Why Boarding Up a Window Is a Good Idea
If you live in an area that's prone to severe weather, boarding up your windows and doors can reduce damage from the force of winds and projectile debris. This could also save you money on expensive window repairs and replacement costs.
Begin by measuring the height of each window frame. Make sure to include the framing, not only the trim and sheathing. Mark the stud locations to ensure an appropriate board attachment.
Safety
Boarding up windows protects property from vandalism and natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, and wildfires. This can also cut down on the necessity for replacement or repair of windows after such events. In order to board up a building it is necessary to buy and cut large quantities of plywood boards. It can be difficult to finish the task in a short time particularly if you are faced by a crisis or civil tensions. A badly executed last-minute board up can make your home or business vulnerable and cause more damage.
Criminals looking to make a profit frequently attack homes with smashed or broken glass, making an attack more likely. Window boarding can be an effective deterrent to criminals and protects valuable items in the home from theft. Boarding can also be used for home renovations when tools and construction materials pose a threat to windows.
Start by measuring the width and height of each window opening. Make sure to add at least one inch to each dimension since this will offer more protection against wind damage. After the dimensions have been established, make use of a saw to cut the plywood sheet to size. Wear safety goggles and gloves when cutting the plywood to avoid injuries. Next, you must identify and mark the stud locations to ensure proper board attachment. If you can, look for nailheads on the siding to mark stud locations. If none are available, make use of a drill and a bit to check the wall for studs. Once the studs have been discovered, screw through the plywood and into the framing, driving the screws at least 2 inches deep into the wood to ensure a solid anchor and to prevent splitting.
For homes built with masonry the procedure is a bit different. Instead of attaching the plywood directly onto the masonry, fix the panel to the window frame with four-inch barrel bolts spaced no more 16 inches apart. The shaft that slides on the bolt must fit into a hole drilled through the masonry. Use read more -resistant screws to stop the metal from corroding while drilling into masonry.
Damage Prevention
A window that is damaged by a storm is not just a way to provide a sense of security, but also prevents further property damage. This is particularly important for business owners who need to remain open during a storm or other natural disaster, as a broken window leaves the interior exposed to environmental debris, leaks, and robbery. A professional board-up service can safeguard your storefront and other commercial properties quickly and easily from further damage.
In residential settings windows that are damaged pose a security issue as well. Unattended windows could allow burglars to enter the home and take valuable items or cause further damage to the structure. This could result in additional loss of property and higher insurance rates. A professional service for board-ups can protect your home against unauthorized entry, and also keep your belongings safe when you are away.
It's also important to know that a professional can quickly and easily repair or replace your damaged windows once the emergency board-up procedures have been completed. This way, you can reduce the risk of liability and return to your normal life sooner.
If you intend to do the work yourself, a handyman or other skilled repair professional can advise you on the most suitable materials to use and provide you with the tools needed to complete the task. For instance, choosing the correct type of plywood is crucial to ensure that your windows are safe from further damage. It is also recommended to drill holes in the plywood panels for screws during calm weather. This will make the procedure faster if a warning for storms is issued.
It is tempting to use duct-tape for securing the plywood. However, it is better to purchase stainless-steel bolts that will prevent your windows from being blown out during high-wind events. A handyman can assist you to install them during a calm weather period, so that they will be ready for use in the event of a storm. This will save you time and money in the long term.
Temporary Security
In addition to protecting your property from weather-related damage By boarding up windows, you can help to keep out intruders at bay. This is especially crucial in the aftermath of natural disasters or a serious accident, such as an explosion or a car crash. By immediately boarding your home or office, you can prevent further damage and shield yourself from responsibility while repairs are completed.
During a civil disturbance or riot, criminals can take advantage of the chaos and infiltrate homes and businesses to take valuables. Boarding up your property with plywood is a simple and effective way to deter looters and other intruders who aren't welcome until the situation calms down.
Window boarding up not just prevents damage but also offers privacy and peace-of-mind to homeowners and business owners. Boarding up your home or business helps you stay out of being watched by others and makes it harder for burglars to attack the location. For business owners, boarding up your property is a critical security measure that can protect your assets and customers until the commercial glass repair service can arrive.
If your property has been damaged by vandalism or an accident, you can count EJH to secure your home or business until permanent repairs are completed. We provide emergency board-up services for commercial and residential properties. We also repair roofs walls, exterior walls and storefront damage. Call us for more information or to request an estimate.
It is essential to have a plan in place for extreme weather events, regardless of whether you live in hurricane or tornado territory. Emergency boarding protects your home from further damage, and serves as an interim solution until you can replace the windows. If you're not sure how to secure your home on your own, you might consider hiring Taskers. Taskers have the experience and tools to secure your home's entry points until permanent repairs are completed. Using Airtasker is simple and quick posting your task, go through the profiles of Taskers and their offers, and then choose the best one for you.
Save Money
The cost of boarding windows is less than the cost to replace or repair damaged glass. In addition, it will aid in preventing water intrusion as well as other expensive damage to the structure of your home or business. This can help save the cost of insurance claims and also reduce the disruption of daily activities until repairs can be completed.
It is crucial to board up your windows as early as possible when a storm is predicted. This will ensure that you have the proper plywood to cover your windows prior to the storm arrives. If you put off the project for too long, the plywood could be out of stock at the local hardware store and you will need to pay higher prices for it.
Plywood is readily accessible and affordable and is a great choice for boarding your windows. However, you must choose the highest quality plywood available to ensure maximum security for your property. It is recommended to use 5/8-inch thick exterior grade plywood or OSB to protect your windows from the hammer of the wind and flying debris.
Before installing the plywood you might need to drill pilot holes in the frame. Make sure that the pilot holes are evenly spaced around the frame. This will stop the wood from splitting when you insert the screw. In addition, it's a good idea to add washers of metal on each screw to keep the wood from breaking and weakening.
It is possible to board your windows on your own, however it requires a lot of knowledge and experience. This is a job that should be done in conditions of calm so that you can do the job efficiently and safely.
If you're looking to save time, you should consider hiring a professional window boarding up near me service. These services can provide the tools needed to install the plywood. They also be able to properly install the plywood and offer additional suggestions for protecting your home from the damaging effects of a severe storm.