Cracked iPhone screens are a common issue, but don’t panic just yet! If you’ve noticed a small crack on your iPhone 14 and want to prevent it from getting worse, there’s a straightforward fix you can try. By following a few simple steps, you can stabilize the crack and keep your screen intact until you can get a professional repair.
After completing the action, your iPhone 14’s screen crack will be less likely to spread. This temporary fix can save you from the hassle of dealing with a fully shattered screen and potentially expensive repairs. Keep in mind that this is not a permanent solution, and you should still plan to get your screen replaced by a professional as soon as possible.
Step by Step Tutorial to Stop a Crack on the iPhone 14 From Spreading
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand that the following tutorial is a temporary fix. It’s meant to prevent further damage to your iPhone 14’s screen until you can visit a repair shop. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Clean the Screen
Start by cleaning the screen with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any dust or debris.
Cleaning the screen ensures that you have a clear view of the crack and that nothing will interfere with the adhesive you’ll apply in the following steps. Be gentle to avoid making the crack worse.
Step 2: Apply Clear Nail Polish
Carefully apply a small amount of clear nail polish over the crack on your iPhone 14.
The clear nail polish acts as a temporary sealant, filling in the crack and preventing air and moisture from getting in, which can cause the crack to spread. Be sure not to use too much, as it can affect the touchscreen’s sensitivity.
Step 3: Let it Dry
Give the nail polish enough time to dry completely. This usually takes about an hour.
Patience is key during this step. If you use your iPhone 14 before the nail polish is dry, you risk smudging the polish and making the crack worse.
Step 4: Apply a Screen Protector
Once the nail polish is dry, place a screen protector over your iPhone 14’s screen.
Adding a screen protector provides an extra layer of defense, distributing the pressure from your touches more evenly across the screen and helping to keep the crack from spreading. Choose a high-quality tempered glass screen protector for the best results.
Tips to Prevent a Crack on the iPhone 14 From Spreading
- Always keep your iPhone 14 in a protective case to cushion it from falls and prevent cracks in the first place.
- Avoid exposing your iPhone to extreme temperatures, as this can cause the glass to expand or contract and lead to the crack spreading.
- If you notice a crack, try to minimize the use of your iPhone 14 until you can apply the above steps or get it professionally repaired.
- Don’t attempt to press or manipulate the crack, as this can cause it to spread further.
- Consider investing in AppleCare+ or another insurance plan for your iPhone 14 to cover the costs of screen repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use super glue instead of nail polish?
No, super glue is not recommended as it can cloud the screen and damage the touch sensitivity. Stick to clear nail polish designed for use on nails.
Super glue is too strong and can permanently damage your iPhone 14’s screen. It’s also more difficult to remove than nail polish if you need a professional repair.
How long will this fix last?
The fix is temporary and can last from a few days to several weeks, depending on how well you avoid further stress on the screen.
The longevity of the fix largely depends on how the iPhone 14 is used after the nail polish is applied. Gentler use can extend the time before needing a professional repair.
Will the nail polish affect the touchscreen?
If applied correctly, in a thin layer, it should not affect the touchscreen’s sensitivity.
However, if too much nail polish is used, or if it’s applied unevenly, it can interfere with the screen’s responsiveness. Keep the application light and even.
Can I still use my iPhone 14 while the nail polish is drying?
It’s best to wait until the nail polish is completely dry before using your iPhone 14 again.
Using the phone too soon can cause smudging, and the pressure of your touches may disturb the sealant before it sets, rendering it ineffective.
Should I still get the screen repaired if the crack doesn’t spread?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to get the screen repaired by a professional to restore the full functionality and appearance of your iPhone 14.
The nail polish fix is only temporary, and a cracked screen can lead to other issues, like moisture getting inside your phone or the touchscreen malfunctioning.
Summary
- Clean the screen of your iPhone 14.
- Carefully apply clear nail polish over the crack.
- Allow the nail polish to dry completely.
- Place a screen protector on your iPhone 14.
Conclusion
Dealing with a cracked screen on your iPhone 14 can be a stressful experience, but with a bit of know-how, you can prevent the crack from spreading and buy yourself some time before heading to the repair shop. Remember, the nail polish trick is a temporary solution; it’s like putting a bandage on a wound. It doesn’t heal the damage, but it keeps it from getting worse. Also, don’t forget that taking proactive steps to protect your iPhone, like using a sturdy case and screen protector, can save you from the headache of dealing with cracks in the first place.
If you’re ever in doubt or the crack seems too severe, it’s best to consult with a professional to ensure your iPhone 14 gets the proper care it needs. So, next time you face the dreaded spiderweb on your screen, don’t despair—there’s a quick fix to stop a crack on the iPhone 14 from spreading.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.