The History Of Boarding Up Windows
The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
Protecting your property against storm damage is possible by board up windows. However, it's labor-intensive and must be completed with the assistance of another person.
Measure your windows to ensure that the plywood will fit comfortably. Make sure you have the 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 simple process that requires only the use of a few tools and a bit of time, but can be very effective.
The main reason to board up windows is to provide a physical barrier over the glass, which stops it from breaking due to debris during a hurricane or other extreme weather event. The boarding is typically constructed from plywood, and is attached to the frame of the window using nails or screws. There are other materials that can be used to cover windows such as duct tape or zip ties, but plywood is cheap and easy to work with and is a great choice.
To begin the boarding process, take measurements of the height and width of each window. Make use of this information to cut a 5/8-inch thick exterior-grade plywood or oriented Strand Board (OSB). Make sure the dimensions of the plywood are in line with the size of the window frame and leave a 1 4 inch gap between the edges of the plywood and the window frame to allow for expansion.

After the plywood is cut to size, screw it into the frame using hanger bolts as well as nuts. These bolts are designed to be attached to the studs of a house, and can be purchased at a wide range of hardware stores and home improvement stores. The holes in the plywood need to be drilled to correspond with the diameter of the hanger bolts, and should be spaced at 2 inches from all sides. After the storm has ended and the plywood is removed, the bolts can be unscrewed from the studs.
When a hurricane warning is issued, it is crucial to begin the boarding process as soon possible. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to secure your home and give you the chance to spot any issues before the storm hits. The whole process should take around 30 minutes per window and should be completed by two people.
Preventing Break-Ins
One of the main reasons that property owners choose to the practice of boarding up windows is that it serves as a deterrent for burglars. Burglars tend to target homes 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 having access to the building. This is a significant security benefit.
The act of boarding up windows is an excellent way to protect your property from weather. If you live in a place where there is a high risk of severe weather, board up windows to safeguard your property. By covering windows with plywood you can stop rain, snow, and other debris from getting inside. This will help you save money on costly repairs and replacements.
It is important to select the right materials when deciding how to board your windows. The best choice is exterior grade plywood, which can be able to withstand the elements. You will require a drill for drilling holes into the plywood as well as screws caulk, putty or caulk for sealing the holes. Before you begin, make sure to measure the openings in your windows and mark the locations where screws will go. Also, note which plywood panel goes with each door or window. Once you've got all the items, it's time to board up your windows.
While boarding your windows can help stop burglaries, it is not 100% secure. Even though the boarding is difficult to put up, it is possible that burglars will find an escape route. If you rely solely on boarding your windows, you might overlook other security measures that can protect your home.
One of the most effective methods to prevent burglaries is by installing security fencing. This is a great choice for vacant homes, and it can be an excellent addition to boarding up windows. This method is not suitable for residential or commercial buildings that wish to maintain curb appeal.
Reduces Heat Loss
By boarding your windows, you will not just protect your home from burglars, but can also reduce the amount heat that escapes your windows. Inefficient window glass is responsible for about two-thirds the heat loss from a building or home. This is caused by a combination of convection, radiation and conduction. Radiation occurs when warm window glass comes into contact with cold air which causes it to radiate heat away. Convection occurs when hot air rises before colder air replaces it. Conduction occurs when heat passes through the window's frame, which is often composed of steel.
It doesn't matter if it's extreme weather or vandalism, breaking windows is a problem that homeowners and businesses must deal with. The window that is boarded up will hide any rough edges or jagged edges, and it will allow you to keep your business open while the window is repaired. This is particularly crucial for commercial areas which are prone to robbery attempts by thieves who wish to hide from being observed through the window.
There are many alternatives to plywood boards for storm damage protection however, they do not offer the same level of security as a solid piece of wood covering a window. Roll-down hurricane shutters can be used to protect homes from storms. However, they can cause danger in the event that they are not securely secured and require time to put in and take away. You can also use self-stick rubber weather seals can be cut to fit the exact dimensions of your windows. The seals can be pressed in place to close gaps that allow cold air while allowing warm air to escape.
Consider installing energy-efficient windows with low-e coatings on glass that allows the sun's heat to pass through and block other forms of heat transfer. Also consider draft stoppers, which is a simple fabric tube that sits on the bottom of your window to prevent cold air from leaking in. These options are more expensive than a full window replacement, but they can reduce your energy bills in the long term.
Savings on Money
While boarding up windows might appear to be a costly service to provide in an emergency but it actually saves money over the long-term. By sealing doors and windows, you can reduce drafts which cause heat to escape the home or office. You will also see a reduction in your winter energy costs.
Boards are readily available and cheap 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'll need to take measurements for each 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 height and width of both to ensure a snug fitting and allow for expansion in a storm. A saw is required to cut the OSB or plywood, and drilling tools are required to mount the boards. Install the boards before an event and take them off when the weather is safe.
A professional boarding up company can do the job faster and more efficiently than anyone trying to do it themselves. These professionals will use hurricane clips instead of nails to adhere the boards to the property, preventing damage to the frames. They can also dismantle the boards after the storm passes and return your property to its original condition.
A window that is damaged can be a big problem for commercial property owners. Not only does it ruin the appearance of your property, but it can also cause theft and other security concerns. By boarding up the windows that have broken, you will keep criminals and opportunists away from your property until you are able replace it.
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.