If a bird accidentally flies into your window you might not think anything of it at first. But birds can do more damage than most people realize. Keep reading to find out what you need to be on the lookout for if a bird hits your window including when you’ll need simple glass repair and when you’ll need a full window replacement.
Why do birds fly into windows? The most common reason that birds fly into windows is because they’re drawn to the reflections. Birds aren’t necessarily able to distinguish between a mirror image and the real thing so they may see a tree reflected in your glass and think that it would be a good place to build a nest or perch for a rest. Assessing the damage First things first, if a bird has flown into your window, you should first check to see if the bird is alright. To ensure the bird gets the care it needs, contact your local bird rescue organization. If there’s no sign of the bird, assess the damage to your window. Here are a few things you’ll need to check for:
Smears: A smear will help you pinpoint the exact location of the collision. Investigate the surrounding area thoroughly and check for any damage near the site.
Cracks: If a bird hits your window with enough force, spider web cracking may radiate out from the site of impact. This type of damage can’t be fixed with simple glass repair and you’ll likely require a full window replacement.
Holes: If a bird is large enough, or flying fast enough, it can create a hole in your window at the site of impact. If this is the case, you’ll need to call for professional glass repair or window replacement as soon as possible to keep your home safe and protect it from exposure to the elements.
Preventing window collisions The best way to prevent future window collisions is to reduce the reflectivity of your glass. There are a few ways you can achieve this:
Hang an object, like an ornament, in the window
Position home furnishings in front of the window
Add a decal or tape to your window
Close your blinds and curtains when the sun is at its peak
Don’t place bird feeders in front of highly-reflective windows
With 19 convenient locations all across North Western Canada, All-West Glass is your source for the sales, installation and repair of glass windows and doors. Whether you need glass repair or complete window replacement, All-West Glass can handle all of your residential, commercial and automobile glass needs. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to request a free quote.