The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
The idea of boarding up windows is a method to shield your home from potential storm damage. However, it is an labor-intensive job and should be done with the help of someone else.
Before you start the process, measure your windows precisely to ensure that the plywood fits perfectly. Also, make sure that you have a circular saw and power drill to cut the boards.
Seals Windows
It is a tried and true method to protect your home from storm. It's a simple procedure that requires only a few tools and a bit of time to complete however, it can be extremely effective.
The main purpose of boarding windows is to create an physical barrier to the glass that prevents it from breaking due to debris during a hurricane or other severe weather event. The boarding is usually made of plywood and is fixed to the frame of the window by nail or screw. Other materials, such as zip ties or duct tape, are also a possibility to board windows. However, plywood is inexpensive and simple to use which makes it an extremely popular choice.
Find the height and width for each window prior to you begin the boarding procedure. This will allow you to cut a 5/8-inch thickness of exterior-grade plywood (OSB) or oriented-strand board. Make sure that the dimensions of the plywood match the dimensions 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 for expansion.
After the plywood has been cut 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 stores. They are designed to attach directly to the studs that are on the exterior of a home. The holes in the plywood must be drilled to match the diameter of the hanger bolts and should be spaced at least 2 inches apart on all sides. When the storm has passed and the plywood has been removed, the bolts can be removed from the studs.
It is important to start the process of boarding up as soon as you can, once a hurricane watch is issued. This will help you ensure that you have sufficient plywood to secure your home and give you the chance to identify any problems before the storm arrives. The entire process should take about 30 minutes per window, and should be completed by two people.
Preventing break-ins
One of the primary reasons property owners consider boarding up windows is because it serves as a deterrent to burglars. Burglars usually target homes they know they can break into, and if they see that a house has been boarded up, they'll be more cautious about trying to break into it. The windows that are boarded up prevent burglars from being able to see inside the house. This is an important security advantage.
The act of boarding up windows is a good way to protect your property from weather. If you live in a region which is susceptible to severe weather, boarding up windows can help keep your property safe from damage. By covering windows with plywood you can prevent rain, snow, and other debris from getting in. This will save you money on costly repairs and replacements.
When you're deciding on the best way to frame your windows, it's crucial to select the appropriate materials. Exterior-grade plywood is usually the best choice as it will hold up against the elements. You will need a drill for drilling holes in the plywood, along with screws, caulk or putty to seal the holes. Make sure you measure the window openings before you begin and mark the locations where screws will be positioned. You should also write down which plywood panel is for each window or door. Once you have the necessary materials, it is time to begin boarding your windows.
While boarding windows up can prevent burglaries, this method isn't foolproof. Even though service for boarding up windows can be difficult to put up, it is possible that burglars will find a way around it. If you are relying solely on blocking your windows, you might overlook other security measures which could safeguard your property.
One of the most effective ways to prevent burglaries is by installing security fencing. This is a great solution for vacant homes and can be a complement to the idea of boarding your windows. However, this method is not suitable for residential or commercial buildings which want to maintain the curb appeal.
Reduces Heat Loss
Boarding up your windows will not just protect your home from burglars, but it can also cut down on the amount of heat that escapes from your windows. About two-thirds of the heat loss from a home or building is due to inefficient windows. This happens through the combination of convection, radiation, and conduction. Radiation occurs when warm air contacts cold window glass, which causes the glass to emit heat away from your body and your home. Convection is when hot air rises and colder air enters to replace it. Conduction is the way that heat moves through the window frame, which is typically made of metal.
Breaking windows can be a major issue for many businesses and homeowners, whether it is due to severe weather or vandalism. The boarded-up window will hide any jagged or rough edges, and allow you to keep your business open while the window is repaired. This is particularly important for commercial buildings that can be vulnerable to theft by thieves who don't want to be observed through windows.
There are several alternatives to plywood boards to protect against storm damage however they don't offer the same level of security as a solid piece of wood that covers windows. For instance, roll-down hurricane shutters are popular for insulating homes in storms, but they can pose a risk to safety if they aren't securely anchored and take time to install and remove. You can also use self-sticking rubber weather seals that you can cut to the exact dimensions of your windows. The seals can be pressed in place to close gaps that let in cold air while allowing warm air to escape.
Consider installing windows that are energy efficient with low-e coated glass that allows sun's warmth to pass through and block other forms of heat transfer. Also, consider draft stoppers which is a basic fabric tube that sits in the bottom of your window, and stops cold air from entering. These options are more expensive than a full window replacement, but they will help reduce your energy costs in the long run.
Savings on Money
While it may seem expensive to put up a window in an emergency, you'll save money over the long term. By sealing your windows and doors with boards, you reduce drafts that cause heat to escape from your home or commercial space. As a result, you will see lower energy costs in the wintertime.
Boards are inexpensive and easily accessible and are a good option for temporary protection against storms. Before you can use them as protection for your home you must measure every window. Take measurements horizontally within the trim and vertically between the bottom of the top trim and the sill. Add eight inches to the width and height of the trim to ensure a secure fitting and allow for expansion in a storm. A saw is needed to cut the OSB or plywood and drills are required to mount the boards. For the best results, you should install the boards prior to when a storm is expected and wait to remove them until the conditions are safe.
A professional boarding-up company will complete the job quicker and more efficiently than a person trying to do it on their own. The professionals will use hurricane clip instead of nails to join the boards to your property, preventing any damage to the frames. They can also remove the boards when the storm has passed and return your property to its original condition.
A damaged window can be a major issue for commercial property owners. It's not just ruining the appearance of your property but it can also cause burglaries 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 repaired.
It is also an excellent idea to secure vacant properties you own. Vacant properties are more likely to be targeted by squatters as well as are easily targets for arsonists, which is why this is an essential step to keep your property safe until it can be used again.