A Step-By-Step Guide To Boarding Up Windows And Doors From Start To Finish

Boarding Up Windows and Doors Before a Storm Hits

Boarding up your doors and windows before an event can give you an effective protection against damage. You will need a few items to do this.

First, measure the window's height and width including the framing (not the trim or masonry). Take note of these measurements so that you don't forget.

Preparation

It is always best to put up a board on doors and windows prior to an event like a storm or natural disaster strikes. This will stop property damage and minimize loss of life. The process of boarding up windows requires an extensive amount of preparation, such as purchasing and measuring plywood boards, and determining the exact size of each window to cover. It takes time to cut and put in the boards in a proper manner. The process can be simplified by preparing the boards immediately you hear of a storm approaching your area. You can avoid stress in the last minute and make it easier for both you and your staff.

Start by listening to the forecasters of the weather 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 required items without being pushed by a storm that is rapidly approaching. You may require a substantial amount of plywood to cover your windows, according to the severity and intensity of the storm. Make use of a tape to determine the width and height of each window opening. Make sure to take into account the trim or framing surrounding each window, as and any sills with extended extensions when applicable.

Divide the total width and the height of your window by two to determine the number of plywood sheets that you'll need. For example, if width of your window is 16 inches, the thickness of each sheet should be 8 inches. If you have wood exterior, drill pilot holes in the plywood sheet and align them with the window frame underneath to prevent splitting when screwing in the screws.

If you have a larger window opening than one sheet of plywood can handle cut two sheets plywood that are half as large as the window you wish to cover. Then place them side-by-side on the wall. Cut a piece 2 by 4 in (5.1 x 10.2 cm) of lumber to the length the connecting edge between the sheets of plywood and then place it on the 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.

Materials

To ensure security and safety, only use materials that are durable and won't be damaged or break in strong winds. Plywood is a popular material used to encase windows. It is easy to use, inexpensive, and readily available. Pick plywood that is of the exterior grade (CDX) because it is more durable and have fewer knots and warps. A more durable alternative is storm shutters or hurricane shutters, which are installed over windows already in use to offer more protection against glass shattering and weather conditions that can be severe.

Once you've determined the location of your windows then measure the height and width of each to determine the amount of plywood you will need. Then, use the power drill to drill 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 that the boards are secured. If you have wood siding on your property, search for nailheads to determine stud locations. If not, you can look for stud positions using your drill. Make sure you insert the screws into the framing rather than the sheathing or trim. a plywood panel attached only to these materials may become a hazard in strong winds.

If the size of your window is too big for a single sheet plywood, cut two separate pieces that are each the size you require and join them together with 2 by 4 inch lumber. Label each plywood panel so that 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 get through both the sheathing and the studs. To secure the plywood panels to the wall, use screws made of corrosion-resistant that are long enough to penetrate both the sheathing as well as the studs.

In addition to protecting your windows, you should install a "No Trespassing" sign on the property and think about installing polycarbonate security glazing like DefenseLite over your primary windows. These transparent shields are bonded to existing glass and shield your windows and door. They are virtually indestructible and discourage burglars from gaining entry into your home.

Installation

If you live or are planning to move to a place susceptible to hurricanes and are worried about the possibility of a storm, it's best to board up all your windows and doors. This task can be completed quickly and efficiently, however only if the plywood panels are cut, measured, and labeled before the storm arrives.

You'll also need a few other tools, such as a drill (or a hammer and nails if you don't have the power drill) and a saw, tape, a level, gloves and a pair of safety glasses. It's an excellent idea for the plywood to be coated with sealant in order to make it waterproof.

Start by measuring the height and width of each window opening, and then cutting your plywood sheets so they fit inside the frames, with a 4-inch overlap on all sides. This is best done on site because you can control the exact dimensions.

Use a circular saw or track saw to cut the boards to size, and remember that you'll have to sand them off once they've been put in. After your boards are in place, screw the 3-inch stainless steel hanger screws into the posts that frame each window. Use washers on each bolt and wing nuts to secure them. Be sure that each 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 with concrete block, you can instead join the plywood to the structure by using galvanized pan-head screws that are driven through the edges that overlap of each panel into cinder blocks or masonry blocks. It is also necessary to drill pilots into the masonry, and then screw corrosion resistant screws into the holes. The project could take about three hours per period. It is important to begin as soon when a hurricane warning has been issued. This will allow you enough time to complete your project prior to the time when the storm is expected to hit.

Maintenance

If you're a homeowner or business owner, you must have the right materials to board up windows and doors in advance of a severe storm. This will help you avoid expensive repairs and protect your home from further damage caused by wind, rain flying objects, and other factors.

boarding up houses  will make boarding simpler and faster. It is essential to accurately measure every window. This will ensure that the plywood or OSB fits snugly and won't fall off easily. If you're using plywood, be sure to use exterior-grade sheets and consider adding a protective finish.

Mark the places where screws are to be put into the board after you have measured the plywood or OSB. Make use of a drill to drill holes at 12-inch intervals in the plywood. This will allow you to safely attach the boards to hanger bolts during an emergency or disaster. Once the storm has passed and you've received the all-clear from local authorities, take off the hanger bolts, but leave them in place for any future emergency situations.

The next step is to place the plywood panels over the windows. This is a two-person task, 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 connect the plywood using the pilot holes. If your home has shingles made of vinyl it, nail the plywood directly to the shingles and not to the wood framing.

A boarded-up window can also be used to deter burglars. Burglars are more likely take aim at a structure that has a locked or broken window. Also, they are more likely to break in a store with a boarded-up window than one with. This is something that retail business owners must take seriously.