A broken window is an inconvenience, compromising security and insulation. You can often repair the damage temporarily instead of replacing the entire window. Here’s how to fix a broken window without replacing it.

Important Note: These are temporary fixes. For severe damage or safety concerns, professional repair or replacement is recommended.

Assessing the Damage: Is a DIY Fix Possible?

Before starting, evaluate the damage:

  • Type of Break: Small crack, large hole, or shattered glass?
  • Glass Type: Single-pane, double-pane (insulated), or tempered glass?
  • Location: Easily accessible? Safety is paramount.

DIY repair is possible for minor damage, single-pane glass, and accessible windows. For significant damage or safety concerns, call a professional.

Temporary Fixes for Small Cracks and Holes

These solutions offer immediate protection.

1. Clear Packing Tape

The quickest, easiest solution for minor cracks.

  • Materials Needed: Clear packing tape, clean cloth, glass cleaner (optional).
  • Steps:
    • Clean around the crack.
    • Dry the area.
    • Apply overlapping strips of tape on both sides.
    • Smooth out air bubbles.

Pros: Inexpensive, readily available, easy to apply. Cons: Not aesthetically pleasing, temporary only.

2. Clear Nail Polish or Super Glue (for hairline cracks)

Best for very small cracks.

  • Materials Needed: Clear nail polish or super glue, clean cloth, acetone.
  • Steps:
    • Clean around the crack.
    • Apply a thin layer into the crack.
    • Allow to dry.
    • Clean up excess with acetone.

Pros: Can prevent further cracking, relatively invisible. Cons: Only for very small cracks, can be messy.

3. Commercial Glass Repair Kit

Resin and tools for repairing small cracks and chips.

  • Materials Needed: Glass repair kit.
  • Steps:
    • Clean the damaged area.
    • Apply resin per instructions.
    • Cure the resin (UV light or sunlight).
    • Remove excess resin and polish.

Pros: More durable, cleaner finish. Cons: More expensive, requires careful application.

Temporary Fixes for Larger Holes or Shattered Glass

More substantial, but temporary.

1. Plastic Sheeting and Duct Tape

Effective for covering larger openings.

  • Materials Needed: Heavy-duty plastic sheeting, duct tape, utility knife, measuring tape, gloves.
  • Steps:
    • Measure the opening.
    • Cut plastic sheeting larger than the opening.
    • Wearing gloves, remove loose glass.
    • Attach sheeting with duct tape, ensuring a tight seal.
    • Apply multiple tape layers.

Pros: Relatively inexpensive, good protection. Cons: Not aesthetically pleasing, blocks light, temporary only.

2. Plywood or Cardboard

A robust barrier, especially for security.

  • Materials Needed: Plywood or cardboard, measuring tape, saw (plywood), utility knife (cardboard), screws/nails (plywood), duct tape (cardboard), gloves.
  • Steps:
    • Measure the opening.
    • Cut plywood or cardboard to size.
    • Wearing gloves, remove loose glass.
    • Secure plywood with screws/nails; cardboard with duct tape.
    • Ensure a tight fit.

Pros: Strong protection and security. Cons: Blocks all light, unappealing, more effort.

Safety Precautions

  • Wear gloves: Protect hands from cuts.
  • Eye protection: Prevent glass shards from entering eyes.
  • Clean up thoroughly: Vacuum or sweep up all broken glass.
  • Be careful at heights: Use a sturdy ladder and a spotter. Call a pro if uncomfortable.