How To Create Successful Boarding Up Windows And Doors Tutorials From Home
Boarding Up Windows and Doors Before a Storm Hits
Before a storm hits and your windows are smashed, boarding them up and doors can protect your home from damage. To do this, you must have a few things in the go.
First, measure the width and height of the window, including the framing (not the surrounding trim or masonry). Note these measurements down so you don't forget them.
Preparation
It is recommended to put up a board on windows and doors before a storm or other natural disaster strikes. This will minimize the risk of property damage and also reduce the chance of dying. Window board-up requires a lot of preparation, such as buying and measuring plywood boards and identifying the exact size of each window that needs to be covered. It takes time to cut and install the boards properly. Fortunately it is possible to make the process simplified by starting the preparations immediately you learn of a possible storm forming in your area. You can avoid a stressful rush at the last minute and make it easier for you and your staff.
Start by listening to the forecasters for weather and follow the guidelines set by your local government. The earlier you begin the process the better, as it allows you time to gather and store the necessary items without being pushed by a fast-approaching storm. Depending on the severity of the pending event, you may need massive quantities of plywood to cover your windows. Use a tape to measure the height and width of each window opening. Be sure to include the trim or framing around each window, and any ledges that are extended, if applicable.
Then, determine the dimensions of the plywood sheets you need by dividing your window's total height and width by 2. If your window measures a width of 16 inches, the thickness of each sheet is 8 inches. If you have wood exterior, drill pilot holes in the plywood sheet that align with the frame of your window to avoid splitting when you screw into the screws.
For a window opening that is larger than what one sheet of plywood can handle, cut two separate sheets that are each half the size of the intended window and lay them side-by-side on the wall. Cut a piece of 2 by 4 inches (5.1 x 10.2 cm) of lumber to the length of the connecting edge between the two sheets of plywood and then place it on the top of the seam. Then you can drive 2.25 in (5.7 cm) screws through the bracing and into the plywood sheet to join them.
Materials
To ensure security and safety For security and safety, boarding windows and doors must be done using only sturdy materials that will not break under pressure or splinter in high winds. Plywood is a popular material used to encase windows. It is simple to use, inexpensive and readily available. Pick plywood that is exterior grade (CDX) because it is more durable and have less knots and warps. Storm shutters, also known as hurricane shutters, are a more durable option. They can be erected over existing windows and offer greater protection against broken glasses and weather conditions that can be severe.
Once you've identified the location of your windows take measurements of the height and width of each to determine how much plywood you'll need. Then you can use a power drill to make pilot holes in the plywood sheets at two-inch intervals around each window. Mark the walls with studs prior to attaching the plywood to ensure that the boards are securely fastened. If potters-bar boarding up doors have wood siding on your property, search for nailheads to determine stud location. You could also use your drill to determine the locations of studs. Be sure to drive the screws into the framing and not the sheathing or trim; A plywood panel that is fastened to these materials may become dangerous in winds that are strong.
If your window is too large for one sheet of plywood, you could cut two pieces of plywood that are each half of the size needed and join them with two by four inches of lumber. Label each piece of plywood so that you can identify which window it will be covering.
To attach the plywood panels to the wall, use corrosion-resistant screws that are sufficient in length to penetrate both the sheathing as well as the studs. To secure the plywood panels to the wall, use screws made of corrosion-resistant that are long enough to penetrate the sheathing and the studs.
In addition to protecting your windows, you should install a "No Trespassing" sign on the property and consider installing polycarbonate security glass like DefenseLite over your windows. These transparent shields bond over existing glazing to protect your doors and windows. They are virtually impossible to break, preventing criminals from gaining entry.
Installation
If you live or are planning to move to a place susceptible to hurricanes and you are worried about the storm it is recommended to board up your doors and windows. It's a task that can be completed quickly and effectively however only if you take the time to measure and cut, then label your plywood panels before the storm comes.
You'll also require other tools, including drills (or an hammer and nails for those who don't own the power drill) and tape, a saw, gloves, a level and safety glasses. It's an excellent idea for the plywood to be coated with sealant to make it waterproof.
Start by taking measurements of the width and height of each window opening, and then cutting your plywood sheets so they fit inside the frames, with a 4-inch overlap on all sides. This is best done on site because you have more control over the exact dimensions.
Cut the boards to the size you want using a circular or track saw. Once they're installed it is necessary to sand them down completely. them. After your boards are set put the 3 inch stainless hanger screws made of steel into the framing posts around each window. Use washers to secure each bolt and the wing nuts. Make sure that each screw is able to penetrate the studs at least two inches to ensure that the board is strong enough to resist high winds.
If you're building using concrete blocks, you can attach the plywood with pan head screws that are galvanized and that are driven into the overlapping edges of the panels to the masonry or cinder block. You will also need to drill pilot holes in the masonry and then screw corrosion resistant screws into the holes. This task can take up to three hours for each period. It is essential to start the work as soon when a hurricane warning has been issued. This will give you ample time to finish the project before the storm arrives.
Maintenance
You should be prepared to board up your windows and doors before the onset of a severe storm. This will help you avoid costly repairs and safeguard your home from further damage that could be caused by wind, rain flying objects, and other elements.
The right tools will make the boarding up process much easier and quicker to complete. The most important thing is to accurately determine the dimensions of each window you'll need to cover. This will ensure the OSB or plywood fits well and will not be able to slide off easily. If you are using plywood, make sure you use sheets of exterior grade and think about adding a protective finish.
Mark the places where screws are to be placed into the board after you have measured the OSB or plywood. Then, you can use a drill to drill holes into the plywood at intervals of 12 inches. You can then use hanger bolts to secure the boards in a catastrophe situation. Once the storm has passed and the local authorities have given you the all-clear, remove the bolts but keep them in case of a need in the future.
The next step is to install the plywood panels above the windows. This is a job for two people So be prepared before starting. If you are using plywood be sure to sand the edges of the piece to make them smooth so that they don't scratch paint or damage trim. Then use corrosion-resistant screws to attach the plywood using the pilot holes. If your home has vinyl shingles on it, attach the plywood directly to the shingles and not the wood framing.
In addition to keeping out rain and other weather elements, a boarded-up window is also an effective method to stop burglaries. The burglars will be more likely to target a structure that has a broken window or one that's not secured. They are also more likely to break in stores with a smashed-up window than one without. This is something that retail business owners should take very seriously.