The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
Boarding up windows is a method to shield your home from damage caused by storms. It's a daunting job that requires the assistance of another person.
Take measurements of your windows to ensure that the plywood will fit perfectly. Make sure you have the circular saw and power drill to cut the boards.
Seals Windows
It is a tried and tested method to shield your property from a 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 one primary goal that is to stop the glass from breaking because of debris during a storm or other severe weather. The boarding is usually made from plywood, and is secured to the window frame with either a screw or nail. There are other materials that could be used to board up windows, such as duct tape and zip ties, however plywood is affordable and easy to work with and is a great option.
To begin the boarding process, measure the height and width of each window. Use this information to cut a sheet of 5/8-inch thick exterior grade plywood or oriented Strand Board (OSB). Make sure that the dimensions of the plywood meet the dimensions of the window frame and leave one inch. There is 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 designed to attach to the studs of a house and are available at most hardware stores or home improvement stores. The holes in the plywood should be drilled to correspond with 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, the hanger bolts can be removed and unscrewed from the studs of the house.
It is crucial to begin the process of boarding up as soon as 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 per window and should be completed by two people.
Preventing break-ins
Boarding up windows can be a great deterrent for burglars. Burglars tend to target properties that they know they can break into and, if they notice a property has been boarded up, they will think twice about trying to enter the property. Windows that are screened off also stop burglars from having the ability to view inside the home and gain another security benefit.
A good way to protect the property is to board up windows. If you live in a place that is prone severe weather, it is advisable to board up windows to safeguard your home. By covering windows with plywood you can block snow, rain and other debris from getting in. This will save you money on expensive repairs and replacements.
It is important to select the right materials when choosing what to use for the boarding of your windows. The best option is exterior grade plywood, which can be able to withstand the elements. You will also require drills to create holes in the plywood, as well as screws and putty or caulk to close the holes. Before you begin, be sure to measure the openings in your windows and mark where the screws will be. Also, note down the plywood panel that is intended for each window or door. Once you have all the materials, it is time to begin boarding your windows.
While boarding up your windows can help to stop burglaries, it is not foolproof. Even though the boarding can be difficult to install, it is possible for burglars find a way around it. If you rely solely on blocking your windows, you may overlook other security measures that can protect your home.
One of the most effective methods to deter burglaries is installing security fencing. This is a great solution for vacant properties and could be a complement to boarding your windows. This method is not suitable for residential or commercial structures which want to preserve the curb appeal.
Reduces Heat Loss
Boarding up your windows will not only protect your home from burglars, but can also reduce the amount heat that escapes your windows. Inefficient window glass is responsible for about two-thirds the heat loss in a building or home. This happens through the combination of radiation, convection and conduction. Radiation occurs when warm windows glass contacts cold air, which causes it to radiate heat away. Convection happens when hot air rises and colder air flows in to replace it. And conduction is the process of transferring heat through the window's frame, which is often composed of steel.
Broken windows can be a problem for many businesses and homeowners, whether it is due to extreme weather or vandalism. The act of boarding up windows hides any rough or jagged edges and allows you to keep your business open until the window is repaired. This is particularly important for commercial spaces that are susceptible to robbery attempts by thieves looking to avoid being seen through 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. For instance roll-down hurricane shutters can be popular for insulating homes during storms, but they can create a safety hazard when they aren't properly secured and take time to put up and take down. There are also self-stick rubber weather seals you can cut to the exact measurements of your windows. The seals can be pressed into place to seal gaps that let in cold air while allowing warm air to escape.
If you're looking for a longer-term solution, consider installing energy efficient windows that have low-e coatings that allow the sun's radiant heat to flow through but block the transfer of other forms of heat. Also, think about draft stoppers that is a simple fabric tube that is placed at the bottom of your window to prevent cold air from getting in. These options may be more expensive than a complete window replacement, but they can aid in reducing your energy bills in the long term.
Saves Money
While boarding up windows might seem like a costly service to provide in a crisis, it actually saves you money over the long term. By sealing your doors and windows with boards, you can reduce drafts that cause heat to escape from your home or commercial space. You can also expect a reduction in your winter energy costs.
Boards are inexpensive and easily available which makes them a great choice for temporary protection against storms. Before you can use them as protection for your property you'll need to take measurements for each 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 height and width of both to ensure a snug fitting and allow for expansion in a storm. A saw is required to cut the OSB or plywood, and a drill is needed for mounting. Install the boards before a storm and take them off when the weather is safe.
A reputable boarding up business can do the job faster and more efficiently than anyone trying to do it on their own. These professionals will use hurricane clips instead of nails to attach the boards to the property, preventing damage to the frames. After the storm, they'll remove all the boards and return your property back to its original condition.
A broken window can be a major issue for commercial property owners. It's not just ruining the appearance of your property but can also trigger burglaries and other security issues. By boarding up windows that are broken, you will stop criminals and opportunists from entering your property until the window can be repaired.
It is also recommended to put up a fence around vacant properties that you own. The properties that are vacant are more likely to be targeted by squatters as well as are easy targets for arsonists, therefore this is a crucial step for keeping your property secure until it is used again.