How to fix broken phone screen: A Friendly Guide

We’ve all had that heart-stopping moment. The slow-motion tumble, the sickening crunch of your phone hitting the floor. Before you even dare to look, you’re already bracing for the worst. But don't panic! A cracked screen isn't always a death sentence for your device.

Your First Steps After Dropping Your Phone

So, it happened. You’re now the owner of a phone with a screen that looks more like a spider's web. The good news? This is almost always fixable. The first thing you need to do is a bit of detective work to figure out exactly how bad the damage is.

Taking a few minutes to properly assess the situation can save you a world of hassle and money later on. It’ll stop you from buying the wrong parts or jumping into a repair that’s more trouble than it’s worth.

Distinguishing Between Glass and Display Damage

What looks like one screen is actually a clever sandwich of different layers. On top, you have the toughened glass. Underneath that sits the digitiser (the bit that senses your touch) and then the actual LCD or OLED panel that creates the image. A drop might only damage the top layer, or it could wreck the whole lot.

Here’s a quick way to diagnose what you’re up against:

• Check the Touch Response: Carefully run your finger over every part of the screen. Are there any spots that don’t register your touch? If parts of the screen are unresponsive, or if the touch is completely dead, the digitiser is almost certainly damaged.
• Look for Display Abnormalities: Turn the phone on and look past the cracks. Do you see any strange black splotches, flickering, or coloured lines running down the screen? These are classic signs that the LCD or OLED panel itself has taken a hit.
• Assess the Severity of the Cracks: Are you looking at fine, hairline fractures, or are there deep craters with bits of glass missing? Deeper cracks are more than just a cosmetic issue; they’re an open door for dust and moisture to get inside and cause even more problems.

A common mistake is thinking, "The screen still lights up, so it must just be the glass." But a phone with a broken digitiser is just as useless as one with a dead screen. You have to check everything.

Why Your Diagnosis Matters

Knowing exactly what’s broken is key because it dictates your next move. If it's just the top glass that's cracked, a DIY repair might be on the cards for someone with a bit of confidence and the right tools.

But if the touch is gone or the display is bleeding colours, you’re looking at a much more complicated job that usually involves replacing the entire screen assembly. For many, especially those in and around Redhill and Merstham, this is where a professional repair makes the most sense.

However, if the cost of a professional fix feels a bit steep for an older phone, you have another great option. Instead of letting it gather dust in a drawer, you can sell it for a fair price. Find out what your broken phone is worth by getting a quick, no-obligation quote from our team at EXE—just fill out our simple sales form.

Getting Set Up: Your Pre-Repair Safety and Tools Checklist

Let's be honest, jumping into a phone repair without a plan is a one-way ticket to a bigger headache. Before we even get to the "how-to" of fixing that cracked screen, we need to cover the prep work. Trust us, spending a few minutes on this now can save you from turning a simple screen swap into a full-blown tech disaster.

First things first, and we can't stress this enough: back up your data. Before you touch a single screw, make sure every photo, contact, and message is safely stored somewhere else. A slip of a tool is all it takes to lose everything, and those memories are irreplaceable.

Protecting Your Data and Yourself

Backing up is pretty straightforward these days. If you're on an iPhone, use iCloud or plug it into a computer for an iTunes backup. For Android users, Google Drive is your best bet, though brands like Samsung have their own tools like Smart Switch. It might take a bit of time, but it's a non-negotiable first step.

With your data secure, let's talk about the silent killer of electronics: static electricity. That tiny, invisible spark from your fingertip can permanently fry the delicate components on your phone's main board.

Here’s how to avoid that nightmare scenario:

• Power the phone down completely. Don’t just let the screen go dark; hold that power button and properly shut it down.
• Find a good workspace. A wooden or plastic desk is perfect. Steer clear of carpets and metal surfaces, as they are playgrounds for static.
• Wear an anti-static wrist strap. This is your best friend. It’s a cheap piece of kit that grounds you, preventing any static build-up from zapping your phone's internals.

Think of it like a surgeon scrubbing in before an operation. In the electronics repair world, that anti-static strap is your sterile procedure. It's a simple step that separates a successful repair from a catastrophe.

Gathering the Right Gear for the Job

Trying to use a kitchen knife as a prying tool or the wrong screwdriver is a classic rookie mistake that leads to stripped screws and a mangled phone case. To do this properly, you need the right tools. The good news is you can grab an all-in-one phone repair kit online for a reasonable price, and it's a brilliant investment if you plan on doing more DIY repairs down the line.

