Physical & water damage

Spiderweb crack from a corner drop

A corner impact often creates a spreading spiderweb crack even when the rest of the screen looks intact; it will keep spreading with more drops or pressure.

Difficulty
Professional only
Time
1–2 hours at a shop
DIY cost
$15–$40 (case only)
Pro cost
$80–$350

Symptoms

  • Crack radiates outward from one corner
  • Rest of screen still displays and responds to touch
  • Crack lines grow slightly over days or weeks

Likely causes

  • CommonCorner impact concentrated force on a small areaCorners have the least glass support, so cracks start there most often.
  • CommonNo case or a thin case at time of dropCases with raised edges absorb corner impacts and prevent this.

What to do

  1. Apply clear tape over the cracked area to stop shards from lifting and to slow the crack spreading.
  2. Avoid pressing on that corner or setting the phone face-down.
  3. Back up your photos and data soon in case touch response degrades.
  4. Add a shock-absorbing case with raised corners to prevent it from getting worse.
  5. Get the screen replaced before the crack reaches the display's active area and causes dead pixels.

Tools and parts

  • Packing tape
  • Protective case
Replacement screen assemblySearch: “phone screen replacement for your model”
Corner-protective phone caseSearch: “drop-proof case with raised corners for your model”

When to call a pro

See a repair shop before the crack spreads to the display area, which turns a glass-only repair into a full screen replacement.

Safety

Use caution

Glass can flake off the crack edges; avoid rubbing the area with bare fingers.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.