How to Handle an Emergency Window Repair
Glass windows are a common feature in homes, and when they break, it could be a real nuisance. Not only does it look awful, but it also exposes your property to elements and makes you vulnerable to crime.
Fortunately, there are some simple ways that you can protect your window until you are able to get it fixed.
Call Your Insurance Company
It is worth calling your insurance company to submit a claim in the event that the broken window was the result of an event related to weather or other external factors. This could make the process easier and allow repairs to be completed quicker. You may also be able to find a repair shop that is "in-network" with your insurance. This can reduce the amount you pay.
Even in the event that the cause of the damage isn't covered by your insurance, it is worth making a call to find out the amount you'll have to pay for emergency repairs anyway. This will help you budget for the expenses and prevent unexpected costs when it comes to paying the bill.
If you leave a shattered glass window unattended, it can be a serious risk to your family. If pets or children enter the room, they can stumble on the glass shards and be injured. It is important to repair your emergency windows in a timely manner to protect your family from this type of damage.
In addition, a window that has shattered can leave your property vulnerable to vandalism and burglary. The 24-hour emergency service for window repair is designed to respond swiftly when your windows or doors are damaged, leaving you and your business exposed to security threats.
You might be able depending on the insurance company you have to find a business that is "in-network" with them. They can then invoice your insurer directly and reduce the amount you need to pay. However, you might be better off with a repair company that offers various payment options, including cash and credit cards. This will give you more choice in financing the repair and will reduce your risk of being swindled by fraudulent tradespeople who will charge you a large amount.
It is worth searching online for reviews of local window experts and then selecting one with a good reputation for customer care. Find out if the company is endorsed by Checkatrade. This will give you confidence that they are professional and will treat you with respect.
Contact the Police
It is possible to contact the police immediately if your window is broken. This is especially true if the window was damaged by vandalism or burglary. Contacting the police can help you catch the culprit and also make a report that can be used for filing an insurance claim.
After you have contacted the police and your insurance company, you must take as much as you can to safeguard your home from intruders until glass repair takes place. If you leave your home unprotected, it makes vulnerable to pests and weather, which can put your family at risk.
It is crucial to keep your children out from the area, until the police arrive and verify that it is safe to allow them back into your home. It can be dangerous to walk on broken pieces of glass.
It is also recommended to wait until the police have finished with their investigation before cleaning up the broken glasses. If you do, it could make it harder to make an effective claim with your insurance company for the damage. Certain homeowners' insurance companies require photos and other evidence to accept claims. Additionally, some insurance adjusters like to visit the home prior to making the decision to approve a claim. This is particularly common following a break-in, as the adjuster is able to verify the extent of damage and the scope of any theft. They can also work with the homeowner in order to ensure that they can retrieve their money and possessions.
Cover the Damage
A broken window can leave your home open to the elements, pests and bugs, and even potential thieves. A window that is broken can pose a safety hazard for children or anyone else who is in the vicinity.
Cover the broken area with a board, or some other kind of cover, to prevent further damage. This will keep your family safe. You should also call the police to have an officer come and inspect the damage. This will assist the police and the insurance company collaborate to find any items that might have been stolen from your property.
If the window was damaged due to vandalism, it's also a good idea to call the local police department right away to allow an officer to come over and view the damage and then write an account. This will allow the police and insurance companies to track down criminals and make them accountable.
In addition to making your home or business safer, covering the break with a board or 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 extra hard to keep the inside of your home warm. So by covering it, you can reduce your energy costs until the repair is completed.
One of the best ways to protect yourself from the elements while you wait for a professional emergency window repair is to use plywood as an interim cover. You can purchase a piece of plywood the same size as the window at most hardware and home improvement stores. Then, you can screw it in place along the wood frame studs on both sides. If you don't have plywood, you can protect yourself by using a large plastic sheet or tarp.
If you're in need urgent window repairs, don't hesitate to get in touch with a reliable glass replacement service. They can provide you with high-quality services and help you return your business or home to normal as quickly as possible.
Temporary Fix
If your window has been damaged however it could be possible to create a temporary fix with tape. This will close the gap and stop air from entering your home. This is particularly important if you live the colder climate.
Before you apply any tape, ensure that you remove all the glass fragments from the surrounding area. This will protect your family and reduce the possibility of anyone being injured by the glass. Wear gloves that are thick and wear protective eyewear.
It is also recommended to clean the surface of your windows If you can. This will help the repair materials stick to the glass, leading to a stronger, longer-lasting fix. You can use acetone or gasoline, depending on the type of window you have.
A second quick fix for a window that is cracked is to cover the glass with a piece fabric. This keeps bugs and outside light out of your home and still allow you to see outside. Make sure that the fabric is large enough to completely cover the glass crack.
Finally, you should consider blocking off the broken window by using a wooden block to shield your family from burglars and cold weather. This is a great idea if there are children or pets in your home. Put it in a spot where your children or pets are not able to get to it.
Call an emergency window repair service as soon as you can if your window is broken and needs to be repaired. They should be open all hours of the day and their customer service representatives should be able dispatch technicians as fast as possible. In addition, they must offer competitive pricing and top-quality workmanship. You don't choose a company who uses cheap materials or does not correctly install replacement glass. The technicians must also be experienced and trained in dealing with various window designs and types.