If you'd rather piece your kit together yourself, here's a rundown of the essentials you'll need for a screen replacement.

Essential Tools for a DIY Screen Repair

This table breaks down the absolute must-haves for getting into your phone safely and effectively.

Having the proper equipment on hand really is the difference between a smooth, satisfying repair and a frustrating, expensive mess.

Of course, if sourcing tools and taking your phone apart feels a bit daunting, that's completely understandable. If you’d rather have a pro handle it, you can sell your broken devices to us instead. EXE offers a fast, secure buyback service that takes the hassle out of your hands. Just fill out our simple sales form, and we'll handle the rest.

A Practical Walkthrough of a Screen Replacement

Alright, with your tools laid out and your workspace ready, it's time for the main event. Diving into your phone's internals can feel a bit like performing surgery, but it's really just a series of careful, deliberate steps. The most important thing here is patience; rushing is the fastest way to turn a screen repair into a much bigger problem.

While the exact screw locations and cable layouts will vary between an iPhone, a Samsung, or a Google Pixel, the core process is remarkably similar across most modern phones. We'll walk you through the universal steps so you know exactly what to expect.

This quick visual guide sums up the essential prep work you need to do before even thinking about prying anything open.

As you can see, backing up your data, powering down completely, and having your tools handy are the non-negotiable first steps for any successful repair.

Gently Opening the Device

Your first real challenge is getting inside the phone without damaging the case. Most phones today are sealed with a combination of tiny screws (usually flanking the charging port) and a very strong waterproof adhesive that runs along the screen's edge.

This is where your heat gun or hairdryer comes in. Gently apply even heat around the edges of the screen for a minute or two. The goal isn't to melt the phone, just to soften that adhesive so it becomes pliable. Think of it like running a stubborn jar lid under hot water.

Once it's warm, press your suction cup firmly onto the glass near the bottom edge. Pull up gently. You're looking to create a tiny gap between the screen and the frame—just big enough to slide a thin plastic prying tool or guitar pick into.

A common mistake is using too much force. If you feel like you're having to yank on the suction cup, the adhesive simply isn't warm enough. Be patient, apply a bit more heat, and try again. Brute force will only crack the frame or tear a hidden cable.

Carefully slide your prying tool around the perimeter of the phone, slicing through the softened adhesive as you go. Be very mindful of how deep you push the tool, as delicate ribbon cables often sit just inside the edge.

Disconnecting Power and Removing the Old Screen

With the adhesive cut, you can start to open the. Most screens will either hinge open like a book or lift off entirely. But wait! Don't pull the screen all the way off just yet. It's still attached to the motherboard by several very fragile ribbon cables.

Your next step is the most critical one for safety: disconnecting the battery. You'll usually find the battery connector hidden under a small metal bracket held in by a few screws. Remove those screws, lift the bracket off, and then use a plastic spudger to gently pop the battery connector off the board. This completely de-energises the phone and prevents any accidental short circuits.

Now you can focus on the screen's ribbon cables. Like the battery, these are often secured under their own little brackets. Remove them carefully, then use your spudger to disconnect each cable. With that, the old screen is finally free. Set it aside.

Preparing for the New Screen

Before you grab the new display, you need to prep the phone's frame. This is a step people often rush, but it's crucial. Use your tweezers and a plastic tool to meticulously scrape away every last trace of the old adhesive and any tiny shards of glass.

A good repair is all about the details, a principle that applies to many DIY fixes, as shown in a practical guide to glasses frame repair at home. A perfectly clean surface is essential for the new screen to sit flush and for the new adhesive to create a strong, lasting seal.

Testing and Sealing Everything Up

Before you permanently seal the phone, you absolutely must test the new screen. Connect the new display's ribbon cables to the motherboard and then temporarily reconnect the battery. Power the phone on and give everything a thorough check.

Here’s a quick test checklist:

• Touch Functionality: Open a notes app and scribble all over the screen. You're looking for any dead spots where your touch doesn't register.
• Brightness and Colour: Slide the brightness control up and down. Look closely for any strange colours or dead pixels.
• 3D Touch/Haptic Touch: If your phone has this, test it to make sure the pressure sensors are working correctly.

Once you’re happy that everything works perfectly, power the phone down. Disconnect the battery first, then the screen. Now you can apply your new adhesive strips or liquid glue to the frame, reconnect the new screen for the final time, and then plug the battery back in.

