Storefront glass broken: how to secure your business
Rope off the area and keep customers and staff away from broken glass. If it was a break-in, call the police before cleanup. Photograph everything, then board up the opening so the business is secure tonight. Replacement glass often has to be ordered. Call 833-877-1717 to request an independent board-up or commercial glass provider.
RepairNowUSA editorial review · Last substantively reviewed October 13, 2026 · Review standards
Make the area safe
- Keep people away from the opening and any glass still in the frame. Cracked glass can fall without warning.
- Rope or tape off the sidewalk area and post staff if needed.
- Sweep and vacuum glass from walkways using heavy gloves and closed shoes.
- Do not try to pull large pieces out of the frame.
- If a vehicle hit the building, stay out until the structure is checked, and do not move the vehicle until police say so.
Break-in or vandalism
- Call the police before cleanup if it was a crime, and get the report number.
- Photograph the damage, any tools or rocks, and missing merchandise.
- Pull security camera footage.
- Check other doors and windows for damage.
- Change codes or locks if keys or access cards may have been taken.
Board up tonight, replace later
Replacement storefront glass is often custom-sized, and tempered or laminated glass usually has to be ordered. That can take days or longer. In the meantime:
- A board-up provider can cover the opening with plywood fastened to the frame or wall, so the building is secure and weathertight.
- For doors, a temporary door or plywood panel with a secure lock may be possible.
- Some businesses add a printed sign on the board so customers know they are open.
Know your glass
- Tempered glass breaks into small cubes. It is common in doors and low windows.
- Laminated glass cracks but stays in place, held together by a plastic interlayer.
- Insulated units have two panes with a sealed air space.
- Many building codes require safety glazing in doors and near walkways, so replacement glass must meet the same standard.
Insurance and documentation
- Many commercial property policies cover glass, sometimes with a separate deductible.
- Keep the police report number, photos and receipts for board-up.
- Get a written estimate for the replacement.
- If you lease, notify the landlord; the lease may make them or you responsible for glass.
Getting a provider
When you call 833-877-1717, give the size of the opening, whether it is a door or window, the type of glass if you know it, and whether you need board-up now, replacement, or both. RepairNowUSA looks for a participating independent provider; the provider confirms timing and price with you.
How RepairNowUSA can help
Call 833-877-1717 and describe what is happening and the property ZIP code. RepairNowUSA looks for a participating independent provider for that kind of work in your area and connects you if one is available. The provider confirms timing, scope and price with you and does the work. Availability and response times vary and are not guaranteed.
Call 833-877-1717Common questions
How fast can storefront glass be replaced?
Temporary board-up can often be done the same day. Replacement glass, especially tempered, laminated or insulated units in custom sizes, often has to be ordered and can take days or longer.
Should I clean up glass before the police arrive?
If it was a crime, wait for police when you can, but make the area safe for people right away. Photograph everything before cleanup.
Does insurance cover broken storefront glass?
Many commercial property policies cover glass, sometimes with a separate deductible. Check your policy and lease.
Can I stay open with the window boarded up?
Often yes, if the opening is secure, the area is safe and exits are not blocked. Check with your landlord and any local requirements.
Can I call any time?
Yes. You can call 833-877-1717 at any time, including nights, weekends and holidays. Whether an independent provider can come out right away depends on your ZIP code, the time and provider capacity, so availability is not guaranteed.
Authoritative references
These public sources give general safety context. They do not replace an on-site evaluation, and RepairNowUSA does not perform the work.