The Ultimate Guide To Boarding Up Windows
The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
Protecting your home from storm damage is feasible with building windows with boards. But, it's a labor-intensive task and must be accomplished with the help of a third party.
Take measurements of your windows to ensure that the plywood will fit perfectly. Also, make sure that you have a circular saw as well as a power drill to cut the boards.
Seals Windows
It's a tried-and reliable method of protecting your property from a storm. It's a simple process that requires just the use of a few tools and a bit of time, but it can be extremely effective.
The idea of boarding windows serves an important purpose in order to prevent glass from breaking due to debris during an extreme storm or weather. The boarding is typically made of plywood and connected to the frame with a screw or nail. There are other materials that could be used to cover windows such as duct tape and zip ties, however plywood is inexpensive and simple to work with, making it an obvious option.
Find the height and width for each window prior to you begin the boarding process. This information will help you cut a 5/8-inch thickness of exterior-grade plywood (OSB) or oriented-strand board. The dimensions of the plywood should match the size of your window frame. Leave a 1 inch gap. There should be a 4 inch gap between the edge of the plywood and the window frame in order 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 available in the majority of hardware stores as well as home improvement centers. They are designed to connect directly to the studs of a house. The holes in the plywood must be drilled to correspond with the diameter of the hanger bolts, and should be spaced at 2 inches from all sides. When the storm is over and the plywood has been removed and the hanger bolts are removed, they can be removed and unscrewed from the studs of the house.
It is important to start the boarding up process as soon as possible, when a hurricane watch has been issued. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to safeguard your home and give you a chance to find any problems before the storm strikes. The entire process should take about 30 minutes for each window, and should be completed by two people.
Preventing Break-Ins
One of the main reasons why property owners use the practice of boarding up windows is that it serves as a deterrent for burglars. simply click the up coming webpage know they can easily break into, and if they see that a house has been closed off, they will think twice about trying to break into it. Boarded up windows also prevent burglars from being able to look inside the property, which is another important security benefit.
The practice of boarding up windows is an effective way to shield your property from weather. If you live in an area that is prone to extreme weather, boarding windows can help to keep your property safe from damage. By covering windows with plywood snow, rain, and other debris cannot get inside, which can save you a significant amount of money on costly repairs and replacements.
It is essential to select the right materials when choosing what to use for the boarding of your windows. The best choice is exterior-grade plywood, which can withstand the elements. You will require drills for drilling holes in the plywood, as well as screws caulk, putty or caulk to seal the holes. Before you begin, make sure to measure the window openings and mark the locations where screws will be. It is also important to note the plywood panel that is attached to each door or window. Once you have all the materials, it's time to begin boarding your windows.
Although boarding up windows can prevent burglaries, this technique is not foolproof. It is still possible for burglars to find ways around the boarding, and it's not always simple to install. Furthermore, if your only rely on boarding your windows, you might overlook other security measures that could help protect your home.
Installing security fencing is among the best methods to deter burglaries. This is a great option for vacant properties and could be an alternative to boarding your windows. However, this method is not suitable for commercial or residential buildings that wish to keep an appearance.
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 through your windows. Window glass that is not efficient is responsible for about two-thirds the heat loss in a building or home. This is caused by a combination of convection, radiation and conduction. Radiation occurs when warm air contacts cold glass, which causes the glass to radiate heat away from your body and home. Convection is when hot air rises, and colder air enters to replace it. Conduction happens when heat passes through a window's frame which is often made of metal.
Windows that break can be a problem for homeowners and businesses alike, whether it is caused by extreme weather or vandalism. Boarding up a window conceals any rough or jagged edges, and allows you to keep your business open until the window can be repaired. This is particularly important for commercial spaces that are susceptible to robbery attempts by thieves looking to hide from being observed through the window.
There are a few alternatives to plywood boards for storm damage protection however they don't offer 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, however they can create a safety hazard when they are not properly anchored and require time to install and remove. Another alternative is to use strips of self-stick rubber weather seal that you cut to fit your window dimensions. Seals can be pressed into place to seal gaps, allowing cold air to get in and warm air to leave.
If you are looking for a more long-term solution, consider installing energy efficient windows with low-e coatings, which allow the sun's radiant heat to penetrate while preventing the transfer of other kinds of heat. Consider draft stoppers. It's an easy tube of fabric that sits on the bottom of your windows and prevents the escape of cold air from entering. These options are more expensive than a complete window replacement, but they will lower your energy costs in the long run.
Saves Money
Although it might seem costly to board up windows in the event of an emergency, you will actually save money in the end. By sealing windows and doors, you can reduce drafts which cause heat to escape the home or office. As a result you will pay lower energy costs in the winter.
Boards are inexpensive and easily available, making them a good choice for temporary protection against a storm. But before you use them to safeguard your property, you must be sure to measure 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 the width and height to ensure a tight fit and allow for expansion in a storm. You will also require a saw to cut the plywood or OSB and a drill for mounting. Install the boards before the storm, and then remove them when the weather is safe.
A professional boarding up company can do the job faster and more efficiently than anyone trying to do it by themselves. These professionals will use hurricane clips instead of nails to adhere the boards to the property, preventing damage to the frames. After the storm, they can remove all the boards and return your property back to its original condition.
A window that is damaged could be a huge issue for commercial property owners. It not only affects the appearance of your property however, it could also cause theft and other security concerns. The act of boarding these windows will stop criminals and potential criminals from entering your property until the window can be repaired.
You should also secure any vacant property you own. This is important to ensure your property is secure while it is being used.