A cracked or shattered phone screen can throw your whole day off. Whether it slipped from your lap, tumbled off the coffee table, or cracked in your bag, it’s a frustrating and all-too-common problem. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about dealing with a shattered phone screen—from understanding why screens break so easily to practical repair options (DIY and professional), costs involved, myths to avoid, and how to protect your phone from future damage.
As experts at iRepair Mobiles Southend, we’ve helped thousands of customers with cracked screen fixes, phone screen replacements, and broken screen repairs. If you’re searching for “mobile repair near me,” this guide will help you make an informed, cost-effective decision—whether you’re fixing it at home or walking into a shop.
Table of Contents
Why Do Phone Screens Break So Easily?
Phones are smarter than ever—but ironically, more fragile too. Most modern smartphones use high-end glass like Gorilla Glass, designed to resist scratches, but not always drops. The blend of thin glass, compact designs, and edge-to-edge screens creates a sleek, minimal look—at the cost of durability.
From our experience at iRepair Mobiles, the top reasons screens break are:
- Falling out of pockets or laps onto hard surfaces
- Slipping off tables, especially without a protective case
- Impact inside bags, squeezed between books or laptops
- Kids playing with phones (we’ve seen this a lot)
Even a small slip can turn your digital lifeline into a spiderweb of despair. And once those cracks show up, they often spread fast, compromising not just the look but also touch sensitivity and even water resistance.
Ways to Fix a Cracked Phone Screen
There are several repair routes, and your best option depends on the severity of the damage, warranty status, and how quickly you need your phone back.
Comparison Table: Repair Options
| Repair Method | Cost | Time | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer Repair | High (£100+) | 5–10 days | Original parts, warranty safe | Slow, expensive |
| Local Repair Shop | Mid (£60–£120) | 1–2 hours | Fast, affordable, face-to-face | May vary in part quality |
| DIY Screen Replacement | Low (£30–£70) | 1–2 hours | Cheapest, flexible timing | Risky, voids warranty, skill needed |
| Phone Upgrade / Trade-in | Varies | 1–3 days | New phone, warranty included | Costly, might need data transfer |
Can You Fix a Cracked Phone Screen at Home?
Technically, yes. Realistically? That depends on your comfort level with electronics. DIY kits are available on sites like eBay or Amazon, and some even include tools like suction cups, screwdrivers, and antistatic wrist straps. But keep in mind:
- One misplaced screw or wire can damage the entire device.
- Some models, especially iPhones and Samsungs, have complicated internals.
- DIY repairs void your warranty and often compromise water resistance.
- Touch sensitivity might not return to 100% unless the screen is aligned perfectly.
If you’re confident and careful, it can be done—but for most people, it’s safer to consult professionals (like us). Our techs at iRepair Mobiles Southend use anti-static mats, precision tools, and industry-best practices to ensure screens are replaced without damaging the phone’s internals.
DIY Repair Myths You Should Avoid
The internet is full of hacks to “fix” your shattered phone screen. From toothpaste to nail polish, we’ve seen them all—and seen many phones come in worse after trying them.
Popular Myths Debunked
| Hack | Does it Work? | Why It Fails |
|---|---|---|
| Toothpaste | No | Abrasive, may scratch more than it helps |
| Clear Nail Polish | No | Drips into ports, looks messy |
| Eraser | No | Has zero effect on cracks |
| Baking Soda | No | Dangerous near ports, not a filler |
| Liquid Glass | No | Prevents cracks, doesn’t fix them |
If the screen is cracked, you need a replacement, not a quick beauty trick.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Shattered Phone Screen?
Costs depend on the brand, model, and extent of damage. Here’s what we typically charge at iRepair Mobiles Southend:
| Phone Model | Screen Repair Cost (Avg.) |
|---|---|
| iPhone 11 / 12 / 13 | £79 – £120 |
| Samsung Galaxy S Series | £99 – £130 |
| Google Pixel Models | £80 – £110 |
| Budget Android Phones | £50 – £70 |
We always run a free diagnostic check first. Sometimes the touch isn’t working because of a loose connector—not a broken screen—so you don’t pay more than needed.
Should You Use Your Warranty?
If your phone is still under warranty, check the terms before rushing to a repair shop. Some manufacturers like Apple, Google, and Samsung offer certified repair services. But note:
- Accidental damage usually isn’t covered unless you’ve bought extended care (like AppleCare+).
- DIY repairs will void your warranty in most cases.
- Third-party repairs might affect water resistance or future service claims.
If you want your warranty safe, ask your provider if they support certified third-party repairs. We’re an independent repair provider and often guide our customers through warranty-safe routes.
Want Help With Your Cracked Screen Repair?
If you’re in Southend and searching for “mobile repair near me,” you’re welcome to visit our shop anytime. At iRepair Mobiles, we specialize in broken screen repair, fast diagnostics, and screen replacements backed with warranties. You can walk in, get a repair quote in minutes, and have your device working again the same day.
How to Avoid Future Cracks
You’ve gone through this once—let’s make sure it doesn’t happen again. These tips aren’t just generic; they’re based on what we recommend to our customers every day:
- Use a High-Quality Case: Choose one with raised edges to protect the screen when the phone falls face down.
- Apply a Tempered Glass Screen Protector: They absorb impact and are affordable to replace.
- Be Mindful Where You Place Your Phone: Don’t leave it on car seats, laps, or edges of tables.
- Consider Phone Insurance: Plans like Asurion or those from your carrier often cover cracked screens and spills.
Final Thoughts
Cracked screens are a part of modern life, but they don’t have to stay that way. Whether you go the DIY route, opt for a Shattered Phone Screen, Cracked phone screen fix, Phone screen replacement, broken screen repair, mobile repair near me, or trade in your phone, the key is to act quickly. Delaying a repair can cause more issues—from touchscreen failure to further internal damage.
If you’re in or around Southend, our team at iRepair Mobiles is always ready to help. With years of experience, fast service, and genuine advice, we’ll make sure your phone screen looks as good as new—and you won’t break the bank doing it.
