The short answer
How Storms Break Sliding Glass Doors
A sliding glass door is a large pane of tempered glass, which is stronger than regular glass but still vulnerable to impact. During a storm, wind can pick up branches, patio furniture, or loose gravel and hurl them against the door. A direct hit from a heavy object can crack or shatter the glass.
Another risk is sudden pressure changes. When wind blows across the outside of the door, it can create a pressure difference between the outside and inside of your home. If the pressure difference is strong enough, the glass can bow and break. Older doors with worn seals or hairline cracks are more likely to fail.
What to Do Right After the Glass Breaks
If a storm breaks your sliding glass door, keep everyone away from the shattered glass. Large shards can be sharp, and small pieces may scatter far. Put on thick gloves and closed-toe shoes before you touch anything. If you feel unwell from stress or injury, see a doctor promptly.
Cover the opening with a tarp or plywood to keep rain and wind out. This also prevents animals from entering. Then call local water damage pros to assess the situation. They can help with debris removal and emergency storm cleanup to protect your home from further damage.
- Clear the area of people and pets
- Wear gloves and sturdy shoes
- Cover the opening with a tarp or plywood
- Take photos of the damage for your records
- Remove any wet items from the room
- Keep children away until the area is safe
Why Quick Cleanup Matters
Broken glass and rain can create a mess that goes beyond the door itself. Water can soak into carpets, drywall, and wood floors. If left wet, these materials can warp, stain, or grow mold within a day or two. The longer water sits, the more extensive the damage becomes.
The pros can extract standing water and dry out the affected areas. They also remove debris like broken glass and fallen branches. Acting quickly reduces the chance of secondary problems, such as mold growth or structural damage to your home's framing.
What the Pros Usually Do
Local water damage pros typically start by inspecting the broken door and the surrounding area. They check for water intrusion and assess what needs to be dried or removed. Their work often includes extracting water, drying out wet materials, and cleaning up debris.
If the door frame is damaged, door frame repair may be part of the job. The pros can also help with structural drying and dehumidification to remove moisture from walls and floors. They do not replace the glass itself, but they can prepare the area for a glass repair professional.
How to Prevent Future Breakage
You can reduce the risk of a storm breaking your sliding glass door. Install storm shutters or impact-resistant film on the glass. Keep patio furniture, potted plants, and other loose items secured or brought inside before a storm. Trim tree branches that hang near the door.
Check the door's seals and rollers regularly. If you see cracks in the glass or gaps in the frame, have them repaired before the next storm. Severe weather can happen any time, so being prepared is a good habit. Taking these steps can give you more peace of mind.
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Call Now (801) 383-0232Frequently asked questions
Is tempered glass more likely to break in a storm?
Tempered glass is stronger than regular glass, but it can still break under extreme impact or pressure. When it does break, it shatters into small, less dangerous pieces. That makes it safer, but not unbreakable. A direct hit from heavy debris can still crack it.
Can I fix a cracked sliding glass door myself?
A small crack might be temporarily sealed with tape, but it weakens the glass. For a large crack or a broken pane, it is sensible to have a glass professional replace the door. Water damage cleanup and drying should be done by the pros to avoid mold and structural issues.
Will my insurance cover a broken sliding glass door?
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Storm damage is often covered, but you should check your policy for details. Take photos of the damage and contact your insurance company to ask about your specific situation. Some policies have deductibles for storm claims.