How To Beat Your Boss In Boarding Up A Doorway
Boarding Up a Doorway
Boarding up a doorway keeps hail, snow, and rain from further damaging the property. It also keeps scavengers as well as vandals away.
Doors are more secure than windows, yet they can still be kicked in or broken down. They should be secured with sturdy frames for doors composed of composite material that won't warp over time.
Find the Doorway
A doorway is a hole in a wall that you can enter or exit the building, room or passageway. The doorway could also function as an access point to another location like an additional room within the same house or other part of the country.
To determine how large a doorway is, you'll need to take measurements. Start by measuring the width from one side of the frame to the other with the tape measure. It is crucial to remove any brickmould or trim pieces prior to taking the measurement. This will allow you to measure the frame, and not the actual door or window. Make use of the largest number of these measurements to determine the dimensions of the doorway.
If you are looking to replace your door, measure the width of the door's opening. You can do this without removing the existing door by removing the old one away from the jamb using the wide tool. This will reveal the rough framing which will be used to frame the new door. The opening's height in three places, and use the smallest number to determine the height of the new door.
You can also determine the width of the doorway by running the tape through the edges of the frame in three spots such as left, center, and right. Record the largest measurement as the width of the doorway. This is the most effective method to ensure that the frame will cover the entire area, and also allow you to put in the door or window you want to replace.
Measure the Frame
The act of boarding up windows , doors, and other openings which let in elements can provide a significant amount of security for your home. The first step is to inspect each window to determine its size and shape, and then determine the length of the frame. Make note of each measurement so that you can cut the boards of plywood accurately.
Wear protective gear prior to starting to safeguard yourself from broken glass and other dangers. It's also best to work with a partner since it's easier to handle huge sheets of plywood with a second pair of hands.
Use wide masking tape to fix the cracks, and then take out any panes that can't be taped. Cover the remaining cracks with heavy plastic garbage bags. Seal the trash bags from the inside to increase their strength.
If the frame is still in good shape, you can save time by skipping framing and simply running a new stud straight across the gap in the midpoint of the window. This will give your board extra strength without having to take off and replace the framing.
Make sure you have a few sheets plywood as well as some tools such as a drill and hammer (if you need to cut the sheets). In accordance with the frame's measurements, mark each board with the window number. Attach the frame to the plywood using the pilot holes you drilled earlier.
Measure the Jambs
The jambs are the three pieces of wood that a door is directly attached to. They are vital to keep a door shut properly. They should be tight and even. You'll have to adjust the jambs if the jambs aren't level.
Start with the hinge side jambs that have a raised section towards the center, which is referred to as the doorstop. The doorstop is placed on the slab of the door to keep it from hitting the frame as it closes. Attach a piece or plywood on the bottom of each stud to raise the floor in the rough opening by 1/2 inch. (Photo). This will stop the door from scuffing against the carpet, tile or throw rug when it is opened and closed.
Remove any trim, molding or casing that is affixed to the hinge side jamb to get a precise measurement. This will expose the opening to allow you can measure it accurately.
After you've measured and marking the locations of the hinge holes on both sides of the hinge jamb. Utilizing a combination square find the mortise depth of the hinge and adjust the combination square until it's the same as the mark you made on the jamb of the hinge. This will ensure that the hinge is centered in the frame and correctly aligned to your door. Repeat the procedure for the latch jamb. Use a nail gun and 2-1/2-inch finishing screws to secure the strike side.
Measure the Header
A header is a large dimension lumber board that is fixed to the wall framing. It transfers loads above windows and doors to the studs below. When framed in properly the king studs attached to each end of the header as well as the jack studs butting against it on both sides create a strong support column that can transfer weight from above the opening to the floor and foundation.
In traditional framed houses, you can use a series of tables in the code to determine the size of the header for a specific span. The code has tables for three different building widths. Interpolation is a method to determine the proper header size.
There are other better, more efficient alternatives to the standard 2x12 header that could save lumber, reduce the risk of thermal bridging and create space for insulation. Builder Mike Guertin takes a look at these options and when they're appropriate:
He also talks about rim-board headers, which can connect an opening in the wall without the use of a header. This eliminates one step in the framing process, and usually results in an even stronger frame. Also, he talks about box headers which are more difficult to construct, but offer greater spans than single-ply headers. He also explains the fastening schedule of these different headers. This requires 8d common nail spaced every 3 inches.
Cut the Boards
Before making a decision to board up a door it is important to thoroughly prepare the area. Get rid of furniture and other decor to allow for ample space and avoid damage to items. Take out the doorknobs, locks, and other hardware, and store them in a secure location to be used later. To improve adhesion, clean the frame and door and clean all surfaces to get rid of dirt and dust. If needed, sand rough patches to ensure that the boards are securely inserted and offer effective protection.
Once the doorway is clear after which it is time to start cutting the plywood boards. A circular saw can make straight cuts through wood and easily cut through it. A Jigsaw is ideal for curved areas. It is crucial to wear protective equipment during this procedure, including dust masks and safety goggles.
It is important to align the board with the frame and jambs when it has been cut to the appropriate size. It is also recommended to add a few vertical pieces of lumber to the bottom of the board for reinforcement. After the board has been properly aligned and secured, it is now ready to be nailed in the desired position.
Boarding up a doorway can help protect the property or home from harm and unauthorized entry during a disaster, storm, or other event. It can be used to protect vacant homes or stop burglaries and thefts until the property is returned to its original location. The best results can be achieved by assessing the circumstances as well as the purpose and kind of boarding.
Install the Boards
Instead of nailing instead, use screws that are strong enough to secure the boards. These fasteners are durable and resist tearing. This improves the efficiency of your board. Weatherstripping or caulk can be used to protect the edges and stop rain and wind from getting in through the gaps. It's also a good idea to leave a ventilation gap in order to avoid humid air and stuffy air.
If you're using a power drill, be sure you wear a pair of gloves and goggles to ensure safety. It is also recommended to use a straightedge and pencil to mark your cutting, because mistakes are more difficult to correct once you're done cutting. You'll need to be as precise as possible when cutting the boards so that they are perfectly positioned against the door casing and frame. The head and jambs will need to be trimmed so that they are level with the wall.
It is recommended to do this prior to the storm hits so that you have enough time to cover any other areas that are at risk. A little planning will save you a lot of time and will help you prepare your business or home for the possibility of a disaster. With the proper preparation, your property can be safe from criminal activity and damage from flying debris and winds. It also gives you peace of mind knowing your property is safe from danger.