A broken window is a security, weather and safety emergency all at once. In Luxembourg, where temperatures can drop below -10°C and burglary risk is real, an unsecured window opening needs to be addressed within hours. Emergency glazing costs €150-400 for a standard pane; temporary boarding adds €50-100.
This guide tells you exactly what to do in the first 30 minutes and how to get professional help fast.
Is It an Emergency?
Immediate action needed
- Ground floor or accessible window: security risk - a burglar can enter within seconds
- Window broken during a break-in: also a police and insurance matter
- Large pane with sharp shards: injury risk to children and pets
- Sub-zero temperatures forecast: risk of burst pipes and structural cold damage
Can wait until morning
- Upper-floor window with no access from outside
- Small crack not affecting the seal (no draughts, glass still in frame)
- Double-glazing inner pane only broken (outer pane still intact)
Step-by-Step Immediate Actions
1. Clear the area
Keep children, pets and bare feet well away from the broken area. Do not attempt to handle large shards with bare hands.
2. Remove loose glass safely
- Wear thick gloves (leather work gloves, not rubber)
- Wearing safety glasses if available
- Remove any loose or hanging pieces from the frame, working from top to bottom
- Place shards in a cardboard box (not a plastic bag) and seal with tape
3. Apply a temporary cover
You need to secure the opening against weather and intruders until the glazier arrives:
Option A - Polythene sheeting and battens (best)
- Cut heavy-duty polythene to overlap the frame by 10-15cm on all sides
- Fix with timber battens screwed into the frame
- This is weather-tight and reasonably secure
Option B - Plywood boarding (most secure)
- Cut plywood or OSB to cover the opening with 5cm overlap
- Screw or nail into the frame surround
- Provides security equivalent to a solid wall
Option C - Heavy-duty bin bags and tape (emergency only)
- Tape overlapping bags across the opening with gaffer tape
- Add a second layer for wind resistance
- Not secure - use only until something better is available
4. Report if it was a break-in
Call the police (113) before cleaning up any glass or touching anything in the affected room. You need a crime reference number for your insurance claim.
Emergency Glazier Costs in Luxembourg (2026)
| Service | Daytime cost | Night / weekend cost |
|---|---|---|
| Single glazing replacement (standard) | €80-180 | €130-280 |
| Double glazing unit replacement | €150-350 | €220-500 |
| Triple glazing unit | €250-500 | €380-700 |
| Temporary boarding only | €50-100 | €80-150 |
| Call-out fee | €60-120 | €100-200 |
| Large or shaped pane (surcharge) | +€50-150 | +€80-200 |
Factors affecting the price
- Pane size: larger panes cost significantly more
- Glass type: standard float glass cheapest; laminated, toughened or fire-rated glass costs more
- Frame condition: a damaged frame adds repair costs
- Access: upper floors or difficult access adds time and cost
- Hour of day: night and weekend surcharges of 40-100%
When to DIY vs Call a Professional
| Task | DIY? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary polythene cover | Yes | Safe and straightforward |
| Plywood boarding | Yes | Basic DIY skills needed |
| Glass removal (small pane) | With care | Wear gloves and eyewear |
| Glazing putty replacement (old frames) | Experienced DIYers | Time-consuming |
| Double or triple glazing unit | No | Sealed units need specialist tools |
| Toughened or laminated glass | No | Must be factory-cut to size |
| Any first-floor or higher replacement | No | Fall risk - use a professional |
What Your Insurance Covers
| Cause of breakage | Typically covered? |
|---|---|
| Accidental breakage (if “bris de glace” clause) | Yes |
| Storm or hail damage | Yes (storm cover) |
| Burglary | Yes (theft/break-in cover) |
| Child playing ball | Often yes (check policy) |
| Manufacturing defect | Warranty claim, not insurance |
Standard excess: €250-500. Report to your insurer within 5 working days and keep all invoices.
The “bris de glace” (glass breakage) guarantee is a common optional add-on to Luxembourg home insurance. If you do not have it, check your policy now - it typically costs €15-40/year and covers all glazing in the property.
Preventing Future Breakage
- Toughened glass (verre trempé): 4-5x stronger than standard float glass; shatters into blunt granules rather than sharp shards. Required by law in certain locations (doors, low-level panels).
- Laminated glass (verre feuilleté): holds together when broken. Excellent for ground-floor and accessible windows.
- Secondary glazing: adds an inner pane over existing windows - improves security and insulation simultaneously.
Find an Emergency Glazier on tack.lu
Over 40 certified glaziers and window specialists are listed on tack.lu across Luxembourg.
View available glaziers in Luxembourg →
FAQ
How do I remove broken glass safely?
Wear thick leather gloves and eye protection. Work top-to-bottom, removing loose pieces first. Place all glass in a sturdy cardboard box - not a plastic bag, which can tear and cause injury. Label the box “broken glass” before disposal.
Can I replace a double-glazing unit myself?
Only if you have experience. Sealed double-glazing units (IGUs) must be factory-manufactured to the exact size of your frame. Incorrect installation voids any warranty and may leave the unit unsecured. For most homeowners, hiring a glazier is safer and not much more expensive.
How quickly can a glazier arrive in Luxembourg?
Emergency glaziers in Luxembourg City typically respond within 1-2 hours. In rural areas (north, east of the country) allow 2-4 hours. Always call at least two companies for availability before committing.
Does insurance cover a window broken by my child?
Usually yes, if you have the “bris de glace” (glass breakage) clause in your home insurance. Check your policy. The excess typically applies (€250-500), so for small panes it may not be worth claiming.
