10 Unexpected Boarding Up Windows And Doors Tips
Boarding Up Windows and Doors Before a Storm Hits
Boarding up your doors and windows before an event can give you the protection you need against damage. You'll require several items to accomplish this.
Find the height and width of the window, including the frame (not the trim or masonry surrounding the window). Note these measurements down to ensure that you don't lose them.
Preparation
It is best to board up your windows and doors before a storm or natural disaster. This will prevent property damage and reduce the loss of life. It takes a lot of planning to build a board around windows. You will need to purchase and measure plywood boards and you should know the specific dimensions of each window. It also takes time to cut the boards and install them properly. The process can be simplified by beginning the preparations immediately you hear of the possibility of a storm affecting your area. If you do this, you can stay clear of a stressful last minute rush and make the process much simpler for you and your employees.
Begin by listening to weather forecasters and observing the guidelines of your local government. The earlier you start the process the better, as it allows you plenty of time to collect and store the needed materials without feeling strained by a rapidly approaching storm. Depending on the severity of the pending storm, you might require huge quantities of plywood to cover all your windows. To ensure you get the correct size, use a tape measure to determine the width and height of each window opening. Make sure to take into account the trim or framing surrounding each window as well as any extended sills if applicable.
Divide the total width and height of your window by two to determine the amount of plywood sheets you'll need. For instance, if the width of your window is 16 inches, the thickness of each sheet should be 8 inches. If you have a wood exterior, drill pilot holes in the plywood sheet to align with the window frame beneath to reduce splitting when screwing in the screws.
If the window opening is greater than the size of a single sheet of plywood can handle, cut two separate sheets that are each half the size of the intended window and set them side-byside on the wall. Cut a 2 by 4 inches (5.1 10.2 cm) 10.2 cm) of lumber to the length of the connecting edge between the two sheets of plywood and place it on the top of the seam. Then then, drive 2.25 in (5.7 cm) screws through the bracing and into the plywood sheet to join them.
Materials
To ensure safety and security For your safety and security, only use materials that are strong and will not break or splinter in strong winds. Plywood is a popular material used to encase windows. It is easy to use, inexpensive and easily available. Select plywood that is exterior grade (CDX), as it is more durable and contain fewer warps and knots. A more durable alternative is storm shutters, also known as hurricane shutters, which are put up over existing windows to provide greater protection against shattered glass and weather conditions that can be severe.
Once you've determined the location of the window openings, you can determine the height and width to determine the amount of plywood you will require. Then make use of the power drill to drill pilot holes in the plywood sheets at 2-inch intervals around each window. Mark the studs on the wall before attaching the plywood to ensure that the boards are securely fastened. If you have wood siding on your home, look for nailheads to determine stud locations. You can also use a drill to find the studs' locations. The screws should be driven into the framing, not into the sheathing or trim. A plywood panel that is attached to these materials may cause a safety risk in the event of high winds.
If the size of your window is too big for a single sheet plywood, cut two pieces which are each half the size you need and join them together with 2 by 4 inch lumber. Label each plywood sheet to let you know which window it will cover.
Make sure you use corrosion-resistant screws that are long enough to penetrate the sheathing as well as the studs to secure the plywood panels to the wall. Make sure to insert the screws into the studs such that they are about half as deep as the thickness of the plywood, however, be cautious not to go too deep and harm the underlying structure of your home.
You should also consider installing polycarbonate security glass like DefenseLite on your windows that are primary. These transparent shields are bonded to existing glazing to safeguard your windows and doors and are virtually indestructible, preventing criminals from breaking in.
Installation
If you reside or plan to move to a region susceptible to hurricanes and you are worried about the threat of storms you should consider boarding up all your doors and windows. This project can be completed quickly and effectively but only if take the time to measure and cut your plywood before the storm arrives.
You'll need additional tools, including drills, saws (or a hammer with nails if you do not have the power tool) and the level, gloves and safety glasses. It's also a good idea to allow the plywood to be coated with sealant in order to make it waterproof.
Begin by measuring the height and width of each window opening, then cutting your plywood sheets to ensure they can fit inside the frames, with a 4-inch overlap on all sides. It's best to do this on site, since it allows you to control the precise dimensions of the plywood.
Cut the boards to the size you want using a track or circular saw. After installation it is necessary to sand down all of them. Once your boards are in place, screw the 3-inch stainless hanger screws made of steel into the framing posts around each window. Use washers on each bolt and wings nuts to secure them. Make sure that each screw gets through the studs by at least 2 inches to ensure the board is strong enough to withstand high winds.
If you're building with concrete blocks, you can join the plywood with pan head screws that are galvanized and which are driven into the edges of the panels to masonry or cinder block. It is also necessary to drill pilot holes in the masonry and then screw corrosion-resistant screws into the holes. It's a job that could take as long as three hours for each window, so it's crucial to begin the process immediately after you hear that a hurricane watch has been issued. This will give you plenty of time to finish the job before the storm arrives.
Maintenance
If you're a homeowner, or business owner, it is essential to have the necessary supplies to put up a board around windows and doors ahead of a severe storm. This will allow you to avoid costly repairs and protect your home from further damage that could be caused by wind, rain flying objects, and other factors.
The appropriate materials can make boarding up easier and quicker. It is essential to precisely measure the windows. This will ensure that the plywood or OSB fits snugly and won't be able to come off easily. If you're using plywood, make sure you use exterior grade sheets, and consider adding a protective finish.
Mark the places where the screws are going to be placed into the board after you have measured the plywood or OSB. Then, you can use a drill to drill holes into the plywood at intervals of 12 inches. This will allow you to safely fix the boards using hanger bolts during an emergency or in the event of a disaster. After the storm is over and the local authorities have given the all-clear, take out the bolts, but save them in case of emergency.
The next step is to place the plywood panels on top of the windows. Be prepared to work in pairs. If you're using wood, make sure you sand the edges so they are smooth and won't scratch paint or trim. Then use corrosion-resistant screws to join the plywood with the pilot holes. If your home has shingles made of vinyl it, nail the plywood directly to the shingles and not to the wood framing.
A window that has been boarded up may be used to stop burglars. Burglars are more likely to target a property that has a broken window or one that's not locked. leatherhead boarding up to enter the store that has been fenced off than one without. If you're a retail business owner, this is a matter you should take seriously.