The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows

Boarding up windows is a way to protect your property from damage caused by storms. However, it is labor-intensive and must be done with the help of a third party.

Before beginning the process, measure your windows precisely to ensure that the plywood is sized correctly. Make sure you have the power drill and circular saw to cut the boards.

Seals Windows

The practice of boarding up windows is a tried-and-true method to protect your home in the event of an emergency. It’s a relatively simple process that requires a few tools and a bit of time, but it can be extremely efficient.

The primary reason for boarding up windows is to create a physical barrier over the glass, which stops it from breaking from debris in the event of a hurricane or another severe weather event. The boarding is usually made from plywood, and is secured to the frame of the window using nails or screws. Other materials, such as zip ties or duct tape, can be used to affix the boarding to windows. However plywood is cheap and easy to work with which makes it an ideal option.

Take measurements of the width and height of each window prior to when you begin the boarding procedure. Use this information to cut a 5/8-inch thick exterior grade plywood or oriented string board (OSB). Make sure that the dimensions of the plywood meet the size of the window frame and leave one inch. A gap of 4 inches between the edges of the plywood and the window frame to allow expansion.

After the plywood is cut to size, screw it into the frame using hanger bolts as well as nuts. These bolts are available in a variety of hardware stores and home improvement stores. They are designed to connect directly to the studs on the house. The plywood holes should be drilled to a diameter that is equal to the hanger bolts and spaced apart by at least 2 inches on all sides. After the storm has passed and the plywood has been removed and the hanger bolts are removed, they can be removed and reattached to the studs of the house.

It is important to start the process of boarding up whenever you can once a hurricane watch is issued. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to secure your home and give you a chance to find any problems before the storm strikes. The entire process should take approximately 30 minutes for each window, and should be performed by two people.

Preventing 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 may think twice before attempting to gain entry. Windows that are screened off also stop burglars from being able inspect the inside of the house, which is another important security benefit.

A great way to safeguard your property is by board up windows. 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 snow, rain and other debris from entering. This will save you money on costly repairs and replacements.

It is crucial to choose the appropriate materials when you are deciding which window to board. Exterior-grade plywood is usually the best choice, since it can withstand the elements. You will require drills for drilling holes into the plywood as well as screws caulk, putty or caulk for sealing the holes. Be sure to measure the window openings before you begin, and then mark where screws will be placed. Also, note which plywood panel goes with each window or door. Once you have all the materials, it’s time to put up the windows.

While boarding up your windows can help protect against burglaries, it’s not foolproof. Even though the boarding can be difficult to install, it’s possible that burglars will find ways around it. In addition, if you only rely on boarding your windows, you may overlook other security measures that could enhance your security.

Installing a security fence is one of the best ways to prevent burglaries. This is an excellent choice for vacant properties and can be an excellent complement to boarding your windows. But, this option is not the best choice for commercial or residential structures that want to maintain a level of curb appeal.

Reduces Heat Loss

Boarding up your windows will not only keep your home safe from burglars, but it can also reduce the amount heat that escapes from your windows. Window glass that is not efficient is responsible for two-thirds of the heat loss in homes or buildings. Convection, radiation, and conduction are all involved. Radiation occurs when warm windows glass contacts 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 usually constructed of steel.

Breaking windows can pose a problem for homeowners and businesses alike whether because of extreme weather or vandalism. Boarding up a window conceals any rough or jagged edges and lets you keep your business open until the window is repaired. This is particularly crucial for commercial spaces, which can be vulnerable to robbery attempts by thieves looking to avoid being seen through the window.

There are a few alternatives to plywood boards for storm damage protection however, they do not offer the same level of security as a sturdy piece of wood that is encased in a window. Roll-down hurricane shutters are used to insulate homes during storms. However, they can pose a safety risk in the event that they are not securely secured and require time to set up and remove. Another option is to use strips of self-stick rubber weather sealing that you cut to fit the window’s dimensions. The seals can be pressed in place to close gaps that allow cold air and allow warm air to escape.

Consider installing boarding up basildon -efficient windows with low-e coated glass that allows the sun’s heat to flow through and block other forms of heat transfer. Also, consider draft stoppers which is a basic fabric tube that is placed at the bottom of your window to prevent cold air from entering. These options can be more costly than a full window replacement, but they’ll help you save money on energy in the long term.

Savings on Money

Although it might seem costly to put up a window in the event of an emergency, you will actually save money over the long term. By securing your windows and doors with boards, you reduce drafts that allow heat to escape from your home or commercial property. You can also expect a reduction in the cost of heating your home during winter.

Boards are readily available and inexpensive and are a good choice for temporary protection against the ravages of a storm. However, before you can use them to safeguard your property, you need to carefully measure every window. Measure horizontally inside 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 snug fit and allow for expansion during the event of a storm. A saw is needed to cut the OSB or plywood, and drills are required to mount the boards. Install the boards prior to the storm, and then remove them when the weather is stable.

A reputable boarding-up service will be able to complete the job faster and more effectively than someone who is trying to do it on their own. These professionals use hurricane clips instead of nails to join the boards to your property, thus preventing any damage to the frames. After the storm, they’ll dismantle all the boards and restore your property to its original state.

If you are 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 property but also lead to thefts and other security concerns. The act of boarding up windows that are broken will keep thieves and opportunists out of your property until you can replace it.

You should also secure any vacant property you own. This is important to ensure that your property is safe when it is being used.