If a window has been broken or shattered by a brick, rock or anything else, then of course you will want to call for emergency glass repairs. Having broken glass all over your property and going without a window overnight can be very unsafe, not to mention unsightly. However, there are times when you should call for glass repair even if the window seems intact and hasn't already shattered. Note when this is and why you may need emergency repairs in such cases.

1. Deep scratches

Glass is meant to withstand minor scratches on the surface and, while this might not look very good, it often isn't much of a safety hazard. However, when the glass has been scratched so deep that you can feel the edges of the scratch, this can mean you need immediate glass repair. This type of scratch can actually compromise the strength of the window so that it's more susceptible to shattering during bad weather or if someone should bump it or hit it accidentally. Rather than risk this, have the glass replaced immediately if the scratch is rough or sharp to the touch.

2. Cracks and chips

Some glass might get cracked or chipped and still stay intact; as with a deep scratch, this doesn't mean the glass is safe. This too compromises its overall strength and durability. A small crack can soon become a very large crack that allows the glass to shatter, and a chip can also become much bigger. This can happen even from excessive vibration, so this is something to consider in commercial areas where heavy trucks or construction might cause this vibration that can then shatter the window.

3. Cracked seals or grout

Glass is usually inserted into its frame with a type of sealant or grout to keep it in place. Once this grout becomes very dry and brittle, it might start to shrink up and crack. It may even pull away from the glass or the frame. When this happens, the glass is no longer securely resting inside the frame of the window itself. Bumping it or just the weight of the glass itself might cause it to come out of the frame so that it can land on the floor and shatter or injure someone. The glass might also be easy for an intruder to remove once the grout is compromised. In these cases, have the glass replaced as quickly as possible.