues promptly for longevity.

What sets Panda Windows & Doors apart from competitors?

Our dedication to quality materials and craftsmanship, combined with our extensive customization options and innovative designs, sets us apart. We continually push the boundaries of design to produce visually striking and functional products.

To learn about more reasons to choose us, click here.