The Reason Boarding Up Windows And Doors Is Everyone's Desire In 2024
Boarding Up Windows and Doors Before a Storm Hits
In the event of a storm, boarding up your windows and doors will protect you from damage. You'll need a few items to do this.
First, take measurements of the window's height and width, including the framing (not the trim or masonry). Note these measurements so you don't forget.
Preparation
It is recommended to board up your windows and doors before the occurrence of a natural or stormy weather. This will minimize property damage and reduce the chance of dying. Window board-up requires an extensive amount of preparation, like purchasing and measuring plywood boards as well as determining the exact dimensions of each window that needs to be covered. It takes time to cut and put in the boards in a proper manner. Fortunately it is possible to make the process simplified by starting the preparations when you first hear of a storm that could be coming in your area. You can avoid a stressful rush in the last minute and make it easier for you and your staff.
Begin by listening to weather forecasters and following the guidelines laid out by your local government. If you start earlier in the process, you'll be able to gather the materials and keep them in storage without feeling rushed by a storm that is about to hit. Depending on the severity of the pending event, you may require massive quantities of plywood to cover your windows. To ensure you get the right size, make use of a tape measure to determine the height and width of each window opening. Be emergency boarding up braintree consider the framing or trim around each window, as and any sills with extended extensions when applicable.
Divide the width and height of your window by two to determine the amount of plywood sheets that you'll need. For example, if the width of your window is 16 inches the thickness of each sheet should be 8 inches. If your exterior is made of wood, drill pilot holes into the plywood sheet so that they align with the window frame below. This will prevent the possibility of splitting when you screw in the screws.
For a window opening that is bigger than what a sheet of plywood can accommodate, cut two separate sheets that are each half the size of the intended window and set them side-byside on the wall. Cut a piece 2 by 4 inches (5.1 10.2 cm) 10.2 cm) of lumber to the length of the connecting edge between the plywood sheets, and place it on the top of the seam. Then screw 2.25 in (5.7cm) screws into the plywood sheet and through the bracing to join the two together.
Materials
To ensure safety and security For security and safety, boarding windows and doors should be done with only strong materials that will not break under pressure or splinter during high winds. Plywood is a popular material to board up windows. It is easy to use, inexpensive, and readily available. Choose plywood that is exterior grade (CDX) because it is stronger and will have fewer knots and warps. A more durable alternative is storm shutters, also known as hurricane shutters, which are put up over windows already in use to offer more protection from glass breaking and inclement weather.
Once you have identified the location of the window openings, you can take measurements of the height and width to determine the amount of plywood you'll require. Utilize a power drill to make pilot holes into the plywood sheets around each window at intervals of two inches. Before attaching the plywood, determine and mark stud locations on the wall to ensure the boards are fastened securely. If you have wood siding on your property, search for nailheads to determine stud location. If not, you can look for stud positions using your drill. Be sure to insert the screws into the framing and not the sheathing or trim; a plywood panel attached only to these materials may become dangerous in winds that are strong.
If your window is too large for one sheet of plywood, you can cut two pieces of plywood that are half the size and join them with 2 by 4-inch lumber. Label each piece of plywood so you know what window it will cover.
To secure the plywood panels to the wall, use corrosion-resistant screws that are long enough to get through both the sheathing and the studs. To attach the plywood panels to the wall, use corrosion-resistant screws that are long enough to penetrate the sheathing as well as the studs.
You should also consider installing polycarbonate security glass such as DefenseLite on your windows that are primary. These transparent shields are secured to existing glass and shield your windows and door. They are virtually impervious to breakage and can deter burglars from attempting to break into your home.
Installation
If you live in an area that is prone to hurricanes or are planning to move to one the best option is to board up your doors and windows prior to the possibility of a storm is afoot. This task can be completed quickly and efficiently, however only if the plywood panels are measured, cut, and labeled before the storm arrives.
You'll also require a few other tools, such as drills (or a hammer and nails for those who don't own a power drill) as well as tape, a saw, a level, gloves and safety glasses. It's a good idea coat the plywood with sealant and make it waterproof.
Start by measuring the height and width of each window opening, and then cutting the plywood sheets so that they fit inside the frames with a 4-inch overlap on all sides. It is recommended to cut the sheets on-site, as it gives you more control over the exact dimensions of the plywood.
Cut the boards to the size you want using a circular or track saw. Once installed it is necessary to sand down all of them. Once the boards are in place put the 3 inch stainless steel hanger screws into the framing posts around each window. Use washers on each bolt, and wing nuts to ensure they are secured. Be sure that each screw penetrates at least 2 inches into the studs to ensure that the boarding is sturdy enough to withstand the force of high winds.
If you're building with concrete blocks, you can connect the plywood with pan head screws that are galvanized and that are driven into the overlapping edges of the panels to the masonry or cinder block. You'll also need to make pilot holes in the masonry, and then screw corrosion-resistant screws through the holes. It's a project that can take up to three hours for each window, so it's essential to begin the process as soon as you hear that a hurricane warning has been issued. This will give you enough time to complete the task prior to the time when the storm is expected to hit.
Maintenance
You should be prepared to secure your doors and windows prior to an extreme storm. This can save you money on repairs and also protect your home from further damage from rain, wind debris, flying debris, and other elements that can impact the windows.
The right materials will make the boarding up process faster and easier to complete. It is crucial to accurately measure every window. This will ensure that the OSB or plywood is fitted snugly, and that it will not fall off easily. If you are using plywood, be sure you use exterior grade sheets and consider adding a protective finish.
Note the locations where the screws will need to be put into the board after you have measured the plywood or OSB. Then, you can use a drill to drill holes into the plywood at 12-inch intervals. This will allow you to safely fix the boards using hanger bolts in a disaster or emergency situation. After the storm has gone away and you've received all-clear from local authorities, remove the hanger bolts, but keep them in place for any future emergencies.
The next step is to install the plywood panels over the windows. Be prepared to work in pairs. If you're using plywood make sure to sand down the edges so they are smooth and won't scratch paint or trim. Then make use of corrosion-resistant screws join the plywood with the pilot holes. If your home is clad with shingles made of vinyl, it's best to attach the plywood to the shingles instead of the wood framing beneath.
Apart from keeping out the elements of weather and water elements, a boarding up window is also a good way to prevent burglary. Burglars are more likely to target a property with a window that is broken or one that's not secured. Additionally, they are more likely to break into stores with a smashed-up window than one that has no. This is something that retail business owners should take very seriously.