Carefully screw all the metal brackets back into place. Finally, align the new screen and press it firmly but gently into the frame until you feel it click securely into place. Using a few light clamps or a stack of books can help apply even pressure while the adhesive cures for an hour or so.

If this all sounds like a bit more than you bargained for, that's perfectly okay. For those in Redhill, Merstham, and the surrounding areas, professional help is right around the corner. Our team at EXE can handle this for you quickly and safely. Just get in touch via our contact form for a hassle-free repair.

DIY vs. Professional Repair: Which Is Right for You?

So, you’ve figured out what’s wrong with your phone. Now for the big question: do you roll up your sleeves and fix it yourself, or leave it to the pros? Honestly, there’s no single right answer here. It all comes down to your confidence, your budget, and how much you value your time.

Let’s walk through both options so you can make a call that feels right.

The Allure of the DIY Approach

There's a real satisfaction that comes from fixing something with your own two hands. For most people, the biggest pull is the chance to save a bit of cash. You can often order a replacement screen and a basic tool kit online for much less than a professional would charge.

Beyond the savings, you’re in total control. You get to choose the quality of the parts you use and work on it whenever you have a spare moment. If you're getting into the spirit of home repairs, it's interesting to see how skills can cross over into other areas, like learning how to fix cracked mirrors.

But let's be realistic—the DIY route is not without its pitfalls. Modern phones are tiny, intricate puzzles.

• Risk of More Damage: It’s frighteningly easy for one slip of a tool to nick an essential ribbon cable. That can turn a straightforward screen replacement into a much more serious—and expensive—motherboard problem.
• Warranty Worries: If your phone is still under warranty, popping it open yourself is the quickest way to void it. No exceptions.
• No Guarantees: If that new screen you bought online arrives faulty, or if you make a mistake during the fitting, you’re on your own. There’s no one to call for a do-over.

The Case for Professional Repair

Going to a professional is really about buying peace of mind. When you hand your phone over to a trusted repair shop, you’re not just paying for a new screen; you're paying for experience, the right tools, and a guarantee that the job will be done properly.

A good technician has done this exact repair hundreds, if not thousands, of times. They have professional-grade equipment and know how to handle the little things that can go wrong. They see the tricky models and the common failure points every single day.

The real value in a professional service isn't just the fix itself—it's the assurance that comes with it. You walk away with a warranty on both the parts and the labour, and you don't have to spend your weekend squinting at microscopic screws.

Of course, the main thing to consider here is the cost. In the UK, a cracked screen is the number one reason for smartphone damage, making up a massive 36% of all repair incidents. The price for a professional fix can vary wildly, from around £60 for an older model to over £480 for the latest flagship phones. It's no wonder that these high costs lead a staggering 61% of owners to either live with the damage or just upgrade their device.

So, How Do You Decide?

Still on the fence? Let's boil it down.

You should probably go the DIY route if:

• You're patient, technically confident, and enjoy a challenge.
• Your phone is older and out of warranty, so the financial risk is fairly low.
• You've watched a few detailed video guides for your exact model and feel like you know what you’re getting into.

It's better to find a professional if:

• You have a new, expensive phone that might still be under warranty.
• You rely on your phone for work and need it back quickly, with a guarantee.
• The thought of handling tiny, delicate components makes you break out in a cold sweat.

Ultimately, you have to weigh the potential cost savings against the risk and the value of your own time.

And if neither of these options sounds right—maybe the repair just costs more than the phone is worth—there's a brilliant third option. Instead of fixing it, you can sell it. Get a fast, fair, and no-obligation quote for your broken phone by filling out our simple sales form.

A Smart Alternative: Selling Your Broken Phone

So, you've crunched the numbers, weighed up the hassle, and realised that fixing your phone screen just doesn't make sense. Maybe the repair costs almost as much as a new phone, or perhaps the device is a bit old and you were already eyeing an upgrade. It happens.

The question is, what now? Don't just chuck it in a drawer to be forgotten. That broken phone still has value, and there's a brilliant way to get cash for it without any of the repair headaches. You can sell it directly to us at EXE.

Why Selling Your Broken Phone Makes Sense

Honestly, pouring money into a failing device can feel like a losing battle. A pricey screen repair on an older model might just be a sticking plaster before the next thing gives out. Selling it as-is lets you instantly get some of that value back—money you can put straight towards a new phone.

It's also just... easier. Forget about ordering the right parts, the nerve-wracking risk of a DIY repair going sideways, or even trekking to a repair shop. Our buyback programme is designed to be as straightforward and secure as possible.

