Why the First Visit Does Not Always End with New Glass
When glass breaks, most property owners understandably want it replaced immediately. Sometimes that is possible. In other cases, the safest and most effective first step is to board the opening and return with glass made to the correct specification.
Boarding does not mean the job has stalled. It is a controlled temporary measure used when a permanent replacement cannot safely or correctly be completed during the first attendance.
When Immediate Replacement May Be Possible
A prompt replacement is more likely when the opening is accessible, the frame is serviceable, the dimensions can be confirmed and a suitable standard glass product is available.
The glazier still needs to establish that the proposed glass is appropriate for its location and use. Speed matters during an emergency, but it should not come at the expense of fitting the wrong product.
Why Temporary Boarding May Be Required
Boarding is often needed when the pane is unusually large, shaped, tinted, patterned, fire-resistant, part of a sealed unit or made to another specialist specification. It may also be necessary if the frame, door, locks or surrounding structure have been damaged.
Access can also affect the decision. High-level glass, restricted sites and openings requiring specialist lifting equipment may need a separate survey or planned return visit.
What Happens During a Make Safe Visit
The glazing team will assess the damaged area, control or remove immediate hazards where it is safe to do so and secure the opening. Measurements and other details can then be taken for the permanent work.
For businesses, the team may also need to coordinate with a site manager, landlord, security provider or facilities-management contact. Photographs and clear job records can help everyone understand what has been completed and what remains outstanding.
What Happens Next
Once the required glass and any associated components have been confirmed, the permanent repair can be quoted, scheduled and completed. Timescales depend on the specification, size, manufacturing requirements, access and condition of the frame or surrounding system.
If damage resulted from a break-in, impact or structural movement, additional security, door, shutter or frame work may also be appropriate. The cause and wider condition of the installation should not be ignored simply because the opening has been boarded.
What to Tell the Emergency Glazier
Provide the address, type of property, location of the damage, approximate dimensions and information about access. Explain whether glass is still hanging in the frame, whether the property can be secured and whether doors, shutters or locks are affected.
Photographs taken from a safe position are helpful. Do not put yourself at risk to obtain them.
Emergency Glazing and Boarding from Prentice Glass
Prentice Glass provides emergency boarding, glazing and associated reactive services for residential and commercial properties. Contact the 24-hour service shown on the website when damaged glass requires urgent attention.
Frequently asked questions
- Is boarding up a permanent repair?
Normally no. Boarding is a temporary way to make an opening safer and more secure while the correct permanent glazing is prepared.
- Why can some glass not be replaced immediately?
The pane may require specialist glass, exact fabrication, a sealed unit, unusual dimensions, frame repairs or access equipment that is not available during the first visit.
- Can a shop or office remain open after boarding?
It depends on the location and extent of the damage, access and the organisation’s own safety responsibilities. The responsible person should assess whether the premises can operate safely.
- What should I do while waiting for the glazier?
Keep people away from the affected area, avoid touching unstable glass and provide clear access and information when the glazing team arrives.