The History Of Boarding Up Windows
The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
Boarding up windows is a way to protect your property from potential storm damage. It's a challenging job that requires the assistance of a third party.
Take measurements of your windows to ensure the plywood will fit comfortably. Also, make sure that you have a circular saw and power drill to cut the boards.
Seals Windows
It's a tried-and reliable method of protecting your home from storm. It's a fairly simple process that requires just a few tools and a little time to complete but it's extremely effective.
The idea of boarding windows serves an important purpose: to prevent the glass from breaking because of debris during an extreme storm or weather. The boarding is usually made from plywood, and is secured to the window frame with either a screw or nail. Other materials, such as zip tie or duct tape can be used to board windows. However, service for boarding up windows is inexpensive and easy to work with and is an extremely popular choice.
To begin the boarding process, take measurements of the width and height of each window. Use this information to cut a piece of 5/8-inch thickness exterior-grade plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). The dimensions of the plywood should be identical to the dimensions of your window frame. Leave a 1 inch gap. There should be a four inch gap between the edge of the plywood and the window frame to allow expansion.
After the plywood is cut to size, you can screw it into place using hanger bolts and nuts. These bolts can be found in a variety of hardware stores and home improvement centers. They are designed to connect directly to the studs on a house. The plywood holes should be drilled with a diameter that matches the hanger bolts, and spaced apart by at least 2 inches on all sides. After the storm is over and the plywood is removed, the hanger bolts can be unscrewed and removed from the studs of the house.
If a hurricane warning has been issued, it is crucial to begin the boarding-up process as soon as possible. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to safeguard your home and give you the chance to spot any issues before the storm arrives. The entire process should take two people about 30 minutes to complete per window.
Stopping break-ins
One of the primary reasons why property owners use the practice of boarding up windows is that it acts as a deterrent to burglars. Burglars will target properties that they know they can easily access. If they see the property boarded up, they might think twice before attempting to gain entry. Boarded up windows also prevent burglars from having the ability to view inside the home and gain another security benefit.
The act of boarding up windows is an excellent way to protect your property from the elements. If you live in a region where there is a high risk of extreme weather, you should board up windows to shield your home. By covering windows with plywood snow, rain, and other debris cannot get inside, which can save you lots of money on costly repairs and replacements.
It is crucial to choose the right materials when deciding how to board your windows. Exterior-grade plywood is usually the best option, as it will hold up against the elements. You will require a drill for drilling holes into the plywood, as well as screws caulk or putty to seal the holes. Make sure to measure the window openings before you begin and mark the locations where screws will be positioned. Also, note down the plywood panel you will need for each door or window. Once you have the necessary materials, it is time to begin boarding your windows.
While boarding windows up can help prevent burglaries, this technique is not foolproof. It is still possible for burglars to find ways around the boarding, and it is not always easy to put in place. Additionally, if you only rely on boarding your windows, you may overlook other security measures that can further protect your property.
Installing security fencing is among the best methods to stop burglaries. This is a great choice for vacant properties and is an excellent addition to boarding your windows. But, this option is not suitable for commercial or residential structures that wish to keep an appearance.
Reduces Heat Loss
In addition to keeping your home safe from burglaries, boarding up windows can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes through your windows. Window glass that is inefficient is responsible for around two-thirds of the loss of heat in homes or buildings. Convection, radiation, as well as conduction are all involved. Radiation is when warm air touches cold glass that causes the glass to emit heat away from your body and home. Convection happens when hot air rises and colder air enters to replace it. Conduction is the process by which heat is absorbed by the window frame, which is typically made of metal.
Weather conditions that are severe or vandalism, the breaking of windows is a frequent issue that many businesses and homeowners must deal with. Boarding up a window conceals any jagged or rough edges and allows you to keep your business open until the window is repaired. This is especially important for commercial spaces that can be vulnerable to theft by thieves who aren't keen on being seen through the windows.
There are a few alternatives to plywood boards for protection against storm damage, but they don't provide the same level of security as a solid piece of wood that covers windows. For example, roll-down hurricane shutters are popular to help in insulating homes during storms, but they could cause a safety risk if they aren't properly secured and require a long time to set up 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 seal gaps that allow cold air and allow warm air to escape.
If you're looking for a more long-term solution, you should consider installing energy-efficient windows with low-e coatings that allow the sun's radiant heat to penetrate but block the transfer of other forms of heat. Consider a draft stopper. This is a simple tube of fabric that is placed on the bottom of your windows, and blocks the escaping of cold air from entering. These options are more expensive than a full window replacement, but they will lower your energy bills over the long haul.
Saves Money
While boarding up windows may seem like a costly service to provide in an emergency however, it actually saves money over the long-term. By sealing doors and windows, you can reduce drafts that cause heat to escape from the business or home. You will also see an improvement in your winter energy bills.
Boards are easily accessible and affordable and are a good choice for temporary protection against the ravages of a storm. Before you can use them as protection for your home you must take measurements for each window. Take measurements horizontally within 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 perfect fit and allow for expansion in the event of a hurricane. You will also require a saw to cut the plywood OSB and a drill for mounting. Install the boards prior to an event and remove them when the weather is safe.
A reputable boarding up business can complete the task faster and more efficiently than anyone trying to do it themselves. Professionals will use hurricane clips instead of nails to secure the boards to the property, which will prevent damage to the frames. After the storm, they'll take down the boards and restore your property back to its original state.
If you're an owner of commercial properties or manager, a damaged window could be a major problem. It not only affects the appearance of your property however, it could also cause theft and other security issues. Boarding up the broken windows will keep criminals and opportunists out of your property until you can replace it.
It is also a good idea to board up any vacant properties you own. This is crucial to ensure that your property is safe while it is being used.