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How to cover a broken window

Driving screws through the pilot holes into the frame of the window.

Overview

Covering a broken window with a piece of timber is a quick and easy way to make sure your house is secure. It also helps to ensure that you keep the weather out and no one gets hurt by stray shards of glass. This video shows you everything you need to know to keep your window safe until you replace the glass.

Steps

1Measure and cut the plywood cover to size

Measure the outside dimensions of the window frame and mark those onto your plywood. Use a circular saw to cut your plywood to size. Once you have cut the plywood, offer it up to the window to make sure the cover will fit. Then it's ready to install.
Using a pencil to mark the dimensions of the window frame

2Install the cover over the window

Measure the thickness of the window frame and mark that out onto the edges of your plywood cover. Drill a set of pilot holes in the middle of these marks. Place the cover up against the frame and drive screws through the pilot holes into the frame of the window.
Driving screws through the pilot holes into the frame of the window.
Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.