The Advanced Guide To Boarding Up Windows
The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
The idea of boarding up windows is a way to safeguard your home from potential storm damage. But, it's labor-intensive and must be done with the help of another person.
Before you begin the process make sure you measure your windows accurately to ensure that the plywood is sized correctly. Make sure you have the power drill and circular saw to cut the boards.
Seals Windows
Boarding windows is a tried and true method for protecting property in the event of an incoming storm. It's a simple procedure that requires just a few basic tools and some time, however, it can be very effective.
The main reason to board up windows is to provide an enveloping physical layer over the glass that prevents it from breaking from debris in the event of a hurricane or another extreme weather event. The boarding is typically made of plywood and is connected to the frame by screw or nail. Other materials, such as zip tie or duct tape can be used to board windows. However plywood is cheap and easy to use which makes it an extremely popular choice.
Take measurements of the width and height of each window prior to when you begin the boarding process. Utilizing this information, cut a 5/8-inch thick exterior grade plywood or oriented Strand Board (OSB). The dimensions of the plywood should be identical to the size of your window frame. Leave one inch of space. There should be a four inch gap between the edge of the plywood and the window frame to allow for expansion.
After cutting the plywood to size, you can screw it into the frame using hanger bolts as well as nuts. These bolts are made to attach to the studs of a home and are available at a variety of hardware stores or home improvement stores. The holes in the plywood should be drilled at an appropriate diameter to match the hanger bolts and spaced apart by at least 2 inches on all sides. When the storm has passed and the plywood has been removed and the hanger bolts are removed, they can be unscrewed and removed from the studs of the house.
When a hurricane warning is issued, it is crucial to begin the boarding-up process as soon as you can. This will allow you to ensure that you have sufficient plywood to protect your house and also allow you to find any issues before the storm arrives. The entire process should take about 30 minutes per window and should be completed by two people.
Prevents break-ins
The idea of boarding up windows is a great deterrent to burglars. Burglars will target properties that they know they can easily enter. If they see the property boarding up they may think twice before attempting to enter. Windows that are screened off also stop burglars from being able to look inside the property as well, which is a major security benefit.
A good way to protect property is to secure it by boarding up windows. If you live in a region where there is a high risk of extreme weather, you should board up windows to shield your property. By covering the windows with plywood, rain, snow and other debris won't get in, which can save you lots of money on expensive repairs and replacements.
It is essential to select the right materials when choosing how to board your windows. The best choice is exterior grade plywood, which is able to withstand the elements. You will need a drill for drilling holes in the plywood, along with screws caulk or putty for sealing the holes. Before you begin, be sure to measure the openings in your windows and note where the screws will go. You should also write down the plywood panel you will need for each window or door. Once you've got all the items, it's time to affix your windows.
While boarding your windows can help to prevent burglaries, it is not completely secure. It is still possible for burglars to get around the boarding, and it's not always easy to put in place. In boarding up croydon , if you are solely relying on boarding your windows, you might overlook other security measures that could help protect your home.
One of the most effective methods to prevent burglaries is by installing security fencing. This is a great option for vacant properties and could be an ideal complement to boarding your windows. This method is not suitable for commercial or residential buildings that want to keep curb appeal.
Reduces Heat Loss
Boarding up your windows will not only protect your home from burglars, but can also cut down on the amount of heat that escapes through your windows. Inefficient window glass is responsible for about two-thirds the heat loss in the home or building. 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 radiate heat away from your body and your home. Convection occurs when hot air rises, and colder air moves in to replace it. Conduction happens when heat flows through a window's frame which is typically composed of steel.
Broken windows can be a major issue for many businesses and homeowners, whether it is because of severe weather or vandalism. The act of boarding up windows hides any jagged or rough edges, and allows you to keep your business open until the window is repaired. This is particularly important for commercial buildings which are susceptible to theft by thieves who aren't keen on being observed through windows.
There are many alternatives to plywood boards to protect against storm damage however they don't offer the same level of security as a solid piece of wood that is encased in windows. Roll-down hurricane shutters are used to insulate homes during storms. However, they can be a danger to your safety in the event that they are not secure enough and can take a long time to set up and remove. Another option is to use strips of self-stick weather sealing which you cut to fit the dimensions of your window. The seals can be pressed down to close gaps that allow cold air and allow warm air to escape.
Consider installing windows that are energy efficient with low-e coated glass that allows sun's warmth to pass through, while blocking other types of heat transfer. Also consider a draft stopper, which is a simple fabric tube that sits in the bottom of your window and prevents cold air from leaking in. These options are more expensive than a complete window replacement but will reduce your energy bills in the long run.
Saves Money
While it might be costly to board up windows in an emergency, you'll actually save money in the long run. By sealing your windows and doors with boards, you can reduce drafts that cause heat to escape from your home or commercial space. Also, you will see the reduction in your winter energy bills.
Boards are easily available and inexpensive, making them an excellent choice for temporary protection against a storm. But before you make use of them to protect your property, you need to be sure to measure each window. Measure horizontally inside the trim and vertically between the bottom of the top trim and the sill. Then add eight inches to both the width and height to ensure a snug fit and allow for expansion during the event of a hurricane. A saw is required to cut the OSB or plywood and drills are required for mounting. For best results, you should install the boards before an expected storm and then leave them in place until the weather conditions are safe.
A professional boarding-up business will be able to do the job faster and more effectively than someone who is trying it on their own. These professionals will use hurricane clip instead of nails to join the boards to your property, preventing any damage to the frames. After the storm, they'll dismantle all the boards and return your property back to its original state.
If you are a property owner for a commercial business or manager, a damaged window can be a major issue. It's not just ruining the appearance of your property but can also trigger burglaries and other security issues. The act of boarding these windows will prevent criminals and opportunists from entering your property until the window is able to be repaired.
You should also secure any vacant property you own. This is important to ensure that your property is safe even when it is in use.