20 Resources That Will Make You More Efficient With Boarding Up Windows
The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
Protecting your property against storm damage is possible by making windows a board. It's a daunting task that requires the assistance of another person.
Take measurements of your windows to ensure the plywood will fit snugly. Make sure you have the power drill and circular saw 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 process that only requires some basic tools and a bit of time, but can be very effective.
The main reason to board up windows is to create a physical barrier over the glass, which stops it from breaking from debris during a hurricane or other severe weather event. The boarding is typically constructed of plywood and is attached to the window frame with either a nail or screw. Other materials, such as zip ties or duct tape are also a possibility to board windows. However plywood is cheap and easy to work with which makes it an ideal choice.
Take measurements of the width and height of each window prior to when you begin the boarding procedure. This information will help you cut a 5/8-inch thickness of exterior-grade plywood (OSB) or oriented-strand board. The dimensions of the plywood should match the dimensions of your window frame. Leave a 1 inch gap. There should be a four inch gap between the edge of the plywood and the window frame to allow for expansion.
After the plywood has been cut to size, screw it into the desired position using hanger bolts and nuts. These bolts are designed to attach to the studs in a house, and can be purchased at most hardware stores or home improvement stores. The holes for the plywood must be drilled to a diameter that is equal to the hanger bolts and spaced apart by at least 2 inches on all sides. After the storm has ended and the plywood has been removed, the bolts can be removed from the studs.
Once a hurricane warning is issued, it's important to begin the boarding process as soon as you can. This will allow you to ensure that you have enough plywood to safeguard your home and allow you to find any issues before the storm hits. The entire process should take about 30 minutes per window, and should be completed by two people.
Prevents Break-Ins
The idea of boarding up windows is a great deterrent for burglars. Burglars tend to target properties they know they can easily break into and, if they notice a property has been boarded up, they'll be hesitant to break into it. Boarded up windows also prevent burglars from having the ability to view inside the home as well, which is a major security benefit.
The practice of boarding up windows is an excellent way to protect your property from weather. If you live in a region where there is a high risk of severe weather, board up windows to protect your property. By covering windows with plywood, rain, snow and other debris won't get in, which can save you a significant amount of money on expensive repairs and replacements.
It is important to select the right materials when deciding which window to board. The exterior grade plywood is typically the best choice, since it will hold up against the elements. You will need a drill for drilling holes into the plywood as well as screws, caulk or putty for sealing the holes. Be sure to determine the openings of your windows before you begin and mark the locations where screws will be placed. Also, note the type of plywood that goes with each window or door. Once you've got all the materials, it's time to put up the windows.
While boarding windows can help prevent burglaries, this technique is not foolproof. Although the boarding is difficult to install, it is possible for burglars find a way around it. If you rely solely on blocking your windows, you could overlook other security measures that can protect your home.
One of the most effective ways to deter burglaries is installing security fencing. This is a fantastic option for vacant homes and can be an ideal complement to blocking your windows. However, this method is not a good fit for commercial or residential buildings that wish to keep an appearance.
Reduces Heat Loss
Boarding up your windows will not only protect your home from burglars, but will also help reduce the amount of heat that escapes from your windows. About two-thirds loss from a house or building is due to inefficient windows. This happens through a combination of radiation, convection and conduction. Radiation occurs when warm window glass contacts cold air, which causes it to radiate heat away. Convection happens the process where hot air rises and colder air enters to replace it. Conduction happens when heat passes through a window's frame which is typically constructed of metal.
Windows that break can be a major issue for many businesses and homeowners regardless of whether it's caused by extreme weather or vandalism. Boarding up a window conceals any rough or jagged edges and lets you keep your business open until the window is repaired. This is especially important for commercial spaces that can be vulnerable to robbery by thieves who do not want to be observed through windows.
There are other alternatives to plywood for storm damage protection. However they don't offer the same level security as a solid piece of wood that covers your window. For example, roll-down hurricane shutters are popular for insulating homes in storms, but they can create a safety hazard when they are not properly anchored and take time to put up and take down. Another option is to use strips of self-stick rubber weather seal which you cut to fit the dimensions of your window. The seals can be pressed in place to seal gaps that allow cold air and allow warm air to escape.
Consider installing energy-efficient windows with low-e coatings on glass that allows sun's warmth to pass through, while blocking other types of heat transfer. Consider draft stoppers. This is simply a tube of fabric that sits on the bottom of your windows and prevents the escaping of cold air. These options are more expensive than a full window replacement, but they can reduce your energy costs in the long run.
Savings on Money
While boarding up windows may seem like a costly service to offer in a crisis however, it actually saves money in the long run. By sealing your windows and doors with boards, you can reduce drafts that cause heat to escape from the home or commercial property. In the end you will notice lower energy bills during the winter.
Boards are not expensive and easily accessible which makes them a great choice for temporary protection from the elements. Before you are able to use them as a security for your property you'll need to measure each window. Take measurements 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 snug fit and allow for expansion during an event like a storm. You will also require a saw to cut the plywood or OSB and a drill for mounting. To get the best results, it is recommended to put the boards up before a storm is expected and then leave them in place until the weather conditions are safe.
A professional boarding-up company can complete the task faster and more efficiently than a person trying to do it themselves. boarding up commercial property will use hurricane clip instead of nails to secure the boards to your property, thus preventing any damage to the frames. After the storm, they can remove all the boards and restore your property back to its original condition.
If you are a property owner for a commercial business or manager, a damaged window can be a major issue. It's not just a problem for the appearance of your property, but also lead to thefts and other security concerns. Boarding up the broken windows will keep criminals and other opportunists away from your property until you are able to replace it.
You should also board up any vacant property you own. This is essential to ensure that your property is safe when it is being used.