What You Will Need Before You Start
Before you begin boarding up a broken window, it is important to gather the right tools and materials so the job can be done safely and quickly. You should wear safety equipment, such as heavy-duty gloves, safety goggles, and thick clothing, to protect yourself from sharp glass. The tools you will need to carry out the job include a measuring tape to check the size of the window opening, a hammer or drill to fix the boards, a screwdriver if using screws, and a pry bar to remove any damaged parts of the frame if necessary.
For materials, it's always best to prepare some sturdy plywood board that fully covers the opening, along with nails or screws to secure it, and wood strips if extra support is required. Strong tape or cardboard can be used as a short-term cover until the board is in place. Finally, it's best to make sure you have enough clean-up items, such as a dustpan, gloves and a brush, to sweep up any broken glass, as well as thick rubbish bags for safe disposal. When you have all of these ready before you start, you'll be able to work more efficiently and reduce the risk of injury.
Preparing the Area Around the Broken Window
Before you begin boarding up the broken window, it is important to make the area safe. Start by clearing away any loose glass pieces on the floor or window ledge. Always use a dustpan and a small brush to carefully sweep up the shards, and place them straight into a thick rubbish bag so they cannot cut through. If there are larger pieces of glass still hanging in the frame, wear heavy-duty gloves and remove them gently to stop them from falling while you work.
Next, move any furniture, curtains or items that are close to the window so they do not get damaged or pick up shards of glass. If possible, vacuum around the area to catch smaller fragments that may be hard to see. Make sure children and pets are kept away until the space is completely clean.
Finally, wipe down the window frame to remove dust and dirt. This will give you a clear surface to work on and help the plywood board fit securely. By preparing the area properly, you make the job both safer and easier to complete.
How to Measure and Cut the Board Correctly
To make sure the plywood board fits securely, you must measure the window opening with care. You want to begin by using a measuring tape to see the height and width of your window frames. Write down the measurements, then add at least five to eight centimetres to each side. This extra space ensures the board overlaps the frame and can be fixed in place firmly.
Once you have the correct size, mark the measurements clearly onto the plywood with a pencil and a straight edge. Double-check your markings before cutting to avoid mistakes. Place the board on a flat, stable surface and cut along the lines using a saw. If you intend to use a power saw, you must make sure you wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself.
After cutting, check that the edges are smooth. If they are rough or splintered, sand them lightly to prevent injury and make handling easier. Before fixing the board, hold it up against the window opening to confirm it fits correctly. Making these checks now will save time and ensure the board gives strong, even coverage.
Safety Tips to Avoid Injuries
Working with broken glass and tools can be dangerous, so it is important to take simple steps to protect yourself. Always wear heavy-duty gloves when handling glass to prevent cuts, and use safety goggles to keep small shards out of your eyes. Long sleeves and trousers will give you extra protection for your skin.
Keep the work area clear by removing children, pets and any unnecessary items from the space. Broken glass can scatter, so sweep and vacuum carefully before and after the job. Dispose of all glass safely in thick rubbish bags that will not tear easily.
When cutting your plywood, be sure to do so on a flat, stable surface and handle all your tools slowly and carefully, especially if you're not familiar with them. With a power saw or drill, always wear ear protection and follow the instructions for safe use.
Never rush the job, as most accidents happen when people are in a hurry. Following these easy safety tips will allow you to limit the risk of any injury and complete the task with greater confidence.
When to Call a Professional for Help
When boarding up a broken window can often be managed as a temporary fix, there are times when calling a professional is the safer and more effective choice. If the window is very large or the damage affects more than just the glass, such as the frame or surrounding structure, it may be too difficult to handle on your own. A professional can make sure the repair is carried out correctly and securely.
You should also seek help if the window is on an upper floor or in a hard-to-reach area. Working at height without the right equipment can be dangerous, and trained experts have the tools to manage this safely. If you do not have the right materials or tools, or you simply do not feel confident with tasks like cutting plywood or using power tools, a professional glazier or repair service can step in. They will not only secure the window but also provide a lasting solution by replacing the glass.
In some cases, especially after a break-in or storm damage, calling a professional right away can also give you peace of mind that your home is safe and secure.
We provide fast, reliable double-glazing repair services to restore clarity, warmth and security to your property. We can fix misted units, damaged seals, panes and more.
