A shattered window is stressful any time of year — but during a freeze, it becomes an urgent problem. Cold air rushes in, energy bills spike, and your home is suddenly exposed to moisture, icy drafts, and even pets or pests slipping through the gap. Acting quickly can prevent further damage and keep your home safe until the glass can be repaired.
Why Windows Break More Easily in Freezing Weather
During cold snaps, glass becomes more brittle and less flexible. Sudden temperature changes — like blasting the heater or using hot water on icy glass — can cause stress fractures. Moisture trapped in small cracks can freeze and expand overnight, turning minor damage into a full break. Even older windows with worn seals or weakened frames are more vulnerable when temperatures drop.
What to Do Immediately After a Window Shatters
- Carefully remove or sweep away loose glass to prevent cuts or injuries.
- Keep kids and pets away from the affected area.
- Cover the opening with heavy-duty trash bags, cardboard, plastic sheeting, or plywood.
- Secure the temporary covering tightly to block freezing air and moisture.
- Close off the room if possible to maintain a stable indoor temperature.
How to Minimize Damage Before Repair
- Inspect the surrounding frame for cracks, loose pieces, or moisture.
- Keep the room warm to prevent nearby pipes from freezing.
- Avoid placing space heaters directly against the temporary covering.
- Check the barrier’s stability if snow, wind, or ice is expected.
- Monitor for drafts or moisture until a technician can replace the glass.
When to Call a Professional
A shattered window during a freeze isn’t something to postpone. The longer the opening stays exposed, the greater the chance of water damage, heat loss, mold growth, or security risks. A glass professional can assess whether you need a full replacement or just a new insulated glass unit, and they can ensure the frame and seals haven’t been compromised by the break or the temperature shifts.
Let Glass Doctor Restore Your Home Quickly
When winter weather hits and a window unexpectedly shatters, Glass Doctor is ready to help. Our experts can secure the opening, replace the glass quickly, and restore the insulation your home needs during freezing temperatures.
Call Glass Doctor for immediate glass repair and get your home warm and protected again — even in the coldest conditions.
