Keywords: fix phone screen, fix tablet screen, cracked screen repair
Is your phone or tablet screen cracked or broken? Don’t worry! You don’t have to spend a fortune at a repair shop. With a few do-it-yourself strategies, you can salvage your device and save money. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of fixing your cracked or broken phone or tablet screen. From assessing the repair needs to choosing the right tools and techniques, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s get started!
Assess Your Repair Needs
The first step in fixing your cracked or broken phone or tablet screen is to assess the actual damage. Sometimes, what appears to be a cracked screen might just be a damaged screen protector. If you have a plastic bezel covering the front of your device, carefully pry it off to check if the screen underneath is intact. In most cases, the screen will be perfectly fine, and all you need to do is replace the screen protector. This simple fix can save you from the hassle and cost of replacing the entire screen.
However, if the actual screen is cracked or broken, you have a few options to consider. The approach you choose will depend on the extent of the damage and the resources available to you. Let’s explore these options in detail.
Fixing Minor Damage
If your phone or tablet screen has minor scratches, smudges, or cracks, there are a few remedies you can try. These solutions work best for small imperfections and can help improve the appearance of your screen.
1. Oleophobic Coating Kit
One common issue with phone and tablet screens is the buildup of fingerprints and smudges. Over time, these can make the screen look dull and affect its responsiveness. To restore your screen to its original shine, you can apply an oleophobic coating. This oil-repellent coating not only protects the screen but also reduces fingerprints and adds smoothness.
To apply the oleophobic coating, you’ll need the following tools:
- Microfiber cleaning cloths
- Zipper plastic storage bags
- 70 percent isopropyl alcohol
Follow these steps to apply the coating:
- Thoroughly clean the screen with isopropyl alcohol and a microfiber cloth.
- Prepare a wiping finger by wrapping it with plastic wrap or a sandwich bag.
- Apply 10-15 drops of the coating to the screen’s surface or a portion of the screen if it’s large.
- Use your plastic-covered finger to quickly distribute the coating until it evaporates.
- Wipe the screen dry with a clean microfiber cloth and allow the coating to dry for 8-12 hours.
- After the bonding time, remove any residue with a clean microfiber cloth.
- Repeat this process 2-3 times for optimal performance and durability of the coating.
Applying an oleophobic coating can significantly improve the appearance and functionality of your phone or tablet screen. It’s a cost-effective solution that you can easily do at home.
2. Magic Eraser or Pencil Eraser
For small scratches or cracks on your phone or tablet screen, you can try using a magic eraser or a pencil eraser. These household items can help minimize the appearance of imperfections and make your screen look smoother.
To use a magic eraser, moisten a corner of the cleaning pad and gently rub it over the scratches or cracks. The eraser will effectively remove the marks and restore the screen’s clarity.
Similarly, a pencil eraser can also be used to diminish small scratches. Rub the eraser back and forth over the affected area for about 60 seconds, then rub it up and down for another 60 seconds. This technique can help smooth out the surface and make the scratches less noticeable.
While these methods can provide temporary relief for minor damage, they may not be as effective for more severe cracks or broken screens. In such cases, you’ll need to consider other options.
Fixing Cracked Screens
If your phone or tablet screen is fully cracked or broken, you’ll need to explore more robust solutions. Here are two effective methods for addressing cracked screens:
1. Sugru – The Moldable Glue
Sugru is a versatile moldable glue that can be used for a wide range of repairs, including cracked screens. Although it wasn’t specifically designed for phone and tablet repairs, it can serve as a temporary fix for cracks that are spreading from the edges of the screen.
To use Sugru, follow these steps:
- Wipe and clean your screen with a soft cleaning towel, being careful not to pick up any loose glass.
- Use transparent adhesive tape to mark the area to be patched, ensuring that the phone is turned on.
- Apply small quantities of Sugru to the cracked area, gradually adding more as needed.
- Smooth out the Sugru patch thinly and evenly over the crack.
- Allow the Sugru to dry and cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
It’s important to note that while Sugru can temporarily fix cracks that are spreading, it may not provide a long-term solution for extensive damage. Consider this method as a temporary fix until you can arrange for a screen replacement.
2. Screen Replacement
If your phone or tablet screen is extensively cracked or broken, a full-scale screen replacement may be the best option. While this process may seem daunting, it is possible to replace the screen yourself with the right tools and guides.
Before attempting to replace the screen, you’ll need to gather the necessary tools and materials:
- Phone opener pry tool
- Little tweezers
- Torx screwdriver
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Precision screwdriver kit
- Variable hair dryer or heat gun
- Scissors
- Double-sided adhesive tape
- Canned air
- Work gloves
Once you have the tools ready, follow these steps to replace the screen:
- Begin by removing the device’s back cover and main battery.
- Loosen any stuck-on cabling and remove cables if the clasps are exposed.
- Unscrew the screws that hold the motherboard-containing back frame to the LCD-containing chassis.
- Separate the back frame from the chassis by gently pulling them apart.
- Remove any further cable assemblies that have become exposed.
- Unscrew the second batch of screws to separate the LCD-containing chassis from the front frame or bezel and glass assembly.
- Use a heat gun to loosen the adhesive and carefully remove the damaged glass from the bezel or front frame. Take caution to avoid breaking the bezel.
- Attach fresh two-sided tape to areas of the bezel that have lost their stickiness.
- Mount the new digitizer glass to the bezel by firmly pressing it into place.
- Reattach any parts, such as the camera, and reassemble the chassis, frame, and other components in the correct order.
- Double-check all connections and ensure that clasps are securely closed.
- Reinsert the main battery and replace the back cover.
It’s important to note that replacing a phone or tablet screen requires careful attention to detail and precision. If you’re not confident in your abilities, it’s best to seek professional help or consult detailed visual guides and instructions available online.
Final Thoughts
Fixing a cracked or broken phone or tablet screen doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By assessing the repair needs and choosing the right approach, you can save money and salvage your device. Whether it’s a minor scratch or a major crack, there are solutions available for various levels of damage.
Remember to assess the damage accurately before proceeding with any repairs. For minor imperfections, you can try applying an oleophobic coating or using magic erasers or pencil erasers. These methods can help improve the appearance of your screen.
If your screen is extensively cracked or broken, consider temporary solutions like Sugru or opt for a full-scale screen replacement. However, be aware that temporary fixes may not provide a long-term solution, and screen replacements require careful disassembly and reassembly of your device.
While these DIY methods can be cost-effective, it’s essential to approach them with caution and follow instructions carefully. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the repair process, consult a professional or seek guidance from reputable online resources.
With the right tools, techniques, and a little patience, you can restore your phone or tablet screen to its former glory and enjoy using your device once again. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to fix your cracked or broken screen!
