Can you temporarily fix a broken shop front window yourself? – London Business News | London Wallet

A broken window has a way of happening at the worst possible time. Late at night. During a storm. Right before a weekend. Or just as you’re locking up your shop for the evening.

The natural instinct? Fix it yourself — at least temporarily.

But is that a good idea?

The short answer: yes, in some cases you can apply a temporary fix — but only if it’s done safely and correctly. The keyword here is temporary. A DIY patch is never a substitute for proper emergency glazing or full glass replacement.

Let’s break down what you can safely do, what you shouldn’t attempt, and when it’s time to call professionals. Especially if you’re dealing with a commercial glass repair.

First things first: Is it safe to approach?

Before grabbing tools or tape, assess the situation:

• Is the glass still actively cracking or falling?
• Are there large, unstable shards in the frame?
• Was the break caused by a break-in?
• Is the window structural or load-bearing?

If the damage is extensive, especially after vandalism or forced entry, it’s safer to contact emergency professionals immediately. Disturbing the area could worsen the damage — or even interfere with a police report if required.

If it’s minor storm damage or a small crack, you may be able to apply a short-term solution.

What counts as a “temporary fix”?

A temporary fix is designed to:

• Prevent injury
• Reduce further cracking
• Protect against weather
• Maintain basic security
• Minimise heat loss

It is not meant to restore full insulation or structural integrity.

Scenario 1: Small crack (no missing glass)

If your window has a hairline crack but remains intact:

What you can do:

• Apply clear packing tape on both sides of the crack.
• Cover the entire cracked area in a crisscross pattern.

This won’t repair the glass, but it may:

• Slow crack expansion
• Prevent shards from falling
• Reduce immediate risk

However, cracks often spread quickly with temperature changes — especially in the UK’s fluctuating climate.

Even small cracks should be professionally assessed.

Scenario 2: Hole in the glass

If there’s a small hole but most of the pane remains:

Temporary option:

• Wear thick gloves.
• Carefully remove loose fragments.
• Cover the opening with heavy-duty plastic sheeting.
• Secure tightly with strong tape on all sides.

This helps block wind and rain temporarily.

⚠ Important: Do not press hard against the remaining glass — this can cause further shattering.

Scenario 3: Fully shattered pane

When a pane is completely broken, your priorities are safety and protection.

Step 1: Remove loose glass safely

• Wear thick gloves.
• Use eye protection.
• Place glass fragments in a sturdy box (not a thin bin bag).

Step 2: Cover the opening

Temporary materials you can use:

• Plywood (best option)
• Heavy-duty plastic sheeting
• A tarp secured tightly

Plywood offers better security than plastic and is recommended if the window is accessible from ground level.

But remember — boarding is a short-term solution, not a repair.

What you should NEVER attempt

DIY window fixes become dangerous when homeowners:

• Try to cut replacement glass yourself
• Attempt to reseal double-glazing units
• Ignore broken locking mechanisms
• Leave jagged edges exposed
• Climb ladders without proper safety support

Modern windows — particularly double-glazed units — are sealed systems. Once broken, they cannot be properly repaired without replacing the glass unit entirely.

Trying to patch double glazing often leads to:

• Condensation between panes
• Seal failure
• Reduced insulation
• Higher long-term costs

The hidden risks of leaving it too long

It’s easy to think, “I’ll deal with it tomorrow.”

But even a temporarily covered window can cause:

• Rapid heat loss
• Increased energy bills
• Moisture entering wall cavities
• Frame warping
• Insurance complications
• Increased security risk

If rain enters the frame, internal damage can escalate quickly — especially with timber structures.

When to call an emergency glazier

You should contact a professional immediately if:

• The window affects home security
• The property is exposed to weather
• It’s a shopfront or commercial space
• The glass is safety or laminated glass
• The damage involves multiple panes

Professional emergency glazing services can:

• Safely remove all broken glass
• Install secure boarding
• Replace sealed double-glazed units
• Restore security quickly

For local homeowners and businesses, experienced specialists such as Wallington Glass provide rapid emergency window repairs, boarding services, and full glass replacement — ensuring the problem is solved properly, not just patched.

What about insurance?

Before carrying out any major cleanup:

• Take clear photographs of the damage
• Document the cause (if visible)
• Check your policy coverage

Most insurers expect you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage, which includes arranging emergency repairs promptly.

DIY vs professional: The honest comparison

DIY fixes are about buying time — not solving the problem.

Final verdict: Yes, but carefully

So, can you temporarily fix a broken window yourself?

Yes — if the damage is minor and you take proper safety precautions.

But any broken window should be professionally repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

Glass is part of your shop’s:

• Security system
• Insulation barrier
• Structural integrity
• Weather defence

Treating it as anything less can lead to bigger problems down the line.

When in doubt, secure it safely — and call the professionals.