When your phone screen cracks, it’s more than just an eyesore—it can affect your device’s functionality, safety, and long-term value. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know: whether you should keep using a cracked screen, risks to your health and phone, DIY options versus professional repair, phone insurance coverage, and how to decide between fixing or replacing your device.
We’ll also look at cost comparisons, temporary solutions, recycling or selling options, and how to prevent further damage. Drawing from real repair experiences at iRepair Mobiles Basingstoke, this guide provides expert insights to help you make the right decision when your phone screen cracks.
Table of Contents
The First Reaction: What To Do If I’ve Cracked My Phone?
I remember the first time I dropped my phone face down on concrete. That sinking feeling, flipping it over, and seeing a web of cracks across the glass—it’s a moment every smartphone user dreads.
The first step is don’t panic. A cracked phone screen isn’t the end of your device, but the next actions you take matter:
- Assess the damage – Small hairline cracks are different from a smashed screen with broken glass falling out.
- Check the touchscreen – If the touch screen is not working, that’s a sign of deeper display damage.
- Consider safety – Broken glass can cut your fingers, and exposed parts can cause further internal damage.
Is It Dangerous to Continue Using a Cracked Screen?
Many people keep using their phones with a cracked display. I’ve seen customers come in with screens that looked like spiderwebs. While the phone may still function, it’s not always safe.
Risks of using a cracked screen:
| Risk Factor | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Health & Safety | Tiny shards of glass can cause cuts on your fingers. |
| Radiation & Exposure | A cracked screen can expose you to minor electrical leaks. |
| Device Damage | Dust and moisture seep into the cracks, damaging internal parts. |
| Fire Hazard | In rare cases, damaged screens can short-circuit and overheat. |
So yes, continuing to use your phone with a cracked screen is risky and often worsens the problem.
Will My Cracked Screen Get Worse If Untreated?
The short answer is: yes. Even if your phone is working fine today, the cracks usually spread with time. A cracked phone screen flexes every time you put it in your pocket or drop it slightly. Eventually, this can:
- Deteriorate the touchscreen’s accuracy.
- Cause complete blackouts in display areas.
- Lead to full screen replacement rather than a simple glass repair.
Does Phone Insurance Cover a Cracked Screen?
If you have mobile insurance, check your policy. Most providers cover screen damage, but there are usually conditions:
| Insurance Coverage | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Basic Policies | May not cover cosmetic damage or scratches. |
| Comprehensive Plans | Often cover full replacement but require excess charges. |
| Manufacturer Protection | AppleCare, Samsung Care+, etc., cover cracked screen repair with service fees. |
Always review the terms and conditions. Many customers come to us at iRepair Mobiles after finding out their policy doesn’t cover what they expected.
How to Fix a Cracked Screen
There are several options depending on your situation:
1. DIY Quick Fixes (Temporary)
- Applying a screen protector to hold glass in place.
- Using clear tape as a temporary measure.
This only prevents further damage—it doesn’t actually fix the screen.
2. Professional Phone Glass Repair
In most cases, the safest option is a professional repair. At iRepair Mobiles Basingstoke, for example, we replace cracked screens within hours using genuine parts. Skilled technicians ensure the touchscreen, glass, and display are aligned properly.
| Option | Cost | Time | Reliability |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY Fix | Very Low | Immediate | Very Low |
| Local Repair Shop | Affordable | 30–60 mins | High |
| Manufacturer Repair | Expensive | Days–Weeks | High |
Should You Pay for Repair or Just Buy a New Phone?
This is the big question customers ask: is it cheaper to repair a phone or get a new one?
- Repair: A cracked phone screen fix is usually much cheaper than buying new, especially for flagship models like iPhones or Samsung Galaxy devices.
- Replace: If your phone is very old, slow, or already has multiple issues, replacement might be smarter.
| Scenario | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| Phone < 2 Years Old | Repair – cost-effective |
| Phone > 3 Years Old | Consider replacement |
| Multiple Issues | Replacement is better |
Alternative Solutions If You Can’t Repair Immediately
- Use an old cell phone as a backup. Many of us have a spare in a drawer.
- Sell your damaged phone online to fund a new one—platforms like eBay or MusicMagpie accept cracked phones.
- Recycle through reputable services if it’s beyond repair.
My Personal Take as a Repair Expert
Over the years, I’ve seen thousands of cracked screens come into the shop. What always surprises people is how much worse the damage becomes when ignored. I’ve had customers bring in a phone that was cracked for months, and by then the repair cost was double because the LCD and digitizer were damaged too.
That’s why my professional advice is simple: don’t delay screen repair. It saves money, prevents health risks, and keeps your device working smoothly.
Conclusions of – What to Do When Your Phone Screen Cracks
When your phone screen cracks, you have options—from DIY quick fixes and insurance claims to professional phone glass repair or even replacement. The key is acting fast before the problem spreads. For those in Basingstoke, iRepair Mobiles is your trusted shop for cracked phone screen fixes, laptop repairs, and mobile accessories.
