Boarding Up Windows and Doors Before a Storm Hits

Insuring your doors and windows prior to the storm hits can offer an effective protection against damage. You'll need several items to accomplish this.

First, measure the width and height of the window including the framing (not the trim or masonry). Note these measurements down so you don't forget them.

Preparation

It is best to cover your windows and doors before a storm or natural disaster. This will minimize property damage and reduce the chance of a fatality. It takes a lot of planning to board boarding up company near me windows. You must purchase and measure plywood boards, and you need to be aware of the exact dimensions of each window. It also takes time to cut the boards and install them properly. It is possible to speed up the process by starting the preparations when you learn of a storm approaching your area. You can avoid a stressful rush in the last minute and make it easier for both you and your staff.

Begin by listening to weather forecasters and following the guidelines laid out by your local government. The earlier you begin the process the better, as it gives you enough time to gather and store the needed materials without feeling pressured by a storm that is rapidly approaching. Depending on the severity of the storm, you might require huge quantities of plywood to cover all of your windows. Use a tape measure to determine the height and width of each window opening. Be sure to take into account the framing or trim that surrounds each window, as well as any sills that are extended in the event that they are required.

Then, calculate the dimensions of the sheets of plywood you require by dividing the total window height and width by 2. For example, if the width of your window is 16 inches, the thickness of each sheet should be 8 inches. If your exterior is made of wood, drill pilot holes in the plywood sheet to ensure it is aligned with the window frame below. This will prevent splitting when you screw in the screws.

To make sure that the window's opening is greater than the size of a single sheet of plywood can accommodate, cut two separate sheets that are each half the size of the desired window and set them side-byside on the wall. Cut a piece 2 by 4 inches (5.1 10.2 cm) 10.2 cm) of lumber to the length of the connecting edge between the sheets of plywood and place it on top of the seam. Then, screw 2.25 in (5.7cm) screws into the plywood sheet and through the bracing to join the two together.

Materials

To ensure safety and security ensure safety and security, use only materials that are strong and won't break or splinter in high winds. The most popular material used to encase windows is plywood, which is inexpensive easily available and simple to work with. It is essential to choose plywood that is specifically designed for exterior use (CDX) for added strength and is free of knots and warping. Hurricane or storm shutters are more durable options. They can be installed over existing windows and offer better protection against shattered glasses and storms.

Once you've identified the location of the window openings you can determine the height and width to determine the amount of plywood you will require. Then make use of a power drill to make pilot holes into the plywood sheets at 2-inch intervals around each window. Before attaching the plywood, identify and mark the locations of studs on the wall to ensure the boards will be fastened securely. If your home is constructed with wood siding, search for nailheads that could indicate the locations of studs. Otherwise, you can probe for stud positions using your drill. Be sure to drive the screws into the framing, not the trim or sheathing; a plywood panel attached only to these materials could become a hazard in strong winds.

If your window is too big for one sheet of plywood, you can cut two pieces of plywood that are half of the size needed and join them using two by four inches of lumber. Label each plywood piece to let you know what window it will be covering.

Use corrosion-resistant screws long enough to penetrate the sheathing and the studs to attach the plywood panels to the wall. Try to insert the screws into the studs in a way they're about half the depth of the thickness of the plywood however, be cautious not to go too deep and harm the underlying structure of your house.

In addition to securing your windows, you should also put up a "No Trespassing" sign on the property and consider installing polycarbonate security glazing like DefenseLite over your windows. These transparent shields are bonded to existing glass and shield your windows and door. They are virtually impervious to breakage and can deter burglars from attempting to break into your home.

Installation

If you live in or are planning to move to a place susceptible to hurricanes and you are worried about the threat of storms, it's best to board up all your windows and doors. This project can be completed quickly and efficiently, however only if the boards are cut, measured and labeled prior to the storm arrives.

You'll need additional tools which include a drill, a saw (or boarding up windows and doors an hammer that has nails in the event that you don't have the power tool), a level, gloves, and safety glasses. It's an excellent idea for the plywood to be coated with sealant to make it waterproof.

Start by measuring the height and width of each window opening, then cutting your plywood sheets so they fit within the frames with a 4-inch overlap on all sides. This is best done on the spot since you will have more control over the exact dimensions.

Cut the boards to the desired size using a circular or track saw. Once installed you'll need to sand down all of them. Once your boards are in place, screw the 3-inch stainless hanger screws made of steel into the framing posts around each window. Use washers to secure each bolt and the wing nuts. Make sure that each screw penetrates the studs by at least 2 inches to ensure the board is strong enough to withstand high winds.

If you are building with concrete blocks, you can connect the plywood using pan head screws that are galvanized and driven into the overlapping edges of the panels to the masonry or cinder block. You'll also have to drill pilot holes in the masonry, and then insert corrosion-resistant screws into the holes. This task can take boarding up services to three hours for each window. It is important to start the work as soon as a hurricane warning has been issued. This will allow you enough time to complete the project before the storm hits.

Maintenance

It is recommended to put up a security barrier on your windows and boarding up windows and doors doors before a severe storm. This will allow you to avoid costly repairs and protect your home from further damage that could be caused by rain, wind flying objects, and other elements.

Having the right materials can make the boarding up process easier and faster to complete. It is important to measure each window precisely. This will ensure the OSB or plywood fits well and will not be able to slide off easily. If you're using plywood, make sure you use exterior grade sheets and think about adding an extra layer of protection.

After you have the plywood or OSB measured, mark the spots where screws will go into the board. Use a drill to predrill holes at 12-inch intervals in the plywood. This will allow you to safely fasten the boards with hanger bolts during an emergency or disaster. Once the storm has passed and you've received the all-clear by authorities in your area, remove the hanger bolts but keep them in place for future emergency situations.

The next step is to install the plywood panels above the windows. Be prepared to work in pairs. If you're using plywood make sure you sand the edges so they are smooth and won't scratch paint or trim. Then make use of corrosion-resistant screws join the plywood with the pilot holes. If your home has shingles made of vinyl on it, attach the plywood directly to the shingles, and not to the wood framing.

Apart from keeping out rain and other weather elements, a boarded-up window is also a great way to prevent burglary. Burglars are more likely to attack a building that has a locked or broken window. Additionally, they are more likely to break in a store with a boarded-boarding up windows window than one with. This is something that retail business owners should consider very seriously.