When a break-in, attempted burglary or vandalism leaves your property with a broken window or damaged shopfront, the initial shock can be overwhelming. Security is compromised, glass may be scattered across the floor, and your property is left exposed to weather, theft and further damage. In these urgent situations, knowing whether you need boarding-up or temporary glass makes a significant difference in restoring safety quickly.
London’s fast-paced environment means break-ins and property damage can happen at any time, especially for businesses located on busy high streets or homeowners living in densely populated neighbourhoods. Acting fast with the right emergency glazing solution helps prevent further issues and ensures long-term repairs go smoothly. This guide explains the difference between boarding-up and temporary glass, when each option is appropriate, and what crucial questions to ask your glazier before any work begins.
Why Immediate Security Matters After a Break-In
A broken window is more than just an inconvenience. It represents an urgent security risk. Intruders often return to properties that have already been compromised, especially if the opening has not been properly secured.
Weather exposure is another major concern. Rain, wind and debris can enter the property through the damaged glazing, potentially ruining flooring, furniture or stock.
For businesses in London, an unsecured shopfront can lead to loss of revenue, damaged reputation and increased insurance scrutiny. For homeowners, it can leave families feeling unsafe and unsettled.
Fast action through emergency glazing minimises these risks and stabilises the situation until a permanent repair can be completed.
Boarding Up: When and Why It Is Used
Boarding up is the quickest and most secure method to protect your property immediately after damage occurs. It involves fitting strong, professionally cut boards over the broken area to prevent intruders and weather from causing further harm.
Boarding is ideal when the frame is damaged, the glass cannot be replaced on the same day, or the window is too large for immediate temporary glazing.
A well-executed board-up should be sturdy, weatherproof, visually neat and fixed securely to avoid movement or gaps. It is a short-term but highly reliable solution that allows you to continue daily operations while you wait for glass manufacturing or specialist installation.
Key Advantages of Boarding Up
• Provides the highest level of immediate security
• Prevents unauthorised access, theft and vandalism
• Protects interiors from rain, wind and debris
• Suitable for large commercial shopfronts
• Ideal when the frame is severely damaged
• Allows businesses to remain operational until glass arrives
Insurance companies often expect property owners to secure damaged premises quickly. Boarding up shows evidence that you have taken responsible action to prevent further loss.
Temporary Glass: A Faster Return to Normal
Temporary glass is a short-term glazing solution fitted when the frame is still structurally intact and compatible with a swift installation. It restores visibility, natural light and aesthetics while you wait for the permanent glass to be manufactured.
This option is commonly used in shopfronts where visual appearance is crucial for customer confidence. Temporary glass also helps maintain insulation and keeps the property functional, especially in offices and retail environments.
Benefits of Temporary Glass
• Maintains a clean, professional appearance
• Restores natural light and visibility
• Helps with insulation and noise control
• Allows businesses to trade without interruption
• Ideal when the frame is undamaged and safe for fitting
Although temporary glass is not as robust as a full replacement, it is an excellent bridge solution that allows normal activity to continue.
What to Ask Your Glazier Before They Start Work
During an emergency, it is easy to agree to the first solution offered. However, asking key questions helps ensure you receive the most appropriate, safe and cost-effective service. A reputable London glazier should be able to answer clearly and confidently.
Essential questions include:
• Can you secure the property immediately
• Do you provide both boarding-up and temporary glass options
• How long will the temporary solution last
• Are your materials insurance-approved
• What type of glass will be used as the permanent replacement
• How soon can the replacement glass be installed
• Will you measure and order the glass on the same visit
• Do you charge a fixed or variable call-out fee
Knowing what to expect ensures transparency, avoids hidden costs and gives you confidence that your property is in capable hands.
How Emergency Glaziers Manage Break-In Damage in London
Emergency glazing specialists in London are trained to handle break-ins efficiently and safely. They understand the urgency behind each call-out and carry the tools and materials needed to secure the property immediately.
Their typical process includes:
• Inspecting the damage and assessing risks
• Removing loose or dangerous glass
• Securing the opening with boards or temporary glass
• Measuring the frame for permanent replacement
• Providing a clear timeline for follow-up installation
London’s urban conditions require glaziers to work quickly, often outside business hours, and navigate narrow streets, high footfall and busy high streets to deliver timely service.
Why London-Based Specialists Are Essential
Local knowledge makes a difference in emergency situations. A London-based glazier can:
• Reach your property faster
• Understand borough-specific regulations
• Handle busy high street shopfronts efficiently
• Provide realistic response times based on location
• Return quickly for follow-up installations
Choosing a local specialist ensures a smoother, more reliable process from start to finish.
Planning for Permanent Glazing Replacement
Once the property is secured with boarding or temporary glass, the next step is organising the full replacement. High-quality commercial glass must often be cut to size or custom-made, especially for shopfronts.
During this phase, the glazier will confirm the glass type, thickness, safety rating and design. They will also check the frame for hidden damage before installation.
Planning ahead helps avoid delays and ensures the final installation is durable, safe and perfectly aligned with the look and function of your property.
Summary of Key Insights
• Boarding up offers maximum security for severe damage or broken frames
• Temporary glass is ideal when aesthetics and functionality must be maintained
• London’s busy environment increases the need for fast emergency glazing
• Asking the right questions ensures transparent pricing and reliable service
• Emergency glaziers secure the site, remove debris and prepare for full replacement
• Local specialists provide faster response times and better follow-up
• Permanent glazing requires precise measurements and correct glass selection
Call Us Today
If your property has suffered break-in damage or vandalism, professional support is essential to restore safety and order. Contact Enter Glazing for fast, reliable emergency glazing London services, including secure boarding-up, temporary glass installation and expert full replacements.