The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
Boarding up windows is one way to protect your property from potential storm damage. It is a difficult job that requires the assistance of another person.
Before you start the process, measure your windows precisely to ensure that the plywood fits perfectly. Also, ensure that you have a circular saw and power drill to cut the boards.
Seals Windows
Boarding windows is a tried and true method to protect your home in the event of a storm. It's a relatively simple process that requires only a few tools and a little time, but it can be extremely effective.
The primary reason for boarding windows is to create a physical barrier over the glass, which stops it from breaking due to debris in the event of a hurricane or another severe weather event. The boarding is typically constructed from plywood, and is attached to the frame of the window with either a screw or nail. There are other materials that can be used to cover windows like duct tape or zip ties, but plywood is affordable and easy to work with, making it an obvious choice.
Find the height and width of each window prior to when 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 be identical to the dimensions of your window frame. Leave an 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 the plywood is cut to size, screw in the hanger bolts with nuts. These bolts are available in most hardware stores and home improvement centers. They are designed to connect directly to the studs on the exterior of a home. The holes in the plywood should be drilled to a diameter that matches the hanger bolts and set apart by at least 2 inches on all sides. When the storm has passed and the plywood has been removed, the bolts can be unscrewed from the studs.
When a hurricane warning is issued, it's important to begin boarding up your home as soon possible. This will enable you to ensure that you have enough plywood to protect your house and also give you the opportunity to identify any problems before the storm. The entire process should only take two people about 30 minutes for each window.
Prevents Break-Ins
One of the primary reasons why property owners use boarded up windows is that it acts as a deterrent to burglars. Burglars are attracted to properties they know they can easily enter. If they see the property boarding up they may think twice before attempting to gain entry. Boarded up windows also prevent burglars from having the ability to look inside the property as well, which is a major security benefit.
Boarding up windows is also an effective way to shield your property from weather. If you live in a region where there is a high risk of severe weather, board up windows to protect your home. By covering windows with plywood snow, rain, and other debris are unable to be able to enter, which could save you a significant amount of money on costly repairs and replacements.
When you're deciding on the best way to board up your windows, it's crucial to select the appropriate materials. Exterior-grade plywood is usually the best choice, since it will hold up against the elements. You will also need drilling tools to create holes in the plywood, as well as screws and putty or caulk to close the holes. Before you begin, make sure to measure the window openings and mark the locations where screws will be. Also, note down which plywood panel is for each door or window. Once you have the necessary materials, it is time to begin boarding your windows.
While boarding your windows can help to prevent burglaries, it is not completely secure. Although the boarding is difficult to put up, it is possible for burglars to find a way around it. In addition, if you only rely on boarding your windows, you may overlook other security measures that can further protect your property.
Installing a security fence is one of the best methods to stop burglaries. boarding up houses repairmywindowsanddoors is a great option for vacant properties and could be a complement to boarding your windows. However, this method is not a good fit for commercial or residential structures that want to maintain a level of curb appeal.
Reduces Heat Loss
Boarding up your windows will not only protect your home from intruders, but it can also reduce the amount heat that escapes from your windows. Window glass that is inefficient is responsible for around two-thirds of the heat loss from the home or building. Convection, radiation, as well as conduction are all involved. Radiation occurs when warm windows glass is in contact with cold air, which causes it to radiate heat away. Convection occurs when hot air rises, and colder air replaces it. Conduction is the process by which heat moves through the window frame, which is typically composed of metal.
It doesn't matter if it's extreme weather or vandalism, the breaking of windows is a frequent issue that many businesses and homeowners must deal with. The boarded-up window will hide any jagged or rough edges, and allow you to keep your business open while the window is being repaired. This is especially crucial for commercial areas, which can be vulnerable to robbery attempts by thieves who want to keep their eyes off the window.
There are a variety of alternatives to plywood to protect against storm damage. However they don't offer the same level of security as a solid piece wood covering your window. Roll-down hurricane shutters can be used to shield homes during storms. However, they can pose a safety risk if they are not properly secured and take time to set up and remove. Another option is to use strips of self-stick rubber weather seal that you cut to fit the dimensions of your window. The seals can be pressed in place to close gaps that allow cold air and allow warm air to escape.
Consider installing energy-efficient windows with low-e coated glass that allows the sun's warmth to pass through, while blocking other types of heat transfer. Also consider draft stoppers which is a basic fabric tube that is placed in the bottom of your window to prevent cold air from getting in. These options are more expensive than a full window replacement, but they can reduce your energy bills in the long run.
Saves Money
While boarding up windows might seem like a costly service to offer in an emergency, it actually saves you money over the long-term. By securing your windows and doors by using boards, you will reduce drafts that cause heat to escape from your home or commercial space. Also, you will see a reduction in your winter energy bills.
Boards are inexpensive and easily accessible and are a good choice for temporary protection from the elements. Before you are able to use them as a security for your property you must measure every window. Be sure to take measurements horizontally within the trim and vertically from the bottom of the top trim to the sill. Add eight inches to the width and height of the trim to ensure a secure fitting and to allow for expansion in a hurricane. Also, you will require a saw to cut the plywood or OSB and a drill to facilitate mounting. For best results, you must install the boards prior to when the storm is predicted and wait to remove them until the conditions are safe.
A professional boarding-up business can complete the job faster and more effectively than someone who is trying it on their own. They use hurricane clips instead of nails to attach the boards to your property, thus preventing any damage to the frames. They can also dismantle the boards once the storm has passed and return your property back to its original condition.
If you're an owner of commercial properties, then a broken window can be a major issue. It's not just a problem for the appearance of your building but it can cause theft and other security issues. The act of boarding these windows will stop thieves and other opportunists from gaining access to your property until the window is able to be replaced.
It is also an excellent idea to secure vacant properties that you own. Vacant properties are more likely to be targeted by squatters and are easily targets for arsonists, therefore this is a crucial step to keep your property safe until it can be used again.