In situations where replacement glass or a new window cannot be installed immediately, Window Boarding in Bolton provides a practical temporary solution. Proper boarding can secure the opening while protecting the surrounding property until permanent repairs are arranged.
Whether damage has resulted from accidental impact, attempted entry, severe weather or another incident, acting promptly can help prevent a damaged opening from becoming a bigger problem.
What Is Window Boarding?
Window boarding involves covering a damaged or broken window opening with a secure temporary board. The purpose is to close the exposed area and provide protection until the glass or window can be properly repaired or replaced.
It is particularly useful when:
- Glass has been completely shattered.
- A window frame has been badly damaged.
- A window has been forced or broken during an attempted entry.
- Severe weather has damaged glazing.
- A permanent replacement cannot be completed immediately.
- A property needs to be secured outside normal working arrangements.
Boarding is generally a temporary measure rather than a permanent replacement for functioning glazing.
Why Is Immediate Boarding Important?
Once a window has been broken, the property can become vulnerable. Even if the opening appears relatively small, exposed areas can allow rain, wind and debris into the building.
A damaged window can also create a security concern, particularly on ground-floor properties or accessible areas.
Protecting the Property From Weather
A broken window leaves the interior exposed to rainfall and wind. Water entering through the opening can affect flooring, furnishings, plasterwork and other internal materials.
A properly secured temporary board helps close the opening while permanent repairs are arranged.
Improving Security
An open or severely damaged window can make it easier for unwanted visitors to gain access. Boarding provides a physical barrier that can help secure the property until a permanent window solution is available.
Reducing Safety Risks
Broken glass can be sharp and unstable. Removing loose fragments and securing the opening can reduce the immediate risks associated with damaged glazing.
When Might You Need Window Boarding?
There are several situations where emergency boarding may be appropriate.
After Accidental Damage
A window can be broken by a range of everyday accidents. If the glass has shattered and cannot immediately be replaced, boarding can provide short-term protection.
Following an Attempted Break-In
Forced entry can damage both the glass and the window frame. Boarding can help secure the opening while the full extent of the damage is assessed.
After Severe Weather
Strong winds or flying debris can damage glazing. If replacement materials are not immediately available, boarding can help protect the property from further exposure.
During Property Repairs
In some circumstances, a window may need to be temporarily boarded while wider building or renovation work takes place.
What Does Window Boarding Involve?
The exact process depends on the size and condition of the opening.
1. Assess the Damage
The window and surrounding frame are inspected to determine the safest way to secure the opening. Any loose or hazardous glass needs to be dealt with appropriately.
2. Measure the Opening
The temporary board needs to cover the exposed area effectively. Correct measurements help ensure that the opening is properly protected.
3. Secure the Board
The board is fixed securely to suitable parts of the surrounding structure. The method used depends on the condition and construction of the window and frame.
4. Plan the Permanent Repair
Boarding should be viewed as part of a wider response. Once the immediate opening is secured, the damaged glazing, frame or complete window can be assessed for permanent repair or replacement.
Can You Board a Double-Glazed Window?
Yes, if the double-glazed unit or surrounding window has been damaged sufficiently to leave the property exposed. However, the appropriate temporary solution depends on the nature of the damage.
If only the sealed glass unit is damaged while the frame remains secure, replacing the glazing may ultimately be sufficient. If the frame has also been forced or damaged, a more comprehensive repair may be required.
An assessment helps establish what needs to be secured immediately and what should be replaced later.
How Long Does Window Boarding Last?
Window boarding is intended as a temporary measure. How long it remains appropriate depends on the circumstances, the condition of the board and the time required to arrange the permanent repair.
It should not normally be treated as a substitute for properly functioning glazing. Once replacement glass or a new window can be installed, the temporary boarding can be removed as part of the repair process.
What Happens After a Window Is Boarded?
The next step is usually to determine whether the existing window can be repaired or whether replacement is more appropriate.
Glass Replacement
If the frame remains in good condition, replacing the damaged glazing may be enough. This can be particularly useful where the rest of the window is still functioning correctly.
Frame Repair
Where the frame has suffered damage, repairs may be necessary before new glazing can be installed.
Complete Window Replacement
If both the frame and glazing are significantly damaged or the existing window is no longer suitable, complete replacement may provide a more practical long-term solution.
The right choice depends on the condition of the whole window rather than the glass alone.
How Much Does Window Boarding Cost?
The cost of boarding depends on the circumstances of the property and the extent of the damage. Factors may include:
- Size of the window opening
- Number of windows requiring boarding
- Accessibility
- Condition of the surrounding frame
- Materials required
- Whether damaged glass needs to be dealt with first
- Timing and urgency of the work
An assessment provides a more accurate basis for determining what is required than relying on a standard price.
Why Professional Boarding Is Preferable
Boarding a damaged window may look straightforward, but working around broken glass and damaged frames can present safety risks.
A professional can assess the opening, deal with hazardous components appropriately and secure the board without unnecessarily damaging the surrounding structure.
Professional assistance also helps connect the temporary solution with the permanent repair, reducing the chance that the underlying problem is overlooked.
What Should You Do After Window Damage?
If a window has broken, avoid touching loose or shattered glass unless it is necessary to do so safely. Keep children and pets away from the affected area and avoid using the damaged window until it has been assessed.
Where practical, identify how the damage occurred and check whether nearby windows or doors have also been affected.
The priority should be to make the property safe, secure the opening and then arrange the appropriate permanent repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is window boarding used for?
Window boarding is used to temporarily secure a broken or exposed window opening. It helps protect the property until permanent glass or window repairs can be completed.
Is window boarding a permanent solution?
No. Boarding is generally a temporary security and weather-protection measure. The damaged glazing or window should be repaired or replaced when a permanent solution is available.
Can a broken double-glazed unit be boarded?
Yes. If damage has left the property exposed, temporary boarding may be appropriate while the sealed unit or complete window is assessed for replacement.
How quickly should a broken window be boarded?
It is sensible to secure a significantly damaged opening as soon as reasonably possible, particularly when the property is exposed to weather or unwanted access.
Can window boarding prevent further damage?
Properly installed boarding can help reduce exposure to rain, wind and unwanted access while permanent repairs are arranged. It does not repair the underlying window damage.
Should I replace the whole window after it breaks?
Not necessarily. If the frame remains sound, replacing the damaged glass may be sufficient. A complete replacement may be considered when the frame or other components are also badly damaged.
Is it safe to board a broken window myself?
Working around shattered glass can be hazardous, and securing a board requires appropriate fixings and safe access. Professional assistance is advisable when the damage is significant or difficult to access.
Secure Your Property After Window Damage
A broken window needs more than a quick temporary covering. The immediate priority is to secure the opening and protect the property, followed by a proper assessment of the glazing and frame.
If you need assistance from a Windows & Doors company in Greater Manchester, arranging professional help can ensure the damaged opening is secured appropriately and that the next stage of repair or replacement is clearly identified. Acting promptly can help minimise exposure to weather, improve security and make the eventual permanent repair more straightforward.
