The Ultimate Guide To Boarding Up Windows

The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows

Boarding up windows is one way to protect your property from potential storm damage. But, it's an labor-intensive job and should be accomplished with the help of a third party.

Before beginning the process make sure you measure your windows accurately to ensure that the plywood fits snugly. Make sure you have a circular saw and power drill to cut the boards.

Seals Windows

The practice of boarding up windows is a tried-and-true method for protecting property in the event of a storm. It's an easy process that only requires the use of a few tools and some time, however, it can be very effective.

The main purpose of boarding windows is to create an enveloping physical layer over the glass that prevents it from breaking from debris during a hurricane or other extreme weather event. The boarding is typically constructed of plywood, and is attached to the window frame by nail or screw. Other materials, like zip ties or duct tape, are also a possibility to board windows. However, plywood is inexpensive and easy to work with which makes it a popular choice.

To begin the boarding process, take measurements of the height and width of each window. This information will help you cut a sheet 5/8-inch thick of exterior-grade plywood (OSB) or oriented-strand board. The dimensions of the plywood should be identical to the size of your window frame. Leave a 1 inch gap. A gap of 4 inches between the edges of the plywood and the window frame to allow for expansion.

After the plywood has been cut to size, screw it into the desired position using hanger bolts and nuts. These bolts can be found in a variety of hardware stores and home improvement stores. They are designed to connect directly to the studs that are on the exterior of a home. The holes in the plywood should be drilled to correspond with the diameter of the hanger bolts and should be spaced at 2 inches from all sides. After the storm has ended and the plywood has been removed and the bolts removed, they can be unscrewed from the studs.

When a hurricane warning is issued, it's important to begin the boarding process as soon possible. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to safeguard your home, and also give you the chance to identify any issues before the storm arrives. The whole process should take around 30 minutes per window, and should be completed by two people.

Preventing break-ins

Boarding up windows can be an effective deterrent for burglars. Burglars are attracted to properties they know they can easily access. If they see the property boarded up, they might be hesitant before attempting to gain entry. The windows that are boarded up prevent burglars from being able to view inside the property. This is an important security advantage.

A good way to protect your property is by board up windows. If you live in a region that is susceptible to extreme weather, boarding windows can help to prevent damage to your property. By covering the windows with plywood snow, rain, and other debris won't be able to enter, which could save you lots of money on expensive repairs and replacements.

When you are deciding how to encase your windows, it is crucial to select the appropriate materials. The best choice is exterior grade plywood, which can withstand the elements. You will need drills for drilling holes into the plywood, along with screws caulk or putty for sealing the holes. Before you begin, make sure to measure the openings in your windows and mark where the screws will go. It is also important to note the plywood panel you will need for each door or window. Once you've got all your items, it's time to board up your windows.

While boarding your windows can help to prevent burglaries, it is not 100% secure. Although the boarding is difficult to install, it's possible for burglars to find ways around it. If you only rely on the boarding of your windows, you might overlook other security measures which could safeguard your property.

One of the most effective ways to stop burglaries is installing security fencing. This is a fantastic option for vacant properties and could be an alternative to boarding your windows. This method is not suitable for commercial or residential buildings which want to preserve the curb appeal.

Reduces Heat Loss

In addition to safeguarding your home from burglaries, boarding up windows can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through your windows. Around two-thirds of heat loss from a house or building is due inefficient windows. This is caused by a combination of radiation, convection and conduction. Radiation occurs when warm air comes into contact with cold glass that causes the glass to emit heat away from your body and home. Convection happens when hot air rises, and colder air moves in to replace it. Conduction is the heat that moves through the window frame, which is typically composed of metal.

Weather conditions that are severe or vandalism, breaking windows is a common issue that homeowners and businesses have to deal with. Boarding up a window conceals any jagged or rough edges, and allows you to keep your business open until the window is repaired. This is particularly important for commercial spaces that can be vulnerable to theft by thieves who do not want to be visible through windows.

There are many alternatives to plywood boards for storm damage protection however, they do not offer the same degree of security as a sturdy piece of wood that covers a window. For instance, roll-down hurricane shutters are popular for insulating homes during storms, however they can create a safety hazard when they aren't properly secured and take time to install and remove. Another alternative is to use strips of self-stick weather sealing that you cut to match the window's dimensions. Seals can be put in the window to close gaps and allow cold air to get in and warm air to escape.

You should consider installing windows that are energy-efficient with low-e coated glass that allows the sun's heat to pass through while blocking other forms of heat transfer. Also consider draft stoppers, which is a simple fabric tube that is placed at the bottom of your window, and stops cold air from entering. These alternatives are more expensive than a complete window replacement, but they will lower your energy costs over the long haul.

Savings on Money

Although it might seem costly to put up a window in the event of an emergency, you will actually save money in the end. By securing your doors and windows with boards, you reduce drafts that cause heat to escape from the home or commercial space. In the end you will pay lower energy bills in the wintertime.

Boards are readily accessible and affordable they are a great alternative for temporary protection from an incoming storm. However, before you use them to safeguard your property, you must carefully measure each window. Be sure to measure horizontally inside the trim and vertically from the bottom of the top trim to the sill. Then, add eight inches to the width and height to ensure a perfect fit and allow for expansion in a storm. Also, you will require a saw to cut the plywood OSB, and a drill for mounting. For the best results, you should install the boards before a storm is expected and then wait until the conditions are safe.

A professional boarding-up company will complete the job quicker and more efficiently than someone trying to do it themselves. These professionals will use hurricane clip instead of nails to attach the boards to your property, thus preventing any damage to the frames. After  boarding up tunbridge-wells , they will take down the boards and restore your property to its original condition.

A window that is damaged can be a major issue for commercial property owners. It can not only ruin the appearance of your property, but it can also cause burglaries and other security issues. The act of boarding these windows will stop criminals and other opportunists from gaining access to your property until the window is able to be replaced.

It is also an excellent idea to board up any vacant properties you own. This is crucial to keep your property safe when it is being used.