The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
Boarding up windows is a way to safeguard your home from storm damage. It is a difficult task that requires the help of another person.
Measure your windows to make sure the plywood will fit snugly. Make sure you have the power drill and circular saw to cut the boards.
Seals Windows
Boarding up windows is a tried-and-true method of protecting your property in the event of an incoming storm. It's an easy process that requires just a few basic tools and some time, but it can be extremely effective.
The main reason to board windows is to create an enveloping physical layer over the glass, which stops it from being damaged by debris during a hurricane or other severe weather event. The boarding is typically made of plywood and is secured to the window frame with either a screw or nail. There are other materials that could be used to board up windows, such as duct tape and zip ties, but plywood is affordable and easy to work with and is a great choice.
To begin the boarding process, measure the width and height of each window. Use this information to cut a sheet of 5/8-inch thickness exterior-grade plywood or oriented Strand Board (OSB). Make sure the dimensions of the plywood meet the size of the window frame, and leave one inch. There is a gap of 4 inches between the edges of the plywood and the window frame to allow for expansion.

After the plywood has been cut to size, screw it into place using hanger bolts and nuts. These bolts are designed to be attached to the studs of a home and are available at a wide range of hardware stores and home improvement centers. The holes in the plywood must be made to match the diameter of the hanger bolts, and should be spaced at least 2 inches apart on all sides. After the storm is over and the plywood is removed, the hanger bolts can be removed and reattached to the studs of the house.
When a hurricane warning is issued, it is crucial to begin the boarding process as soon as you can. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to protect your home, and give you the chance to identify any problems before the storm strikes. The whole process should take around 30 minutes per window, and should be done by two people.
Preventing Break-Ins
One of the main reasons property owners consider the practice of boarding up windows is that it serves as a deterrent for burglars. Burglars are attracted to properties they know they can easily access. If they see the property boarded up they may think twice before attempting to gain entry. Boarded-up windows also prevent burglars being able to view inside the property. This is an important security benefit.
The act of boarding up windows is an excellent way to protect your property from the elements. If you live in an area that is prone to severe weather, boarding windows can help prevent damage to your property. By covering the windows with plywood snow, rain, snow and other debris cannot get in, which can save you a lot of money on costly repairs and replacements.
It is important to select the right materials when choosing what to use for the boarding of your windows. The best choice is exterior-grade plywood, which is able to be able to withstand the elements. You will need a drill for drilling holes into the plywood, along with screws, caulk or putty to seal the holes. Before you begin, be sure to measure the window openings and note where the screws will go. Also, note the type of plywood that goes with each door or window. Once you've got all your supplies, it's the time to affix your windows.
While boarding windows can deter burglaries, this method is not foolproof. It is still possible for burglars to get around the boarding, and it's not always simple to install. Furthermore, if your rely solely on boarding up your windows, you may overlook other security measures that can help protect your home.
Installing security fencing is among the best ways to prevent burglaries. This is a great solution for vacant homes and can be a complement to blocking your windows. However, this solution is not suitable for commercial or residential buildings that want to maintain an appearance.
Reduces Heat Loss
In addition to protecting your home from burglaries, boarding up windows can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through your windows. About two-thirds of the heat loss from a house or building is due inefficient windows. This happens through a combination of convection, radiation, and conduction. 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 moves in to replace it. Conduction is the heat that is absorbed by the window frame, which is usually made of metal.
Windows that break can pose a problem for many businesses and homeowners regardless of whether it's caused by severe weather or vandalism. The act of boarding up windows hides any jagged or rough edges, and allows you to keep your business open until the window can be repaired. This is particularly important for commercial buildings that can be vulnerable to theft by thieves who aren't keen on being seen through the windows.
There are several alternatives to plywood boards to protect against storm damage however, they do not offer the same level of security as a solid piece of wood that is encased in a window. For example roll-down hurricane shutters can be popular for insulating homes during storms, but they could pose a risk to safety if they aren't securely anchored and require time to set up and remove. Another alternative is to use strips of self-stick weather sealing which you cut to fit the window's dimensions. Seals can be pressed in place to seal gaps, allowing cold air to enter and warm air to exit.
If you are looking for a longer-term solution, consider installing energy efficient windows with low-e coatings, which allow the sun's radiant heat to pass through but block the transfer of other kinds of heat. Consider draft stoppers. This is a simple tube of fabric that sits on the bottom of your windows and prevents cold, escaping air from entering. These options are more expensive than a full window replacement but will reduce your energy bills in the long term.
Saves Money
While it might be costly to put up a window in an emergency, you'll save money in the long run. By securing your doors and windows by using boards, you will reduce drafts that allow heat to escape from the home or commercial space. Also, you will see an improvement in your winter energy costs.
Boards are readily available and inexpensive they are a great choice for temporary protection against the ravages of a storm. However, before boarding up services can use them to protect your home, you must carefully measure every window. Measure horizontally inside the trim and vertically between the bottom of the top trim and the sill. Then add eight inches to both the height and width to ensure a snug fit and allow for expansion during a hurricane. You will also require a saw to cut the plywood OSB, and a drill for mounting. For best results, you should install the boards before an expected storm and wait to remove them until the weather conditions are safe.
A reputable boarding up business can do the job faster and more efficiently than a person trying to do it by themselves. They employ hurricane clips instead of nails to secure the boards to your property, preventing any damage to the frames. After the storm, they will take down the boards and restore your property back to its original state.
A broken window can be a big problem for commercial property owners. It's not just a problem for the appearance of your property however, it could also lead to theft and other security issues. Boarding up the broken windows will keep criminals and other opportunists out of your property until you are able replace it.
It is also recommended to board up any vacant properties that you own. This is important to ensure that your property is safe when it is being used.