Broken Window? Here's What to Do Right Now

You just heard glass shatter. Maybe a baseball went through your living room window. Maybe someone tried to break in. Maybe a tree branch hit during a windstorm. Whatever happened, you've got a broken window and you need to know what to do right now.

Step 1: Stay Safe

Don't walk barefoot near broken glass. Wear shoes. If you have kids or pets, keep them away from the area. Glass shards can travel surprisingly far — check the floor, furniture, and surrounding areas.

If the glass is still in the frame but cracked, don't touch it. It could fall out and cut you. Leave it alone until a professional can remove it safely.

Step 2: Secure the Opening

If it's raining or cold, you need to cover the opening immediately. Here's what works:

• • Plastic sheeting or tarp: Tape it over the opening from the inside. Use duct tape or packing tape. Make sure it's sealed around all edges.
• • Cardboard: Better than nothing. Flatten a box and tape it over the opening.
• • Plywood: If you have it, this is the best temporary solution. Screw or nail it over the opening from the outside.

This isn't permanent, but it'll keep rain and wind out until you can get the window fixed.

Step 3: Clean Up the Glass

Wear gloves. Use a broom and dustpan for big pieces. For small shards, use duct tape pressed against the floor — it picks up tiny pieces that you can't see.

Put all the glass in a cardboard box or wrap it in newspaper before throwing it away. Don't just toss it in a trash bag — it can cut through and injure someone.

Step 4: Document the Damage

Take photos of the broken window from multiple angles. Get close-ups of the damage and wide shots showing the whole window. If you're filing an insurance claim, you'll need these photos.

If the window was broken by vandalism or a break-in attempt, file a police report. You'll need the report number for your insurance claim.

Step 5: Call a Glass Contractor

Don't wait. Even if you've temporarily covered the window, you need to get it fixed properly. Water can still get in around the edges of your temporary cover, and it's not secure against break-ins.

When you call, have this information ready:

• • Window size (approximate is fine)
• • Single-pane or dual-pane
• • What floor the window is on
• • How the window broke
• • Whether you need emergency service

When to Call for Emergency Service

Call for emergency service (24/7) if:

• • The window is on the ground floor and it's a security risk
• • It's raining heavily and water is getting in
• • You can't secure the opening yourself
• • It happened after hours or on a weekend

We offer 24/7 emergency board-up service in Portland. We can be there within 1-2 hours to secure your window with plywood. Then we come back during business hours to install the permanent glass.

What About Insurance?

Most homeowners insurance covers broken windows. Your deductible is typically $500-$1,000. If the repair costs less than your deductible, you might want to pay out of pocket and avoid filing a claim.

If you do file a claim, your insurance company will want photos, a police report (if applicable), and an estimate from a glass contractor. We can provide detailed estimates and work directly with your insurance adjuster.

How Long Until It's Fixed?

Single-pane windows can often be fixed same-day or next-day. Dual-pane windows take 2-5 days because the glass has to be custom-ordered. We'll give you an exact timeline when we come out to measure.

Portland-Specific Tips

Our rainy climate means you can't leave a broken window open for long. Even a small opening can let in enough water to damage your walls, floors, and furniture. If it's October through May (rainy season), treat this as urgent.

Also, Portland has a property crime problem. A broken ground-floor window is an invitation for burglars. Don't leave it unsecured overnight.

Bottom Line

If you've got a broken window in Portland: (1) Stay safe and clean up glass carefully. (2) Cover the opening with plastic, cardboard, or plywood. (3) Take photos for insurance. (4) Call a glass contractor right away. Don't wait — water damage and security risks add up fast.