The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
Boarding up windows is a way to safeguard your home from damage caused by storms. However, it's a labor-intensive task and must be completed with the assistance of someone else.
Measure your windows to ensure that the plywood will fit snugly. Make sure you have a circular saw and power drill to cut the boards.
Seals Windows
It's a tried and reliable method of protecting your property from a storm. It's a fairly simple process that requires just a few tools and a bit of time to complete but it's extremely efficient.
The primary reason for boarding up windows is to create an enveloping physical layer over the glass, which stops it from breaking due to debris during a hurricane or other extreme weather event. The boarding is typically made of plywood, and is connected to the frame using either a screw or nail. Other materials, like zip ties or duct tape can be used to board windows. However plywood is cheap and easy to use and is an ideal choice.
Find the height and width of each window prior to when you begin the boarding process. This information will help you cut a sheet 5/8-inch thick of exterior-grade plywood (OSB) or oriented-strand board. Make sure that the dimensions of the plywood match the dimensions of the window frame, and leave a 1 4 inch gap between the edges of the plywood and the window frame to allow expansion.
After the plywood has been cut to size, screw it into the frame using hanger bolts as well as nuts. These bolts are designed to be attached to the studs of a house and are available at a variety of hardware stores or home improvement centers. The holes in the plywood should be drilled to a diameter that matches the hanger bolts and set apart by at least 2 inches on all sides. When the storm has passed and the plywood has been removed the hanger bolts may be unscrewed and removed from the studs of the house.
It is crucial to begin the process of boarding your home as soon as you can, when a hurricane watch has been issued. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to safeguard your home and give you the chance to spot any issues before the storm hits. The entire process should take about 30 minutes for each window.
Stopping break-ins
One of the primary reasons why property owners use boarding up windows is because it acts as a deterrent for burglars. Burglars tend to target homes that they know they can easily access. If they see a property that is boarded up they may think twice before attempting to enter. The windows that are boarded up also stop burglars from having the ability to look inside the property and gain another security benefit.
The act of boarding up windows is an effective way to shield your property from the elements. If you live in an area that is susceptible to extreme weather, boarding windows can help to keep your property safe from damage. By covering windows with plywood you can prevent snow, rain, and other debris from entering. This can save you money on costly repairs and replacements.
It is important to select the right materials when deciding which window to board. The exterior grade plywood is typically the best choice as it can withstand the elements. You will also need drilling tools to create holes in the plywood as well as screws, putty or caulk to close the holes. Before you begin, make sure to measure the openings in your windows and mark where the screws will go. You should also write down the plywood panel you will need for each window or door. Once you've got all the supplies, it's the time to put up the windows.
While boarding windows can help prevent burglaries, this method is not foolproof. It is still possible for burglars to get around the boarding, and it's not always easy to put in place. Additionally, if you only rely on boarding your windows, you may overlook other security measures that could enhance your security.
One of the most effective methods to prevent burglaries is by installing security fencing. This is a great option for vacant properties and can be an alternative to boarding your windows. But, this option is not suitable for residential or commercial buildings that wish to keep the curb appeal.
Reduces Heat Loss
In addition to protecting your home from burglaries, boarding your windows can cut down on the amount of heat that escapes through your windows. About two-thirds of the heat loss from a house or building is due to inefficient windows. Radiation, convection, and conduction are all involved. Radiation occurs when warm windows glass comes into contact with cold air which causes it to radiate heat away. Convection occurs when hot air rises and colder air replaces it. Conduction happens the process of transferring heat through the window's frame, which is often constructed of metal.
Windows that break can be a major issue for homeowners and businesses regardless of whether it's caused by severe weather or vandalism. The boarded-up windows will conceal any rough edges or jagged edges, and allow you to keep your business open while the window is being repaired. boarding up property is especially crucial for commercial areas which are prone to robbery attempts by thieves who want to hide from being observed through the window.
There are a few alternatives to plywood boards for protection against storm damage however they don't offer the same degree of security as a sturdy piece of wood that covers a window. For instance roll-down hurricane shutters can be popular for insulating homes in storms, however they can create a safety hazard when they are not properly anchored and require a long time to install and remove. You can also use self-stick rubber weather seals that you can cut to the exact measurements of your windows. The seals can be pressed into place to seal gaps that allow cold air and allow warm air to escape.
You should consider installing windows that are energy-efficient with low-e coated glass that allows sun's heat to pass through and block other forms of heat transfer. Also consider a draft stopper which is a basic fabric tube that is placed at the bottom of your window and prevents cold air from leaking in. These alternatives are more expensive than a full window replacement, but they can reduce your energy costs in the long term.
Saves Money
While boarding up windows may appear like a costly option to provide in an emergency situation, it actually saves you money over the long-term. By sealing your doors and windows with boards, you can reduce drafts that allow heat to escape from the home or commercial space. In the end you will pay lower energy bills during the wintertime.
Boards are readily available and cheap, making them an excellent choice for temporary protection against a storm. Before you can make use of them as a protection for your home you must measure each window. Measure horizontally inside the trim and vertically between the bottom of the top trim and the sill. Then, add eight inches to the height and width to ensure a perfect fit and allow for expansion in a storm. You will also need a saw to cut the plywood OSB and a drill for mounting. Install the boards prior to the storm, and then remove them when the weather is stable.
A professional boarding-up business will be able to complete the job faster and more efficiently than a person trying to do it on their own. These professionals employ hurricane clips instead of nails to attach the boards to your property, thus preventing any damage to the frames. After the storm, they can take down the boards and restore your property back to its original condition.
If you are a property owner for a commercial business, then a broken window could be a major problem. It not only affects the appearance of your building however, it could also cause theft and other security concerns. By boarding up windows that are broken, you will stop criminals and potential criminals from entering your property until the window is able to be replaced.
It is also a good idea to board up any vacant properties you own. This is crucial to ensure your property is secure when it is being used.