What should I do if my window is smashed during a break-in in Bexhill-on-Sea? +
First, make sure it is safe to enter your property and call the police to report the break-in — you will need a crime reference number for your insurance claim. Do not touch or clear up broken glass until the police have attended if possible. Call an emergency glazier in Bexhill-on-Sea to board up the opening immediately, then arrange permanent glass replacement. Take photographs of all damage before any clean-up for your insurer.
What is the difference between toughened and laminated glass? +
Toughened glass is heat-treated to be four to five times stronger than standard glass. When it breaks, it shatters into small, relatively harmless granules rather than sharp shards. Laminated glass has a plastic interlayer that holds the glass together when broken — the pane cracks but stays in the frame. Laminated is typically used for security, while toughened is required by building regulations in doors and low-level windows.
What is the difference between boarding up and glass replacement? +
Boarding up is a temporary security measure using plywood or OSB board to cover a broken window or door opening. It is done immediately to protect your property from weather and intruders. Glass replacement is the permanent fix — your glazier will measure up, order the correct glass specification, and fit it once it arrives. Most glaziers offer both services and will deduct the board-up cost from the replacement price.
Will my home insurance cover a broken window? +
Most home insurance policies cover accidental damage to glass under the buildings insurance section, and many include specific glass cover as standard. Break-in damage is covered under your policy's malicious damage or theft section — you will need a police crime reference number. Check your excess before claiming, as for a single standard window the repair cost may be close to or below your excess, making a claim not worthwhile.
Can you replace just the glass in a double glazed window? +
Yes, in most cases the sealed double glazing unit can be replaced without changing the frame — this is called a 'unit swap' and costs significantly less than a full window replacement. The glazier removes the beading, takes out the failed unit, and fits a new sealed unit into the existing frame. This is the standard repair for misted, condensation-filled, or cracked double glazing.
Can I get same-day glass replacement in Bexhill-on-Sea? +
Same-day glass replacement is often possible in Bexhill-on-Sea for standard single-pane windows where the glazier carries common glass sizes on the van. Double glazing units, toughened glass, and non-standard sizes usually need to be ordered from a supplier, which takes 24 to 48 hours. Your glazier will board up the window in the meantime to keep your property secure.