Notes

7 Helpful Tricks To Making The Most Of Your Boarding Up Windows And Doors
Boarding Up Windows and Doors Before a Storm Hits


Before a storm hits, boarding up your windows and doors provides measurable protection from damage. To do this, you need to have a few things on hand.

Take measurements of the width and height of the window including the frame (not the trim or masonry surrounding the window). Note these measurements so you don't forget.

Preparation

It is recommended to board up your doors and windows before an event like a hurricane or natural disaster. This will prevent property damage and will minimize the loss of life. The process of boarding up windows requires an extensive amount of preparation, including purchasing and measuring plywood boards and determining the exact size of each window to cover. It takes time to cut and put in the boards correctly. The process can be streamlined by beginning the preparations when you learn of an approaching storm. If you do this, you can stay clear of a stressful last minute rush and make the process easier for yourself and your staff.

Start by listening to repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk of the weather and following the guidelines provided by your local government. The earlier you begin the process the better, as it gives you enough time to gather and store the needed items without being pushed by a rapidly approaching storm. Depending on the severity of the event, you may need massive quantities of plywood to cover your windows. Use a tape to measure the height and width for each window opening. Make sure to include the trim or framing around each window, and any ledges that are extended, if appropriate.

Then, determine the size of the plywood sheets you require by dividing the total window width and height by two. For instance, if the width of your window is 16 inches the thickness of each sheet should be 8 inches. If you have wood exterior, drill pilot holes in the plywood sheet that align with the window frame beneath to prevent splitting when you screw into the screws.

For a window opening that is greater than the size of a single 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. Then, cut a piece of 2 by 4 in (5.1 by 10.2 cm) lumber to the length of the connecting edges of the plywood sheets and then place it over the seam. Then screw 2.25 in (5.7cm) screws into the plywood sheet, and then through the bracing to join the two.

Materials

To ensure security and safety for security and safety, boarding up windows and doors should be done using only sturdy materials that won't break under pressure or splinter in high winds. Plywood is a popular material used to encase windows. It is easy to work with, cheap and easily available. It is important to select plywood that is specifically designed for exterior use (CDX) for added strength, and free from knots and warping. Storm shutters or hurricane shutters are more durable options. They can be put in over windows that are already in place and offer better protection against glass breakage and storms.

Once you've determined the location of your window openings then measure the height and width of each to determine how much plywood you'll require. Then make use of a power drill to create pilot holes into the plywood sheets at 2-inch intervals around each window. Before attaching the plywood, you must identify and mark the stud locations on the wall to ensure the boards are anchored securely. If your home has wood siding, look for nailheads that may indicate the location of studs. You could also use your drill to find the stud locations. Be sure to insert the screws into the framing rather than the sheathing or trim. a plywood panel fastened only to these materials could become dangerous in winds that are strong.

If your window is too large for one sheet of plywood, cut two pieces of plywood that are half of the size needed and join them using 2 by 4-inch lumber. Label each piece of plywood to let you know what window it will be covering.

Make sure you use corrosion-resistant screws that are long enough to penetrate the sheathing as well as the studs to attach the plywood panels to your wall. To secure the plywood panels to the wall, use corrosion-resistant screws that are long enough to get through both the sheathing as well as the studs.

In addition to securing your windows, you should install a "No Trespassing" sign on your property and consider installing polycarbonate security glass such as DefenseLite over your windows. These transparent shields are bonded to existing glazing to protect your doors and windows. They are virtually indestructible, preventing criminals from gaining entry.

Installation

If you live in a region prone to hurricanes, or plan to move to one, the best course of action is to secure your doors and windows prior to the threat of a storm approaches. This project can be accomplished quickly and efficiently however only if you make the effort to measure and cut your plywood panels prior to when the storm comes.

You'll need additional tools such as the drill, a saw (or nail-driven hammer for those who don't have an electric tool), a level, gloves, and safety glasses. It's a good idea coat the plywood with sealant and make it waterproof.

Start by taking measurements of the width and height of each window's opening, and then cutting the plywood sheets so that they can fit inside the frames, with a 4-inch overlap on all sides. It is recommended to cut the sheets on site, since it allows you to control the precise 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 set then screw the 3" stainless hanger screws made of steel into the posts that frame each window. Use washers on each bolt and wings nuts to anchor them. Make sure that every screw is inserted at least 2 inches into the studs to ensure that the boarding is strong enough to withstand strong winds.

If you're building using concrete blocks, you can connect the plywood using galvanized pan head screws driven into the overlapping edges of the panels into bricks or cinder blocks. You'll also need to drill pilot holes in the masonry before screwing corrosion-resistant screws into the holes. This project can take anywhere from three to four hours for each window, so it's crucial to begin the process immediately after you hear that a hurricane warning has been issued. This will allow you enough time to complete your project before the storm hits.

Maintenance

You should be prepared to board up your doors and windows prior to a severe storm. This can help you avoid costly repairs and shield your property from further damage resulting from wind, rain debris, flying debris and other elements that can affect windows.

Having the right materials can make the boarding up process faster and easier to complete. It is crucial to precisely measure the windows. This will ensure that the plywood or OSB fits snugly and won't be able to fall off easily. If you are using plywood, make sure you use exterior grade sheets and consider adding a second protective finish.

Mark the locations where screws are to be placed into the board after you have taken measurements of the plywood or OSB. Then, use a drilling machine to pre-drill holes into the plywood at 12-inch intervals. You can then use hanger bolts to secure the boards in an emergency or catastrophe situation. After the storm has passed and you've received the all-clear from authorities in your area, remove the hanger bolts, but keep them in place for future emergency situations.

The next step is to install the plywood panels over the windows. This is a job for two people, so be prepared prior to starting. If you're using plywood, sand the edges to smooth them so they won't scratch paint or trim. Then make use of corrosion-resistant screws attach the plywood using the pilot holes. If your home has shingles made of vinyl it, nail the plywood directly to the shingles and not the wood framing.

A boarded-up window can also be used to stop burglars. Burglars are more likely to take aim at a structure that has a damaged or unlocked window. They are also more likely to break into stores with a smashed-up window than one without. This is something that retail business owners should consider very seriously.

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