Selling your broken phone isn't admitting defeat; it's a strategic move. You're converting a liability—a broken device—into an asset—cash for your next purchase.

How Our Simple Buyback Process Works

We've worked hard to make selling your tech completely painless, especially for our neighbours in Redhill, Merstham, and the surrounding towns. The whole thing is built around being quick, clear, and convenient.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Get Your Instant Quote: First things first, let's see what your phone is worth. Jump on our website and fill out the quick and easy sales form. Be upfront about the damage, and we'll give you a fair, no-strings-attached quote in moments.
• Arrange a Hassle-Free Collection: Like the offer? Great. We’ll sort out the logistics. If you're local, we can arrange to collect it at a time that suits you. Alternatively, you're always welcome to drop it off at our base in Redhill.
• Receive Your Payment Fast: Once we get the device, we'll do a quick check to make sure it matches the description. Then, we pay you immediately via bank transfer. No waiting for cheques to clear or payments to process.

Your Data Security and the Environment

We get it—your phone holds your life. That's why data security is at the very top of our list. Every single device that comes through our doors undergoes a rigorous, GDPR-compliant data wipe before anything else happens. You can rest easy knowing your personal information is professionally and permanently gone.

On top of that, selling your broken phone is a fantastic move for the planet. A phone with a cracked screen often has plenty of perfectly good components inside. We salvage and refurbish whatever we can and responsibly recycle the rest, keeping valuable materials out of landfill. It’s the smart, sustainable choice.

Ready to see what your broken device could be worth? Don't let that cracked screen be the end of its story. Get your free quote today by filling out our online sales form and turn that broken tech into cash.

Got Questions About Phone Screen Repair? We’ve Got Answers.

When your phone screen shatters, it's easy to feel a bit lost. A dozen questions probably pop into your head at once. Here in our Redhill shop, we’ve heard every single one from customers all over the area, from Merstham right through to Reigate. To clear things up, here are some straight-talking answers to the questions we get asked most.

How Long Does a Professional Screen Repair Actually Take?

This is nearly always the first question, and the answer is usually better than people expect. For most of the popular models out there—think iPhones and Samsung Galaxy devices—our technicians can typically have a new screen fitted and your phone ready to go within an hour or two.

Sometimes, if it's a straightforward job, we can get it done in as little as 30-45 minutes. The biggest factor is simply having the correct replacement screen in stock. It’s always worth giving your local repair shop a quick ring beforehand to check they have the part and book a time. That’s the secret to a super-fast turnaround.

Will a New Screen Ruin My Phone's Water Resistance?

That's a brilliant and really important question. When a phone is built, it's sealed in a controlled factory environment with specialised adhesives to earn that water-resistance rating. The second that phone is opened for a repair, that original factory seal is compromised.

A good repair shop will always apply fresh adhesive seals to get it as protected as possible. However, it's vital to know that the phone is unlikely to be as water-resistant as it was straight out of the box. We always tell our customers to be extra cautious around liquids after any repair has been done.

Is It Really Worth Fixing the Screen on an Older Phone?

This one is all about weighing up the costs. Put simply: does the price of the repair come close to what the phone is actually worth? If your phone is only a couple of years old and still does everything you need it to, a new screen is a fantastic investment that can give it a whole new lease of life.

On the other hand, if you’re holding onto a much older model, you might find that the cost of a quality screen replacement feels a bit too high compared to the phone's remaining value. In that case, selling the broken device could be the smarter financial decision. You can find out exactly what your old phone is worth by getting an instant quote using our sales form; it's the perfect way to help you make the call.

Can’t You Just Replace the Glass and Not the Whole Screen?

This is a very common source of confusion. On pretty much every modern smartphone, the top layer of glass, the touch sensor (the digitiser), and the actual display panel (the LCD or OLED) are all bonded together in the factory as one single, fused unit.

While a handful of specialist labs have the advanced equipment to attempt separating these layers, it’s a seriously complex and risky process. For virtually every real-world repair, replacing the entire screen assembly is the only reliable way to ensure a perfect, long-lasting fix. This is how we guarantee you won't have problems with dust trapped under the glass, dead touch spots, or strange colours later on.

Still mulling it over, or decided a repair isn’t for you? The team at EXE is here to help. We make it incredibly simple to turn that broken tech into cash. Get a fast, fair quote for your device by filling out our secure sales form today.