A Step-By Step 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 storm damage. It's a daunting task that requires the help of a third party.
Take measurements of your windows to ensure the plywood will fit snugly. Also, make sure you have a circular saw as well as a power drill to cut the boards.
Seals Windows
The practice of boarding up windows is a tried-and-true method of protecting your property in the event of a storm. It's a fairly simple process that requires only a few tools and a little time however, it can be extremely effective.
The purpose of boarding up windows is one primary goal that is to stop the glass from breaking because of debris during an extreme storm or weather. The boarding is typically made of plywood and fixed to the frame of the window by nail or screw. There are other materials that could be used to cover windows such as duct tape and zip ties, but plywood is inexpensive and simple to work with and is a great choice.
To begin the boarding process, measure the width and height of each window. Use this information to cut a 5/8-inch thick exterior-grade plywood or oriented Strand Board (OSB). Make sure that the dimensions of the plywood meet the dimensions of the window frame, and leave one inch. There is a gap of 4 inches between the edges of the plywood and the window frame to allow for expansion.
After the plywood has been cut to size, screw it into the desired position using hanger bolts and nuts. These bolts are available in a variety of hardware stores and home improvement stores. They are designed to be attached directly to the studs on the house. The holes in the plywood should be drilled to correspond with the diameter of the hanger bolts and should be spaced at minimum 2 inches on 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.
When a hurricane warning is issued, it is important to begin the boarding process as soon as possible. This will enable you to make sure you have enough plywood to secure your home and give you the opportunity to identify any problems before the storm hits. The entire process should take approximately 30 minutes per window, and should be done by two people.
Stopping break-ins
Boarding up windows can be a great deterrent for burglars. Burglars are attracted to properties they know they can easily access. If they see a property that is boarded up, they might think twice before trying to get in. The windows that are boarded up prevent burglars from having access to the property. This is a crucial security advantage.
The practice of boarding up windows is an excellent way to protect your property from the elements. If you live in an area which is susceptible to extreme weather, boarding up windows can help to protect your home from damage. By covering windows with plywood, you can prevent rain, snow and other debris from getting in. This can save you money on expensive repairs and replacements.
It is crucial to choose the appropriate materials when you are deciding which window to board. The best choice is exterior-grade plywood, which will stand up to the elements. You will also need a drill to make holes in the plywood as well as screws, putty or caulk to seal the holes. Make sure to determine the openings of your windows before you begin and mark where screws will be put. Also, note the type of plywood that goes with each window or door. Once you have the necessary items, it's time to start boarding up your windows.
While boarding your windows can help to prevent burglaries, it is not 100% secure. Even though the boarding is difficult to install, it's possible for burglars to find ways around it. In addition, if you are solely relying on boarding your windows, you could overlook other security measures that could enhance your security.
Installing security fencing is among the best ways to prevent burglaries. This is an excellent choice for vacant properties and is an excellent complement to boarding up your windows. However, this solution is not suitable for residential or commercial buildings that want to maintain the curb appeal.
Reduces Heat Loss
The act of 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. About two-thirds loss from a house or building is due inefficient windows. This happens because of a combination of radiation, convection and conduction. Radiation occurs when warm window glass is in contact with cold air, which causes it to radiate heat away. Convection happens when hot air rises, and colder air moves in to replace it. Conduction happens when heat passes through the window's frame, which is usually composed of steel.
Breaking windows can be a major issue for homeowners and businesses regardless of whether it's due to extreme weather or vandalism. The boarded-up window 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 important for commercial buildings that are prone to robbery by thieves who aren't keen on being visible through windows.
There are some alternatives to plywood for storm damage protection. However they do not offer the same level security as a solid piece wood that covers your window. For example roll-down hurricane shutters are popular to help in insulating homes during storms, but they could create a safety hazard when they aren't securely anchored and require a long time to set up and remove. Another alternative is to make use of strips of self-stick rubber weather seal which you cut to fit the dimensions of your window. boarding up windows bedford Repair My Windows And Doors can be pressed in place to seal gaps that let in cold air while allowing warm air to escape.
If you are looking for a longer-term solution, you should consider installing energy efficient windows with low-e coatings that allow the sun's radiant heat to penetrate while preventing the 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 escape of cold air from entering. These options can be more expensive than a complete window replacement, but they can aid in reducing your energy bills in the long run.
Saves Money
Although it might seem costly to cover windows in an emergency, you will actually save money over the long term. By sealing your doors and windows by using boards, you will reduce drafts that allow heat to escape from the home or commercial space. You will also see an improvement in your winter energy costs.
Boards are easily available and inexpensive, making them an excellent choice for temporary protection against the ravages of a storm. Before you can make use of them as a protection for your property, you will need to measure each window. Make sure you measure horizontally inside the trim and vertically from the bottom of the top trim to the sill. Then, add eight inches to the width and height to ensure a snug fit and allow for expansion during an event like a hurricane. A saw is required to cut the OSB or plywood and drills are required to mount the boards. To get the best results, you must install the boards before the storm is predicted and wait to remove them until the conditions are safe.
A reputable boarding-up service can complete the job more efficiently and effectively than someone who is trying it on their own. The professionals will use hurricane clip instead of nails to attach the boards to your property, preventing any damage to the frames. They can also remove the boards when the storm has passed and restore your property back to its original condition.
If you're a commercial property owner, then a broken window could be a major problem. Not only does it ruin the appearance of your building but it can cause theft and other security concerns. By boarding up the windows that have broken, you will keep thieves and opportunists away from your property until you can replace it.
It is also a good idea to put up a fence around vacant properties you own. This is essential to ensure your property is secure even when it is in use.