Whether it was a stray baseball, a rogue bird, or an infamous DFW hailstorm, a shattered window is a problem that needs addressing immediately. When glass breaks, it breaks both into visible pieces, and microscopic glass dust.
First, remove any pets or children from the room.
Next, make sure that you are dressed in thick-soled shoes and work gloves. Never clean glass in flip-flops or socks. Also, make sure to wear eye protection, in order to prevent glass splinters from getting in the eyes.
If you see large shards hanging in the window frames, do not pull them out yet. They could potentially fall and slice your arms. Make sure that the area is secure, and use a sturdy container to catch these.
Clean up big pieces first while wearing protective gloves. Place them in a rigid container like a cardboard box or plastic bucket. Do not use plastic trash bags, because the glass can slice right through.
Use a broom and dustpan to sweep up the visible debris. Avoid straw brooms, as shards can get trapped in the fibers and fall out later. We recommend using a silicone broom or stiff-bristled plastic broom.
To find pieces that may initially appear invisible, turn off the lights and shine a flashlight at a low angle across the floor. This should catch stray pieces that may have been missed on the first sweep.
To pick up microscopic shards, you can use damp paper towels, patting the area to pick up these shards. Do not wipe or slide, as this can scratch your flooring. Just press down gently to grab the glass dust. Avoid using household vacuums to remove dust, as the fans or motor can become damaged. If you need to vacuum, we recommend using a shop vacuum that is designed for cleaning up hazardous debris like glass.
When you are finished, tape up your cardboard box and clearly label it “broken glass,” in order to protect sanitation workers. Rinse your broom and dustpan outside with a hose to remove any remaining debris.
If you need to board up your window in the meantime or schedule a replacement window, we can offer you assistance. Simply contact us and we will provide you with a free quote.