What Homeowners St. Charles Homeowners Need to Know
When severe weather hits St. Charles, MO, broken windows are often one of the first problems homeowners face. This area is no stranger to strong thunderstorms, hail, and the occasional tornado, all of which can send branches, debris, or even hailstones straight through residential glass. The result? A compromised home, exposed to wind, rain, pests, and potential theft.
If your home’s windows are damaged in a storm, acting fast can prevent further structural issues and keep your family safe. At ServiceMaster of St. Charles, we specialize in emergency storm response and window damage repair. Here’s what every local homeowner should know when the glass breaks.
Assessing the Damage Safely
The first step is ensuring your safety and avoiding additional hazards when dealing with broken windows:
- Wear Shoes and Gloves – Broken glass can scatter far beyond the window frame. Protect your hands and feet before stepping near the affected area.
- Look for Hidden Structural Damage – Storms that break windows may also damage window frames, nearby walls, or roofing. Look for cracks, warping, water damage or water stains.
- Stay Away During the Storm – If winds are still high or debris is falling, stay clear of broken windows. Wait until the area is safe to inspect.
Safety should always come first. Don’t attempt to clean or repair anything until you’re sure the danger has passed.
Temporary Window Protection Tips
Once you’ve assessed the situation and it’s safe to act, securing the window temporarily can help protect your home from additional weather or intrusions until you can get professional help:
- Use Heavy-Duty Plastic or Tarps – Cover the window opening with thick plastic sheeting or a tarp and secure it with duct tape along all edges to prevent drafts and moisture.
- Board It Up – For larger holes, if you’re able to safely access tools and materials, plywood is a reliable temporary fix. Nail or screw it into the surrounding frame.
- Fill Small Cracks – If the window is still mostly intact but has small cracks, use thick towels or folded blankets to block drafts and keep out insects until repairs can be made.
When to Call a Professional for Repair
Not all window damage is a simple fix. In many cases, calling a professional is the smartest, and safest, option:
- Cracked Frames or Bent Tracks – These types of damage compromise the window’s ability to seal properly and may pose security issues.
- Multiple Damaged Windows – Widespread breakage may indicate more extensive damage to your roof or siding that also needs expert assessment.
- Storms Involving Hail or Flying Debris – Documentation is often needed for insurance claims. Professionals like ServiceMaster of St. Charles can assess, photograph, and report the damage for you.
A restoration specialist will not only fix the broken glass but ensure your entire home is secure and safe.
How St. Charles Weather Impacts Window Damage
Living in Missouri means preparing for a variety of severe weather events. Each brings unique risks to your windows:
- High Winds and Flying Debris – Common during thunderstorms and tornadoes, these forces can send objects crashing into your windows with little warning.
- Hailstorms – Hail can shatter glass instantly, especially older single-pane windows.
- Heavy Rain and Flooding – Once a window is breached, rainwater can enter rapidly, soaking walls, flooring, and insulation.
- Humidity and Temperature Swings – Missouri’s climate fluctuates quickly, which can cause seals to crack or fail over time, weakening the window’s structure.
For added protection, many local homeowners are turning to impact-resistant or double-pane windows that offer better insulation and improved durability during storms.
Preventative Measures for the Future
While you can’t control the weather, you can take proactive steps to reduce the risk of window damage:
- Install Storm Shutters – Shutters or pre-cut plywood boards can protect your windows during high-wind events.
- Trim Nearby Trees – Overhanging branches can easily snap during a storm and damage your home.
- Secure Outdoor Furniture – Loose items like patio chairs or grills can become projectiles in strong winds.
- Inspect Seals and Frames Regularly – Catching small issues early can prevent major failures during storms.
Preventive maintenance not only protects your home but may also reduce your insurance premiums over time.
Why Choose ServiceMaster of St. Charles for Storm Repair?
When a storm causes window damage, choosing a trusted, local partner makes all the difference. Here’s why homeowners in St. Charles turn to us:
- We Know Local Storm Patterns – Our team lives and works here. We understand Missouri’s weather and local building codes.
- 24/7 Emergency Response – We’re available anytime a storm hits. Immediate board-up services help protect your home from further damage.
- Full-Service Restoration – From cleanup and repair to reconstruction and insurance support, we handle the entire process from start to finish.
- Insurance Assistance – We work directly with your insurance company and provide detailed documentation for faster claims processing.
With ServiceMaster of St. Charles, you get a repair, and you get peace of mind.
