The Full Guide To Boarding Up Windows And Doors
Boarding Up Windows and Doors Before a Storm Hits
Before a storm hits and your windows are smashed, boarding them up and doors will protect you from damage. To do this, you need to have a few things in your desk.
Take measurements of the height and width of the window, including the frame (not the trim or masonry that surrounds the window). Note these measurements so you don't forget.
Preparation
It is recommended to put up a cover your windows and doors before a storm or natural disaster. This will help prevent damage to property and reduce the loss of life. Window board-up requires an extensive amount of preparation, like purchasing and measuring plywood boards and determining the exact size of each window to be covered. It takes time to cut and install the boards in a proper manner. 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 at the last minute and make it easier for you and your employees.
Start by listening to the 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 collect and store the necessary materials without feeling strained by a rapidly approaching storm. Depending on the severity of the imminent storm, you might require huge quantities of plywood to cover all your windows. To ensure that you have the correct size, use a tape measure to determine the height and width of each window opening. Be sure to include the trim or framing around each window, as well as any extended ledges if necessary.
Then, calculate the size of the plywood sheets you require by dividing your window's total height and width by 2. If your window has a width of 16 inches, then the thickness of each sheet is 8 inches. If you have a wood exterior, drill pilot holes into the plywood sheet and align them with the frame of your window to prevent splitting when screwing into the screws.
If you have a bigger window than a single sheet of plywood is able to handle cut two sheets plywood that are each half as large as the desired window. Place them side-by-side on the wall. Then, cut a piece of 2 by 4 inches (5.1 by 10.2 cm) lumber to the length of the connecting edges of the plywood sheets and place it on top of the seam. Then, screw 2.25 in (5.7cm) screws into the plywood sheet and into the bracing to join the two together.
Materials
To ensure security and safety, only use materials that are sturdy and will not break or splinter in strong winds. The most commonly used material to secure windows is plywood, which is cheap easily available and simple to work with. It's important to choose plywood that is specifically designed for exterior use (CDX) to ensure strength, and free of knots and warping. Storm shutters, also known as hurricane shutters, are a more durable option. They can be erected over windows that are already in place and offer greater protection against broken glasses and storms.
Once you've determined the location of the window openings, you can measure the height and the width to determine the amount of plywood you'll require. Then you can use a power drill to create pilot holes into the plywood sheets at two-inch intervals around each window. Mark the studs on the wall before attaching the plywood to ensure the boards are secured. If your home has wood siding, search for nailheads that might indicate the locations of studs. You can also use your drill to find the locations of studs. The screws should be driven into the framing, not into the trim or sheathing. A plywood panel attached to these materials alone could become a safety hazard in the event of severe winds.
If your window is too big for one sheet of plywood, cut two pieces of plywood that are half of the size needed and join them using two by four inches of lumber. Label each piece of plywood to let you know which window it will be covering.
Use corrosion-resistant screws long enough to penetrate the sheathing as well as the studs to attach the plywood panels to the wall. To secure the plywood panels to the wall, use corrosion-resistant screws that are long enough to penetrate both the sheathing and the studs.
You should also think about installing polycarbonate security glass like DefenseLite on your primary windows. These transparent shields adhere to existing glazing to protect your doors and windows. They are virtually indestructible, preventing criminals from breaking in.
Installation
If you live in a region that is prone to hurricanes or plan to move to one the best option is to put up a board on your doors and windows prior to the threat of a storm approaches. 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 also require other tools, including a drill (or a hammer and nails for those who don't own a power drill), tape, a saw, a level, gloves and safety glasses. It's also a good idea for the plywood to be sprayed with sealant to make it waterproof.
Begin by measuring the height and width of each window's opening, and then cutting your plywood sheets to ensure they fit inside the frames, with an overlap of 4 inches on all sides. It's best to do this on the spot, as it gives you more control over the precise dimensions of the plywood.
Cut the boards to the size you want using a circular or track saw. After installation, you will need to sand all of them. After your boards are in place put the 3 inch stainless hanger screws made of steel into the framing posts around each window. Use washers to secure each bolt as well as wing nuts. Make sure that each screw penetrates at least 2 inches into the studs, to ensure that the boarding is sturdy enough to withstand high winds.
If you're building with concrete block, you can attach the plywood to the structure using galvanized pan-head screws driven through the edges that overlap of each panel into bricks or cinder blocks. You'll also have to drill pilot holes into the masonry, and then screw corrosion-resistant screws through the holes. This project can take anywhere from three to four hours per window, which is why it's essential to begin the process as soon as you hear that a hurricane watch has been issued. This will allow you enough time to complete your project before the storm hits.
Maintenance
If you're a homeowner, or business owner, it is essential to have the necessary materials to secure windows and doors ahead of a severe storm. This will save you money on repairs and shield your home from further damage resulting from rain, wind, flying debris and other elements that could impact windows.
The appropriate materials will make boarding up easier and quicker. It is crucial to precisely measure the windows. This will ensure that the OSB or plywood fits well, and that it will not be able to slide off easily. If you're using plywood, be sure you use sheets made of exterior grade, and consider adding a second protective finish.
Once you have the OSB or plywood taken measurements, mark the locations where the screws will go into the board. Then, use a drill to pre-drill holes into the plywood at intervals of 12 inches. This will allow you to safely fix the boards using hanger bolts during an emergency or in the event of a disaster. After the storm has gone away and you've received all-clear from authorities in your area, remove the hanger bolts, but keep them in place for any future emergencies.
The next step is to install the plywood panels on top of the windows. Be prepared to work in pairs. If More suggestions are using plywood, sand the edges to smooth them so that they don't scratch paint or damage trim. Then, you can attach the frame to the plywood with corrosion-resistant screws that fit into the pilot holes. If your home is lined with vinyl shingles it is recommended to nail the plywood to the shingles, not the wood framing underneath.
Apart from keeping out the elements of weather and water elements, a boarded-up window is also an effective way to prevent burglary. The burglars will be more likely to target a structure that has a broken window or one that's not secured. Also, they are more likely to break in the store with a boarded up window than one without. If you're a retail business owner, this is something you should take seriously.