A Boarding Up Windows Success Story You'll Never Imagine

The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows Boarding up windows is a way to protect your property from damage caused by storms. However, it's a labor-intensive task and must be accomplished with the help of another person. Before beginning the process, measure your windows precisely to ensure that the plywood fits snugly. Make sure you have the power drill and circular saw to cut the boards. Seals Windows It's a tried and true method to protect your home from storm. It's a simple procedure that only requires a few basic tools and some time but it can be extremely effective. The idea of boarding windows serves an important purpose that is to stop the glass from breaking due to debris during the storm or other severe weather. The boarding is typically constructed of plywood, and is fixed to the frame of the window with a screw or nail. There are other materials that could be used to cover windows like 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. This will allow you to cut a 5/8-inch thickness of exterior-grade plywood (OSB) or oriented-strand board. The dimensions of the plywood must be similar to the size of your window frame. Leave an inch gap. A gap of 4 inches between the edges of the plywood and the window frame to allow for expansion. After the plywood is cut to size, you can screw it into place using hanger bolts and nuts. These bolts are made to attach to the studs of a home, and can be purchased at a variety of hardware stores or home improvement stores. The holes in the plywood must be made to match the diameter of the hanger bolts, and should be spaced at least 2 inches apart on all sides. After the storm is over and the plywood has been removed and the bolts removed, they can be removed from the studs. If a hurricane warning has been issued, it is important to begin the boarding process as soon as possible. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to protect your home, and also give you the chance to spot any issues before the storm arrives. The entire process should take about 30 minutes for each window, and should be done by two people. Preventing Break-Ins The idea of boarding up windows is a great deterrent for burglars. Burglars will target properties that they know they can easily access. If they see a property that is boarded up they may think twice before attempting to gain entry. The windows that are boarded up prevent burglars from being able to view inside the property. This is a significant security advantage. A good way to protect property is by board up windows. If you live in a region where there is a high risk of severe weather, it is advisable to board up windows to protect your property. By covering windows with plywood, you can block snow, rain and other debris from getting inside. This will help you save money on costly repairs and replacements. When deciding on how to frame windows, it is important to choose the right materials. The best choice is exterior grade plywood, which can stand up to the elements. You will require a drill for drilling holes in the plywood, as well as screws caulk or putty for sealing the holes. Before you begin, be sure to measure your window openings and note where the screws will be. It is also important to note the plywood panel you will need for each door or window. Once you've got all the supplies, it's the time to board up your windows. Although boarding up windows can prevent burglaries, this method isn't foolproof. Even though the boarding can be difficult to put up, it is possible that burglars will find an escape route. If you only rely on the boarding of your windows, you may overlook other security measures that can protect your home. One of the most effective ways to prevent burglaries is by installing security fencing. This is a great option for vacant properties and is a great complement to boarding your windows. This solution is not suitable for residential or commercial structures that want to keep curb appeal. Reduces Heat Loss In addition to safeguarding your home from break-ins, boarding up windows can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes through your windows. About two-thirds loss from a house or building is due to the inefficiency of windows. This is caused by the combination of convection, radiation, and conduction. Radiation is when warm air touches cold window glass, which causes the glass to radiate heat away from your body and your home. Convection occurs when hot air rises before colder air replaces it. Conduction occurs when heat flows through a window's frame, which is usually made of metal. It doesn't matter if it's extreme weather or vandalism, the breaking of windows is a common issue that homeowners and businesses must deal with. The boarded-up window will hide any rough edges or jagged edges, and it will allow you to keep your business open while the window is being repaired. This is particularly important for commercial buildings that can be vulnerable to theft by thieves who aren't keen on being visible through windows. There are a few alternatives to plywood boards for storm damage protection, but they don't provide the same level of security as a sturdy piece of wood that is encased in windows. Roll-down hurricane shutters can be used to insulate homes during storms. However, they can cause danger when they aren't secure enough and can take a long time to set up and remove. Another alternative is to use strips of self-stick rubber weather sealing that you cut to fit your window dimensions. The seals can be pressed down to seal gaps that allow cold air while allowing warm air to escape. If you're looking for a longer-term solution, think about installing energy efficient windows that have low-e coatings, which allow the sun's radiant heat to penetrate but block the transfer of other kinds of heat. Also, think about a draft stopper, which is a simple fabric tube that sits on the bottom of your window, and stops cold air from getting in. These alternatives are more expensive than a full window replacement, but they will lower your energy costs in the long term. Saves Money While it may seem expensive to board up windows in the event of an emergency, you'll 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 your home or commercial property. You will also see a reduction in your winter energy bills. Boards are not expensive and readily available, making them a good choice for temporary protection against storms. Before you can use them as protection for your home, you will need to measure every window. Make sure you measure horizontally inside the trim and vertically from the bottom of the top trim to the sill. Add eight inches to the width and height of both to ensure a snug fit and to allow for expansion during a hurricane. A saw is needed to cut the OSB or plywood and drills are required for mounting. For the best results, you must install the boards prior to when the storm is predicted and then leave them in place until the conditions are safe. A professional boarding up company can do the job faster and more efficiently than someone trying to do it themselves. They employ hurricane clips instead of nails to secure the boards to your property, thus preventing any damage to the frames. They can also dismantle the boards when the storm has passed and restore your property back to its original condition. If you're a property owner for a commercial business and you have a window that is broken, it can be a major issue. It not only affects the appearance of your building, but it can also cause theft and other security issues. By boarding up windows that are broken, you will prevent criminals and opportunists from entering your property until the window is able to be replaced. It is also a good idea to secure vacant properties that you own. This is crucial to ensure your property is secure even when it is in use.