Why Boarding Up a Window Is a Good Idea
If you reside in a region that is susceptible to severe weather, boarding up your doors and windows will minimize the damage caused by high winds and debris from projectiles. This could save you money in the long run on expensive window replacement and repair costs.
Begin by taking measurements of the height and width of each window frame. Ensure that you include the framing (not only the sheathing or trim). Note stud positions to ensure the proper board attachment.
Safety
Boarding up windows protects property from vandalism and natural disasters, such as hurricanes, tornadoes and earthquakes, and wildfires. This can also cut down on the necessity for window replacement or repair following these incidents. However, boarding up a building requires the purchase and preparation of large quantities of plywood boards. This can be a difficult task to accomplish quickly when the need arises, especially in the event of an emergency or civil unrest. A poorly-constructed board-up that is put up at the last minute could make your home or business vulnerable and may cause further damage.
The likelihood of burglaries is higher occur when burglars target homes that have broken or smashed glass. Window boarding can deter crime and safeguard valuable items from theft. Boarding can also be useful in home renovations where construction tools and materials could be the windows with a risk.
Begin by measuring the width and the height of each window opening. Add at minimum one inch to each dimension. This will help to protect against wind damage. Once the dimensions are determined then cut the plywood sheet using the saw. When cutting the plywood, make sure to wear safety goggles and gloves to avoid injury. Next, identify and mark the locations of studs for proper board attachment. If you can then look for nailheads within the siding that indicate stud locations. If none are available, use a drill and a bit to probe the wall for studs. Once the studs have been located, screw through the plywood and into the framing, putting the screws at least 2 inches into the wood to ensure a solid anchor and prevent splitting.
The procedure for the masonry home is a little different. Instead of fixing the plywood directly onto the masonry, insert the panel into the window frame and secure it using four inch barrel bolts that are spaced not more than 16 inches apart. The shaft of the bolt must be able to fit into the hole into the masonry. Use corrosion-resistant screws to prevent the metal from corroding while drilling into the masonry.
Damage Prevention
A window that is damaged by a storm is not just a way to provide a sense of security, but also helps to prevent further property damage. This is particularly important for businesses that must remain open during a storm or other natural disasters, since windows that are damaged leave the interior vulnerable to environmental debris, leaks and robbery. A professional service for board up will quickly and cost-effectively protect your commercial storefronts and properties from the risk of further damage.
Broken windows can also be an issue in an environment that is residential. Leaving an open window unattended could allow burglars to gain entry and steal valuable belongings or cause additional damage to the structure which can result in further loss of property and raise your insurance premiums. A professional board-up service will safeguard your home from unauthorized entry, and keep your possessions safe while you are away.
Once the emergency service of board-up is complete it is crucial to note that you may also employ an expert to repair and replace damaged windows quickly and affordably. This way, you'll be able to minimize your liability risk and get back to your normal life sooner.
If you plan to do the job yourself, an experienced repair or handyman can provide the tools and materials needed to complete the task. For instance, using the correct type of plywood is vital to ensure that your windows are shielded from further damage. It is also recommended to drill holes into the plywood panels to allow screws during calm weather. This will make the process much quicker when a storm warning is issued.
It is tempting to use duct-tape to secure the plywood. However, it's better to invest in stainless-steel bolts that will prevent your windows from being blown away during storms with high winds. A handyman can assist you to install these in a calm weather time, so that they will be ready to go when a storm hits. This will save you time and money in the long term.
Temporary Security
In addition to safeguarding your property from weather-related damage, boarding up windows helps to keep out intruders out. This is especially important following the occurrence of a natural disaster or an accident that is serious, such as an explosion or car crash. By immediately boarding your home or office to prevent further damage and shield yourself from responsibility while repairs are done.
For example during a riot or civil unrest criminals could profit from the chaos to infiltrate homes and businesses and steal valuable items. It is easy and effective to board up your property using plywood until the disturbance is calmed.
Window boarding up not just keeps damage from happening, but also provides security and peace of mind for homeowners and businesses. Boarding up your business or home protects you from prying eye and makes it less appealing for burglars. For business owners, boarding up your premises is a crucial security measure that will protect your customers and assets until your commercial glass repair service arrives.
If your property has been damaged by vandalism or an accidental event, you can count EJH to secure your home or business until permanent repairs are completed. We offer emergency boards-up for commercial and residential properties. We also repair roof walls, exterior walls and storefront damage. Contact us for more information or to request an estimate.
Whether you live in hurricane territory or on the edge of a tornado it's essential to have a plan for extreme weather emergencies. Emergency board-ups not only shield your home from further damage but it also serves as a temporary solution until you can have the windows replaced. If you're not sure how to secure your home on your own, you might consider hiring a Tasker to do the job for you. Taskers are equipped with tools and know-how to ensure your home's points of entry remain secure until permanent repair is completed. Airtasker makes it simple to locate the right person for the job. Simply post your task and review the profiles of Taskers.
Save Money
The cost of boarding up windows is significantly less than the costs involved with repairing or replacing broken glass. Additionally, it can aid in preventing water intrusion as well as other costly damage to the structure of your business or home. This can reduce the cost of insurance claims, and also reduce disruptions to the daily routine.
When a storm is forecast, it is important to cover your windows as soon as you can. boarding up a doorway will ensure that you have the plywood needed to cover your windows prior to the storm comes. If you wait too long, the plywood may be out of stock at your local hardware store, and you will need to pay higher prices for it.
Plywood is cheap and readily available, so it is an excellent choice for boarding up your windows. To ensure maximum security you should select the best quality plywood available. Ideally, you should choose 5/8-inch thick exterior-grade plywood or OSB to protect your windows from the force of wind and flying debris.
Before installing the plywood you may need to drill pilots holes in the frame. Make sure you space the pilot holes around the frame. This will stop the wood from splitting as you insert the screw. It is also a good idea to add metal washers to each screw to keep the wood from breaking and weakening.
It is possible to board your own windows but it requires extensive knowledge and experience. It's also a job that is best performed when the weather is calm so you can work quickly and safely.
Consider hiring a professional service to put up the windows near you if you want to speed up the process. These companies can install the plywood and supply the appropriate tools for the job. They will also be able to install the plywood correctly and will also provide other suggestions for protecting your home from the damaging effects of a severe storm.