Boarding Up Windows and Doors Before a Storm Hits

The act of boarding up your doors and windows prior to the storm hits can offer the protection you need against damage. You will need several items to accomplish this.

Take measurements of the height and width of the window, including the frame (not the trim or the masonry around the window). Note these measurements to ensure you don't forget them.

Preparation

It is always recommended to board up doors and windows before the storm or another natural disasters strike. This will minimize the risk of property damage and also reduce the chance of dying. The process of boarding up windows requires an extensive amount of preparation, like buying and measuring plywood boards, and identifying the exact size of each window to cover. It takes time to cut and install the boards in a proper manner. Fortunately, the process can be simplified by beginning the preparations when you first hear of a possible storm forming in your area. You can avoid a stressful rush in the last minute and make it easier for you and your employees.

Begin by listening to forecasters for weather and following guidelines issued by your local government. If you start earlier in the process, you'll be able to gather the materials and keep them in storage without being overwhelmed by a storm that is about to hit. You may need a large amount of plywood to cover your windows, according to the severity and intensity of the storm. Use a tape to measure the height and width of each window opening. Make sure to include the trim or framing around each window, as well as any ledges that are extended, if appropriate.

Then, calculate the size of the plywood sheets you need by dividing your window's total 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 pilots 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.

If you have a larger window than a single sheet of plywood is able to handle cut two sheets plywood that are half as big as the window you want to use. Then place 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 edge 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 then through the bracing to join the two together.

Materials

To ensure safety and security For security and safety, commercial boarding up service windows and doors should be done with only strong materials that will not break under pressure or splinter in high winds. Plywood is the most common material for boarding up windows. It is simple to use, inexpensive and readily available. It's important to choose plywood that is specifically exterior grade (CDX) service for boarding up windows added strength, and free of knots and warping. Storm shutters, also known as hurricane shutters, are a more durable option. They can be put in over windows that are already in place and offer better protection against shattered glasses and weather conditions that can be severe.

Once you've determined the location of the window openings you can measure the height and Boarding Up Windows And Doors the width to determine the amount of plywood you will require. Then, use 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 stud locations on the wall to ensure the boards are anchored securely. If your home is constructed with wood siding, search for nailheads that may indicate the location of studs. You can also use your drill to determine the locations of studs. Drive the screws into the framing, not into the trim or sheathing. A plywood panel attached only to these materials can be a danger to safety in the event of severe winds.

If the size of your window is too big for a single piece of plywood, cut two pieces which are each half the size you need and join them with 2 by 4 inch lumber. Label each piece of plywood to let you know which window it will be covering.

To attach the plywood panels to the wall, use corrosion-resistant screws that are long enough to penetrate both the sheathing as well as the studs. Aim to drive the screws into the studs so that they are about half the depth of the thickness of the plywood however, be cautious not to go too far and damage the underlying structure of your house boarding up service.

You should also think about installing polycarbonate security glass like DefenseLite on your primary windows. These transparent shields are secured to existing glass and shield your windows and doors. They are virtually impervious to breakage and can deter burglars from attempting to break into your home.

Installation

If you live in an area that is prone to hurricanes or are planning to move to one, the best way to protect yourself is to secure your doors and windows before the danger of a storm arrives. It's a project that can be accomplished quickly and efficiently, but only if you take the time to measure, cut and label your plywood panels prior to when the storm arrives.

You'll also require a few other tools, like a drill (or nails and a hammer for those who don't own a power drill), a saw, tape, gloves, a level and safety glasses. It's a good idea coat the plywood with sealant, as well, to make it waterproof.

Begin by measuring the height and width of each window's opening, and then cutting your plywood sheets so they fit within the frames with an overlap of 4 inches on all sides. It's best to do this on site, since it allows you to control the exact dimensions of the plywood.

Utilize a circular or track saw to cut the boards to the proper size Be aware that you'll have to sand them off once they're installed. After your 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. Make sure that every screw penetrates at least 2 inches into the studs, to ensure that the boarding is sturdy enough to withstand strong winds.

If you're building using concrete blocks, you can instead join the plywood to the building using galvanized pan-head screws driven through the edges that overlap of each piece into masonry blocks or cinder blocks. You'll also need to drill pilot holes in the masonry before screwing corrosion-resistant screws into the holes. This project can take three hours for each period. It is crucial to start the work as soon as an alert for hurricanes has been issued. This will give you enough time to complete the project prior to the time when the storm is expected to hit.

Maintenance

If you're a homeowner, or business owner, it is essential to have the necessary materials to secure windows and doors in advance of a severe storm. This can save you money on repairs and protect your home from further damage caused by rain, wind, flying debris, and Boarding Up Windows And Doors other elements that could impact windows.

The right materials can make boarding up windows near me up more efficient and speedier. The most important thing is to determine the dimensions of the windows you'll must cover. This will ensure that the plywood or OSB is snugly fitted and won't be able to come off easily. If you're using plywood make sure you use exterior grade sheets, and consider adding an extra layer of protection.

Note the locations where screws are to be placed into the board after you have measured the OSB or plywood. Use a drill to predrill holes at 12-inch intervals in the plywood. Then, you can use hanger bolts to anchor the boards in an emergency boarding up near me or emergency situation. After the storm is over and the local authorities have given the all-clear, take out the bolts, but save them in case of a need in the future.

The next step is to place the plywood panels over the windows. This is a job for two people So be prepared before starting. If you're using plywood, sand the edges to smooth them so they don't scratch paint or trim. Then, use corrosion-resistant screws to attach the plywood using the pilot holes. If your home is lined with vinyl shingles it is recommended to nail the plywood to the shingles instead of the wood framing underneath.

A window that has been boarded up may be used to deter burglars. The burglars will be more likely to target a structure with a damaged window or one that is not locked. Also, they are more likely to break into a store with a boarded-up window than one without. This is something that retail business owners should take very seriously.