Comprehensive List Of Boarding Up Windows And Doors Dos And Don'ts
Boarding Up Windows and Doors Before a Storm Hits
Insuring your windows and doorways before an event can give you an effective protection against damage. You will need several items to accomplish this.
First, measure the window's height and width, including the framing (not the surrounding trim or masonry). Note these measurements down to ensure that you don't lose them.
Preparation
It is recommended to put up a board on your windows and doors before a storm or natural disaster. This will limit damage to property and decrease the chance of dying. Window board-up requires a lot of preparation, such as purchasing and measuring plywood boards as well as identifying the exact size of each window to cover. It also takes time to cut the boards and then install them correctly. Fortunately it is possible to make the process made simpler by preparing when you first hear of a storm that could be coming in your area. You can avoid stress in the last minute, and make it easier for you and your employees.
Begin by listening to forecasters for weather and follow the guidelines provided by your local government. If you start earlier in the process, you will have more time to collect the materials and store them without feeling rushed by a storm that is about to hit. Depending on the severity of the pending event, you may need large quantities of plywood to cover all of your windows. Use a tape measure to determine the width and height of each window opening. Be sure to consider the trim or framing surrounding each window as well as any sills that are extended when applicable.
Then, calculate the size of the plywood sheets you need by dividing the total window width and height by 2. If your window measures a width of 16 inches, the thickness of each sheet is 8 inches. If your exterior is made of wood, drill pilot holes in the plywood sheet so that they align with the window frame below. This will reduce the possibility of splitting when you screw in the screws.
For a window opening that is larger than what one sheet of plywood can accommodate, cut two separate sheets that are each half the size of the intended window and lay them side-by-side on the wall. Then cut a piece 2 by 4 inches (5.1 by 10.2 cm) lumber to the length of the connecting edges of the sheets of plywood and lay it over the seam. Then, screw 2.25 in (5.7cm) screws into the plywood sheet, and then through the bracing to join the two together.
Materials
To ensure safety and security ensure safety and security, use only materials that are sturdy and won't break or shatter in high winds. The most commonly used material to board up windows is plywood, which is affordable accessible and simple to work with. It's important to choose plywood that is specifically designed for exterior use (CDX) to ensure strength and is free of knots and warping. Storm shutters, also known as hurricane shutters, are a more durable option. They can be put in over existing windows and offer better protection against glass breakage and weather conditions that can be severe.
Once you have identified the location of the window openings, you can determine the height and width to determine the amount of plywood you will require. Use a power drill to make pilot holes into the plywood sheets around each window at intervals of two inches. Before attaching the plywood, identify and mark the stud locations on the wall to ensure the boards are anchored securely. If your home has wood siding, look for nailheads that may indicate the locations of studs. If not, you can look for stud positions using your drill. Make sure you drive the screws into the framing rather than the sheathing or trim. A plywood panel that is fastened to these materials could be a hazard in strong winds.
If the size of your window is too big for a single sheet of plywood, cut two separate pieces that are each the size you require. join them using 2 by 4 inches of lumber. Label each plywood panel so that you can identify which window it will be covering.
Make sure you use corrosion-resistant screws that are long enough to penetrate the sheathing and the studs to attach the plywood panels to your wall. To secure the plywood panels to the wall, use screws made of corrosion-resistant that are long enough to penetrate both the sheathing and the studs.
It is also worth considering installing polycarbonate security glass similar to DefenseLite on your windows that are primary. These transparent shields adhere to existing glazing to safeguard your windows and doors and are virtually impossible to break, preventing criminals from gaining entry.
Installation
If you live or are planning to move to a region that is prone to hurricanes and are worried about the storm you should consider boarding up all your windows and doors. This project can be completed quickly and efficiently, but only if the plywood sheets are measured, cut and labeled prior to the storm hits.
You'll need additional tools such as drills, saws (or an hammer that has nails in the event that you don't have a power tool), the level, gloves and safety glasses. It's a good idea coat the plywood with sealant in order to make it waterproof.
Begin by taking measurements of the width and height of each window opening, then cutting your plywood sheets to ensure they fit inside the frames with an overlap of 4 inches on all sides. This is best done on the spot since you will can control the exact dimensions.
Cut the boards to the size you want with a track or circular saw. After installation you'll need to sand all of them. Once the boards are set put the 3 inch stainless hanger screws made of steel into the framing posts around each window. Use washers on each bolt and wings nuts to ensure they are secured. Be sure that each screw is inserted at least 2 inches into the studs to ensure that the boarding is strong enough to withstand high winds.
If you are building with concrete blocks, you can join the plywood with pan head screws that are galvanized and that are driven into the overlapping edges of the panels into the masonry or cinder block. It is also necessary to drill pilot holes into the masonry, and then screw corrosion resistant screws into the holes. The project could take about three hours for each period. It is important to start the work as soon when a hurricane warning has been issued. This will give you time to finish the project prior to the time when the storm is expected to hit.
Maintenance
It is recommended to secure your doors and windows prior to a severe storm. This will help you avoid costly repairs and protect your home from further damage caused by wind, rain debris, flying objects and other elements.
The right materials can make boarding up more efficient and speedier. It is crucial to measure each window precisely. This will ensure that the plywood or OSB fits snugly and won't come off easily. If you're using plywood ensure that you are using exterior-grade sheets and think about adding an extra layer of protection.
Mark the locations where screws are to be put into the board after you have measured the OSB or plywood. Then, you can use a drill to pre-drill holes in the plywood at 12-inch intervals. This allows you to securely attach the boards to hanger bolts during an emergency or in the event of a disaster. When the storm has passed and the local authorities have given you the all-clear, remove the bolts but keep them in case of emergency.
The next step is to put the plywood panels on top of the windows. This is a job for two people So, be prepared before starting. If you're using plywood, make sure you sand the edges to ensure they're smooth and won't scratch your paint or trim. Then, you can attach the frame to the plywood with corrosion-resistant screws that fit into the pilot holes. If your home has shingles made of vinyl it, then attach the plywood directly to the shingles, and not to the wood framing.
Apart from keeping out the elements of weather and water elements, a boarding up window is also an effective method to stop burglaries. Burglars will target a building with a damaged window or one that's not secured. Also, emergency boarding up service are more likely to break in a store with a boarded-up window than one with. If you're a retail business owner, this is a matter you must take seriously.