A Step-By-Step Instruction For Boarding Up Windows
The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
Boarding up windows is one way to protect your property from damage caused by storms. It is a difficult task that requires the help of a third party.
Measure your windows to ensure the plywood will fit comfortably. Also, ensure that repairmywindowsanddoors have a circular saw as well as a power drill to cut the boards.
Seals Windows
Boarding up windows is a tried-and-true method of protecting your property in the event of an emergency. It's a simple process that requires just a few basic tools and some time, but it can be extremely effective.
The primary reason for boarding windows is to create an physical barrier to the glass, which prevents it from breaking from debris during a hurricane or other extreme weather event. The boarding is typically constructed of plywood and is attached to the frame of the window with nails or screws. There are other materials that could be used to board up windows, such as duct tape and zip ties, but plywood is inexpensive and simple to work with and is a great option.
Find the height and width for each window prior to you begin the boarding process. This will allow you to cut a 5/8-inch thick sheet of exterior-grade plywood (OSB) or oriented-strand board. Make sure that the dimensions of the plywood are in line with 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 the window frame in order to allow for expansion.
After the plywood has been cut to size, screw it into the frame using hanger bolts as well as nuts. These bolts are available in a variety of hardware stores and home improvement stores. They are designed to connect directly to the studs on the exterior of a home. The holes for the plywood must be drilled at a diameter that is equal to the hanger bolts and set apart by a minimum of 2 inches on all sides. After the storm has passed and the plywood has been removed and the hanger bolts are removed, they can be removed and unscrewed from the studs of the house.
Once a hurricane warning is issued, it is crucial to begin the boarding-up process as soon as possible. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to secure your home and give you the chance to identify any issues before the storm arrives. The entire process should take a couple of minutes per time.
Stops break-ins
The idea of boarding up windows is a great deterrent for burglars. Burglars tend to target properties that they know they can break into and, if they notice the property is closed off, they will be more cautious about trying to enter the property. The windows that are boarded up prevent burglars from being able to see inside the building. This is an important security benefit.
A good way to protect the property is to board up windows. If you live in a region that is susceptible to extreme weather, boarding up windows can keep your property safe from damage. By covering the windows with plywood snow, rain, and other debris cannot get in, which can save you a significant amount of money on expensive repairs and replacements.
It is crucial to choose the right materials when choosing how to board your windows. Exterior-grade plywood is usually the best option, as it will hold up against the elements. You will also need drilling tools to create holes in the plywood, as well as screws and putty or caulk to seal the holes. Make sure you measure the window openings before you begin and mark the locations where screws will be placed. It is also important to note the plywood panel you will need for each window or door. Once you have the necessary materials, it's time to begin boarding your windows.
While boarding windows can deter burglaries, this method is not foolproof. Even though the boarding can be difficult to install, it's possible for burglars to find an escape route. If you only rely on boarding your windows, you may overlook other security measures which could protect your property.
Installing a security fence is among the best methods to deter burglaries. This is a great option for vacant properties and can be an ideal complement to blocking your windows. However, this method is not a good fit for commercial or residential structures that want to maintain an appearance.
Reduces Heat Loss
In addition to protecting your home from break-ins, boarding up windows can cut down on the amount of heat that escapes through your windows. Inefficient window glass is responsible for two-thirds of the heat loss in a building or home. This is caused by the combination of radiation, convection and conduction. Radiation occurs when warm air comes into contact with cold window glass, which causes the glass to radiate heat away from your body and the home. Convection occurs when hot air rises, and colder air replaces it. Conduction is the way that heat passes through the window frame, which is usually composed of metal.
Whether it's severe weather or vandalism, the breaking of windows is a frequent issue that homeowners and businesses have to deal with. By boarding up a window, you can hide any jagged or rough edges, and allows you to keep your business open until the window can be repaired. This is particularly crucial for commercial spaces that are prone to robbery by thieves who don't want to be observed through windows.
There are other alternatives to plywood for storm damage protection. However they do not offer the same level security as a solid piece of wood that covers your window. Roll-down hurricane shutters are used to shield homes during storms. However, they can cause danger in the event that they are not securely secured and require time to put in and take away. You can also use self-sticking rubber weather seals that you can cut to fit the exact dimensions of your windows. The seals can be pressed in place to close gaps that let in cold air while allowing warm air to escape.
Consider installing windows that are energy efficient with low-e coatings on glass that allows sun's heat to flow through and block other forms of heat transfer. Also consider a draft stopper, which is a simple fabric tube that sits at the bottom of your window, and stops cold air from leaking in. These options are more expensive than a full window replacement, but they will lower your energy bills in the long term.
Saves Money
While boarding up windows may appear to be a costly service to offer in a crisis but it actually saves money over the long term. By securing your doors and windows with boards, you reduce drafts that cause heat to escape from your home or commercial space. Also, you will see a reduction in your winter energy bills.
Boards are readily accessible and affordable they are a great choice for temporary protection against an incoming storm. Before you can make use of them as a protection for your home you'll need to take measurements for each window. Take measurements 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 to allow for expansion in a hurricane. A saw is required to cut OSB or plywood and drilling tools are required for mounting. For the best results, it is recommended to install the boards before the storm is predicted and then leave them in place until the weather conditions are safe.
A reputable boarding-up service will be able to complete the job more efficiently and effectively than someone who is trying to do it on their own. Professionals will use hurricane clips instead of nails to secure the boards to the property, preventing damage to the frames. After the storm, they'll remove all the boards and restore your property to its original condition.
If you are an owner of commercial properties, then a broken window could be a major problem. It's not just ruining the appearance of your property, but can also trigger thefts and other security concerns. Boarding up these broken windows will stop thieves and other opportunists from gaining access to your property until the window can be replaced.
It is also recommended to board any vacant property you own. Vacant properties are more likely to be targeted by squatters as well as are easily targets for arsonists, which is why this is an essential step to ensure that your property is secure until it can be used again.