15 Reasons You Shouldn't Be Ignoring Boarding Up Windows
The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
Boarding up windows is a way to safeguard your home from storm damage. However, it's labor-intensive and must be completed with the assistance of another person.
Before you start the process make sure you measure your windows accurately to ensure that the plywood fits perfectly. Also, make sure that you have a circular saw and power drill to cut the boards.
Seals Windows
Boarding windows is a tried and true method to protect your home in the event of an emergency. It's a simple procedure that only requires a few basic tools and some time, however, it can be very effective.
The purpose of boarding up windows is a primary purpose in order to prevent glass from breaking because of debris during a storm or other severe weather. The boarding is usually made of plywood, and is attached to the window frame by screw or nail. Other materials, such as zip ties or duct tape, can be used to board windows. However, plywood is inexpensive and easy to use which makes it an extremely popular option.
To begin the boarding process, measure the height and width of each window. Make use of this information to cut a sheet of 5/8-inch thickness exterior-grade plywood or oriented string board (OSB). Make sure that the dimensions of the plywood match the dimensions of the window frame and leave 1 inch of space There should be a four inch gap between the edge of the plywood and window frame in order to allow for expansion.
After the plywood has been cut to size After the plywood has been cut, screw in the hanger bolts with nuts. These bolts are available in the majority of hardware stores as well as home improvement centers. They are designed to connect directly to the studs on the house. The plywood holes should be drilled to a diameter that is equal to the hanger bolts and set apart by at least 2 inches on all sides. When the storm has passed and the plywood has been removed and the hanger bolts are removed, they can be unscrewed and removed from the studs of the house.
Once a hurricane warning is issued, it's important to begin boarding up your home as soon as possible. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to safeguard your home and give you the chance to spot any issues before the storm hits. The entire process should only take a couple of minutes to complete per window.
Preventing Break-Ins
One of the primary reasons that property owners choose to the practice of boarding up windows is that it serves as a deterrent for burglars. Burglars tend to target properties that they know they can break into, and if they see that a house has been boarded up, they'll be more cautious about trying to enter it. The windows that are boarded up prevent burglars from having access to the house. This is a crucial security advantage.
A great way to safeguard your the property is to board up windows. If you live in an area that is susceptible to severe weather, board up windows to shield your home. By covering windows with plywood snow, rain, and other debris won't get in, which can save you lots of money on expensive repairs and replacements.
It is important to select the right materials when choosing what to use for the boarding of your windows. The exterior grade plywood is typically the best choice, since it is durable against the elements. You will need drills for drilling holes into the plywood, along with screws caulk, putty or caulk for sealing the holes. Make sure you take measurements of the window openings prior to when you begin and mark where screws will be placed. You should also note which plywood panel goes with each window or door. Once you have the necessary items, it's time to start boarding up your windows.
While boarding windows can prevent burglaries, this technique is not foolproof. Even though the boarding is difficult to install, it's possible that burglars will find ways around it. If you only rely on the boarding of your windows, you could overlook other security measures that could protect your property.
One of the most effective methods to deter burglaries is installing security fencing. This is a great option for vacant properties and could be an ideal complement to boarding your windows. However, this solution is not suitable for commercial or residential buildings that want to maintain a level of curb appeal.
Reduces Heat Loss
The act of boarding up your windows will not only protect your home from burglars, but it can also cut down on the amount of heat that escapes from your windows. Inefficient window glass is responsible for around two-thirds of the loss of heat in homes or buildings. This happens because of a combination of convection, radiation and conduction. Radiation occurs when warm window glass is in contact with cold air, which causes it to radiate heat away. Convection happens when hot air rises, and colder air flows in to replace it. Conduction is the heat that moves through the window frame, which is typically made of metal.
Weather conditions that are severe or vandalism, breaking windows is a frequent issue that many businesses and homeowners have to deal with. The act of boarding up windows hides any rough or jagged edges, and allows you to keep your business open until the window is repaired. This is particularly important for commercial spaces which are susceptible to theft by thieves who do not want to be observed through windows.
There are several alternatives to plywood boards for protection against storm damage however they don't offer the same degree of security as a sturdy piece of wood covering a window. For example, roll-down hurricane shutters are popular for insulating homes in storms, but they could cause a safety risk if they aren't securely anchored and require a long time to install and remove. boarding up a doorway repairmywindowsanddoors is to make use of strips of self-stick rubber weather seal that you cut to fit the window's dimensions. The seals can be pressed down to close gaps that let in cold air and allow warm air to escape.
You should consider installing windows that are energy-efficient with low-e coated glass that allows sun's warmth to pass through, while blocking other types of heat transfer. Also, think about a draft stopper which is a basic fabric tube that is placed on the bottom of your window and prevents cold air from entering. These options may be more expensive than a full window replacement, but they'll aid in reducing your energy bills in the long term.
Saves Money
While it may seem expensive to board up windows in an emergency, you will actually save money in the long run. By sealing doors and windows you can cut down on drafts that allow heat to escape from your business or home. As a result, you will see lower energy costs in the winter.
Boards are not expensive and easily accessible, making them a good option for temporary protection against a storm. However, before you make use of them to protect your home, you must be sure to measure each window. Measure horizontally within the trim and vertically between the bottom of the top trim and the sill. Then, add eight inches to the width and height to ensure a perfect fit and allow for expansion in an event like a hurricane. A saw is required to cut the OSB or plywood, and drilling tools are required for mounting. For best results, you should install the boards prior to when a storm is expected and then wait until the weather conditions are safe.
A professional boarding-up company can do the job faster and more efficiently than anyone trying to do it themselves. The professionals will employ hurricane clips instead of nails to attach the boards to the property, which will prevent damage to the frames. After the storm, they'll dismantle all the boards and return your property to its original condition.
A window that is damaged can be a major issue for commercial property owners. It's not just ruining the appearance of your property, but it can also cause burglaries and other security issues. By boarding up windows that are broken, you will stop criminals and potential criminals from entering your property until the window is able to be replaced.
You should also secure any vacant property you own. Properties that are vacant are more likely to be targeted by squatters and are easily targets for arsonists, so this is an important step to ensure that your property is secure until it can be used again.