Cracked Your Screen? Here's What to Do Before You Bring It In

A cracked screen is by far the most common repair we handle — and the good news is it's usually one of the fastest and most affordable to fix. But before you rush in (or keep using it), there are a few smart steps to take.

Stop using a badly shattered screen

Beyond the risk of cutting your finger on glass shards, using a cracked screen can let dust and moisture reach the display and digitizer underneath, turning a simple glass repair into a more involved one. If the crack is severe, set the phone down and plan to get it looked at soon.

A small surface crack today can spread into dead pixels, touch failures, or screen bleed tomorrow. Addressing it early keeps the repair simple and cheaper.

Back up your data — just in case

The vast majority of screen repairs don't touch your data at all. Still, it's always smart to back up to iCloud, Google, or your computer before any repair, so you have peace of mind no matter what.

Cover the crack temporarily

If you must keep using the phone until your appointment, a screen protector or even a strip of clear tape over the crack can help hold the glass together and protect your fingers. It's a stopgap, not a fix — but it helps.

What to expect from a professional repair

• A quick inspection to confirm whether it's just the glass or the display underneath.
• Transparent, upfront pricing — no surprises.
• Most phone screens replaced the same day, often while you wait.
• A 30-day warranty on the repair for your protection.

Prevent the next crack

Once your screen is fresh and flawless again, protect your investment with a quality case and a Gator Glass screen protector — just $20 for clear or $30 for privacy, installed free while you wait.

Want a price for your exact model? Check our instant Repair Price Estimator or stop by either location.