So You've Bought Boarding Up Windows ... Now What?
The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
Protecting your property against damage from storms is achievable with board up windows. It is a difficult task that requires the help of another person. Before you begin the process, measure your windows precisely to ensure that the plywood fits snugly. Make sure you have the circular saw and power drill to cut the boards. Seals Windows It's a tried and true method to protect your home from damage caused by a storm. It's a simple process that only requires a few basic tools and some time but can be very effective. The main purpose of boarding up windows is to create an enveloping physical layer over the glass, which prevents it from breaking from debris in the event of a hurricane or another severe weather event. The boarding is typically constructed of plywood, and it is fixed to the window frame with nails or screws. There are other materials that could be used to cover windows such as duct tape and zip ties, however plywood is cheap and easy to work with and is a great choice. Measure the height and width of each window prior to when you begin the boarding process. Use this information to cut a 5/8-inch thick exterior grade plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). Make sure that the dimensions of the plywood meet the size of the window frame and leave 1 inch of space A gap of 4 inches between the edges of the plywood and the window frame to allow expansion. After cutting the plywood to size, screw it into the desired position using hanger bolts and nuts. These bolts are found in a variety of hardware stores and home improvement centers. They are designed to be attached directly to the studs on the house. The holes in the plywood need to be drilled to match the diameter of the hanger bolts and should be spaced at least 2 inches apart on all sides. When the storm has passed and the plywood is removed, the bolts can be unscrewed from the studs. If a hurricane warning has been issued, it's important to begin boarding up your home as soon possible. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to protect your home and give you the chance to spot any issues before the storm hits. The entire process should take about 30 minutes for each window, and should be performed by two people. Stopping break-ins One of the primary reasons why property owners use boarded up windows is that it serves as a deterrent to burglars. Burglars tend to target homes that they know they can easily access. If they see the property boarding up, they might think twice before attempting to gain entry. The windows that are boarded up also stop burglars from being able inspect the inside of the house as well, which is a major security benefit. The act of boarding up windows is an excellent way to protect your home from the elements. If you live in a region which is susceptible to extreme weather, boarding up windows can prevent damage to your property. By covering windows with plywood, you can stop rain, snow, and other debris from getting inside. This can save you money on costly repairs and replacements. When you are deciding how to encase your windows, it is essential to choose the correct materials. Exterior-grade plywood is usually the best choice, since it can withstand the elements. You will also require drilling tools to create holes in the plywood as well as screws and caulk or putty to seal the holes. Before you begin, be sure to measure the openings in your windows and mark the locations where screws will be. You should also note which plywood panel goes with each window or door. Once you've got all the materials, it's time to affix your windows. While boarding your windows can help stop burglaries, it is not completely secure. It is still possible for burglars to find ways around the boarding, and it's not always easy to install. If you only rely on boarding your windows, you may overlook other security measures which could protect your property. Installing security fencing is one of the most effective methods to stop burglaries. This is a great option for vacant properties and could be an ideal complement to blocking your windows. This method is not suitable for residential or commercial structures that want to keep curb appeal. Reduces Heat Loss In addition to safeguarding your home from burglaries, boarding up windows can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes through your windows. About two-thirds loss from a house or building is due inefficient window glass. Radiation, convection, and conduction are all involved. Radiation is when warm air touches cold window glass, which causes the glass to radiate heat away from your body and the home. Convection occurs when hot air rises before colder air replaces it. Conduction is the way that heat moves through the window frame, which is typically constructed of steel. Windows that break can be a major issue for homeowners and businesses alike, whether it is due to extreme weather or vandalism. Boarding up a window conceals any jagged or rough edges and allows you to keep your business open until the window can be repaired. This is especially crucial for commercial spaces that are prone to theft by thieves who do not want to be seen through the windows. There are a variety of alternatives to plywood for storm damage protection. However, they do not provide the same level of security as a solid piece of wood covering your window. Roll-down hurricane shutters can be used to insulate homes during storms. However, they could pose a safety risk if they are not secure enough and can take a long time to set up and remove. Another alternative is to use strips of self-stick weather sealing that you cut to fit the window's dimensions. Seals can be pressed in the window to close gaps and allow cold air to pass through and warm air to exit. Consider installing energy-efficient windows with low-e coated glass that allows sun's warmth to pass through and block other forms of heat transfer. Also, consider draft stoppers that is a simple fabric tube that sits on the bottom of your window and prevents cold air from getting in. These options are more expensive than a full window replacement, but they can reduce your energy costs over the long haul. Savings on Money While it might be costly to put up a window in an emergency, you'll actually save money in the end. By sealing windows and doors, you can reduce drafts that allow heat to escape from the home or office. You can also expect an improvement in your winter energy bills. boarding up door are readily available and cheap they are a great choice for temporary protection against the ravages of a storm. Before you can use them as protection for your property, you will need to measure every window. Take measurements horizontally within the trim and vertically between the bottom of the top trim and the sill. Add eight inches to the height and width of both to ensure a tight fitting and to allow for expansion in a storm. You will also need a saw to cut the plywood OSB and a drill to facilitate mounting. To get the best results, you must install the boards before the storm is predicted and wait to remove them until the weather conditions are safe. A reputable boarding up business can complete the task faster and more efficiently than someone trying to do it on their own. They employ hurricane clips instead of nails to join the boards to your property, preventing any damage to the frames. After the storm, they will take down the boards and restore your property back 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 can also trigger burglaries and other security issues. The act of boarding up windows that are broken will keep thieves and opportunists away from your property until you can replace it. It is also recommended to secure vacant properties you own. The properties that are vacant are more likely to be targeted by squatters as well as are easy targets for arsonists, so this is an important step to keep your property secure until it is used again.