One Boarding Up Windows Success Story You'll Never Be Able To
The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
Protecting your property against damage from storms is achievable with building windows with boards. But, it's an labor-intensive job and should be accomplished with the help of another person.
Before you start the process, measure your windows precisely to ensure that the plywood fits perfectly. Make sure you have a circular saw and power drill to cut the boards.
Seals Windows
Boarding windows is a tried and true method for protecting property in the event of an emergency. It's a simple procedure that requires just a few tools and a little time to complete, but it can be extremely efficient.
The main reason to board up windows is to create an enveloping physical layer over the glass, which stops it from breaking due to debris in the event of a hurricane or another severe weather event. The boarding is usually made of plywood and is fixed to the frame of the window using nails or screws. There are other materials that can be used to board up windows, such as duct tape and zip ties, however plywood is inexpensive and simple to work with and is a great option.
Take measurements of the width and height for each window before you begin the boarding process. This information will help you cut a 5/8-inch thick sheet of exterior-grade plywood (OSB) or oriented-strand board. Make sure that the dimensions of the plywood meet the size 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 is cut to size After the plywood has been cut, screw into the hanger bolts using nuts. These bolts are found in the majority of hardware stores as well as home improvement centers. They are designed to be attached directly to the studs on a house. The holes in the plywood should be drilled to an appropriate diameter to match the hanger bolts and set apart by a minimum of 2 inches on all sides. After the storm is over and the plywood is removed and the bolts removed, they can be removed from the studs.
It is important to start the process of boarding your home whenever you can after a hurricane warning has been issued. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to secure your home, and also give you the chance to spot any problems before the storm strikes. The entire process should take a couple of minutes to complete per window.
Preventing break-ins
Boarding up windows can be a great deterrent to burglars. Burglars will target properties that they know they can easily access. If they see the property boarding up, they might be hesitant before attempting to gain entry. Boarded-up windows also prevent burglars being able to view inside the house. This is an important security benefit.
Boarding up windows is also a good way to protect your property from the elements. If you live in an area which is susceptible to severe weather, boarding windows can help keep your property safe from damage. By covering the windows with plywood snow, rain, snow and other debris won't get inside, which can save you a significant amount of money on expensive repairs and replacements.
It is important to select the appropriate materials when you are deciding which window to board. The exterior grade plywood is typically the best choice as it will hold up against the elements. You will also need drilling tools to create holes in the plywood along with screws and putty or caulk to seal the holes. Make sure you measure the window openings before you begin, and then mark where screws will be placed. It is also important to note which plywood panel is for each window or door. Once you've got all the supplies, it's the time to affix your windows.
While boarding windows can prevent burglaries, this method is not foolproof. Even though the boarding can be difficult to install, it's possible that burglars will find an escape route. Additionally, if you only rely on boarding your windows, you may overlook other security measures that could enhance your security.
Installing a security fence is among the best ways to prevent burglaries. This is a great choice for vacant properties, and it can be an excellent addition to boarding your windows. This method is not suitable for commercial or residential buildings that want to keep curb appeal.
Reduces Heat Loss
The act of boarding up your windows will not just protect your home from burglars, but it can also reduce the amount heat that escapes from your windows. Window glass that is not efficient is responsible for about two-thirds the heat loss from homes or buildings. This is caused by the combination of radiation, convection and conduction. Radiation occurs when warm air contacts cold glass that causes the glass to radiate heat away from your body and the home. Convection occurs when hot air rises and colder air replaces it. And conduction is when heat passes through the window's frame, which is usually made of metal.
Windows that break can pose a problem for many businesses and homeowners regardless of whether it's caused by severe weather or vandalism. The window that is boarded up will hide any jagged or rough edges, and it will allow you to keep your business open while the window is repaired. This is particularly crucial for commercial areas, which can be vulnerable to robbery attempts by thieves who want to hide from being observed through the window.
There are a variety of alternatives to plywood for storm damage protection. However, boarding up commercial property do not provide the same level of security as a solid piece of wood covering your window. Roll-down hurricane shutters can be used to shield homes during storms. However, they could pose a safety risk in the event that they are not securely secured and require time to install and remove. You can also use self-stick rubber weather seals that you can cut to the exact measurements of your windows. The seals can be pressed down to close 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 that have low-e coatings that permit the sun's radiant heat to flow through while blocking the thermal transfer of other types of heat. Consider draft stoppers. It's an easy tube of fabric that sits on the bottom of your windows and prevents the escaping of cold air. These options are more costly than a full window replacement, but they can aid in reducing your energy bills in the long term.
Savings on Money
While it may seem expensive to cover windows in the event of an emergency, you will actually save money in the long run. By sealing your windows and doors by using boards, you will reduce drafts that allow heat to escape from the home or commercial space. Also, you will see the reduction in your winter energy bills.
Boards are easily available and inexpensive they are a great option for temporary protection against an incoming storm. But before you use them to protect your property, you need to carefully measure every window. Make sure you take measurements horizontally within the trim and vertically from the bottom of the top trim to the sill. Add eight inches to the width and height of both to ensure a snug fitting and to allow for expansion in a storm. A saw is required to cut the OSB or plywood, and a drill is needed for mounting. Install the boards before an event and remove them once the weather is safe.
A professional boarding up company can do the job faster and more efficiently than a person trying to do it on their own. These professionals will use hurricane clips instead of nails to attach the boards to the property, which will prevent damage to the frames. They can also dismantle the boards after the storm has passed and return your property back to its original condition.
If you're an owner of commercial properties and you have a window that is broken, it can be a major issue. It's not just a problem for the appearance of your property but it can cause theft and other security issues. By boarding up windows that are broken, you will stop thieves and potential criminals from entering your property until the window is able to be replaced.
It is also an excellent idea to secure vacant properties you own. Vacant properties are more likely to be targeted by squatters as well as are ideal targets for arsonists so this is an important step to ensure that your property is secure until it can be used again.