5 Tools That Everyone Involved In Boarding Up Windows Industry Should Be Utilizing
The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
Protecting your property against storm damage is feasible with making windows a board. However, it's a labor-intensive task and must be completed with the assistance of another person.
Take measurements of your windows to ensure that the plywood will fit comfortably. Make sure you have the power drill and circular saw to cut the boards.
Seals Windows
It's a tried-and tested method to shield your property from a storm. It's a fairly simple process that requires only a few tools and a bit of time to complete however, it can be extremely efficient.
The main reason to board up windows is to create a physical barrier over the glass, which prevents it from being damaged by debris during a hurricane or other severe weather event. The boarding is usually made of plywood and is connected to the frame with a nail or screw. There are other materials that can be used to secure windows like duct tape or zip ties, however plywood is affordable and easy to work with, making it an obvious option.
To begin the boarding process, take measurements of the width and height of each window. Utilizing this information, cut a piece of 5/8-inch thick exterior grade plywood or oriented string board (OSB). Make sure the dimensions of the plywood meet the dimensions of the window frame, and leave 1 inch of space There should be a 4 inch gap between the edge of the plywood and window frame to allow 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 designed to attach to the studs in a house and are available at most hardware stores or home improvement centers. The holes in the plywood must be drilled to correspond with the diameter of the hanger bolts, and should be spaced at minimum 2 inches on all sides. When the storm is over and the plywood is removed and the hanger bolts are removed, they can be unscrewed and removed from the studs of the house.
It is important to start the process of boarding up whenever you can once a hurricane watch is issued. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to secure your home, and also give you the chance to spot any issues before the storm hits. The entire process should take approximately 30 minutes for each window, and should be completed by two people.
Preventing Break-Ins
One of the primary reasons why property owners use boarded up windows is that it acts as a deterrent for burglars. Burglars tend to target properties that they know they can break into and, if they notice the property is boarded up, they will be more cautious about trying to break into it. The windows that are boarded up also stop burglars from being able to see inside the house. This is a crucial security benefit.
Boarding up windows is also a good way to protect your home from the elements. If you live in a region that is susceptible to extreme weather, boarding up windows can help to prevent damage to your property. By covering the windows with plywood snow, rain, and other debris cannot get in, which can save you a lot of money on expensive repairs and replacements.
When deciding on how to board up windows, it is crucial to select the appropriate materials. Exterior-grade plywood is usually the best option, as it is durable against the elements. You will require drills for drilling holes in the plywood, as well as screws caulk or putty to seal the holes. Before you begin, be sure to measure the openings in your windows and note where the screws will go. Also, note down the plywood panel you will need for each window or door. Once you have all the items, it's time to start boarding up your windows.
Although boarding up windows can help prevent burglaries, this method isn't foolproof. Although the boarding is difficult to put up, it is possible for burglars find a way around it. If you only rely on the boarding of your windows, you might overlook other security measures which can protect your home.
Installing security fencing is among the best methods to stop burglaries. This is a great option for vacant properties and could be an alternative to the idea of boarding your windows. However, this solution is not a good fit for commercial or residential buildings which want to maintain a level of curb appeal.
Reduces Heat Loss
In addition to protecting your home from burglaries, boarding your windows can cut down on the amount of heat that escapes through your windows. About two-thirds of the heat loss from a home or building is due to the inefficiency of window glass. Convection, radiation, as well as conduction are all involved. Radiation occurs when warm air comes into contact with cold glass that causes the glass to emit heat away from your body and home. Convection occurs when hot air rises before colder air replaces it. Conduction happens when heat flows through a window's frame, which is often constructed of metal.
Windows that break can pose a problem for homeowners and businesses, whether it is due to extreme weather or vandalism. By boarding up a window, you can hide any rough or jagged edges and lets you keep your business open until the window can be repaired. This is particularly crucial for commercial spaces that are susceptible to robbery attempts by thieves who want to keep their eyes off the window.
There are a few alternatives to plywood boards for storm damage protection, but they don't provide the same level of security as a sturdy piece of wood that is encased in windows. For instance roll-down hurricane shutters are popular for insulating homes during storms, but they could create a safety hazard when they are not properly anchored and require time to install and remove. There are also self-stick rubber weather seals can be cut to the exact dimensions of your windows. The seals can be pressed into place to seal gaps that let in cold air and allow warm air to escape.
If you're looking for a more long-term solution, think about installing energy-efficient windows with low-e coatings that allow the sun's radiant heat to pass through while blocking the thermal transfer of other types of heat. Also, consider a draft stopper, which is a simple tube of fabric that is placed on the bottom of your window and prevents cold air from leaking in. These alternatives are more expensive than a complete window replacement, but they will lower your energy costs over the long haul.
Saves Money
While boarding up windows might appear like a costly option to provide in an emergency situation but it actually saves money over the long term. By sealing windows and doors, you can reduce drafts that cause heat to escape the home or business. You can also expect an improvement in your winter energy costs.
Boards are readily available and cheap they are a great alternative for temporary protection from a storm. Before you can make use of them as a protection for your home you'll need to take measurements for each window. Measure horizontally within the trim and vertically between the bottom of the top trim and the sill. Add eight inches to the width and height of both to ensure a tight fitting and allow for expansion in a hurricane. Also, you will require a saw to cut the plywood or OSB and a drill for mounting. For the best results, you must install the boards before a storm is expected and then wait until the weather conditions are safe.
A professional boarding-up company will complete the job quicker and more efficiently than anyone trying to do it on their own. The professionals will use hurricane clip instead of nails to join the boards to your property, thus preventing any damage to the frames. After the storm, they'll dismantle all the boards and return your property back 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 also lead to thefts and other security concerns. Boarding up these broken windows will stop thieves and opportunists from entering your property until the window can be replaced.
You should also board up any vacant property you own. The properties that are vacant are more likely to be targeted by squatters as well as are ideal targets for arsonists therefore this is a crucial step for keeping your property safe until it can be used again.