The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
Protecting your property against storm damage is possible by board up windows. But, it's labor-intensive and must be done with the help of another person.
Take measurements of your windows to make sure the plywood will fit comfortably. Make sure you have the circular saw and power drill to cut the boards.
Seals Windows
The practice of boarding up windows is a tried-and-true method for protecting property in the event of a storm. It's an easy process that requires only the use of a few tools and a bit of time, but it can be extremely effective.
Boarding up windows has a primary purpose that is to stop the glass from breaking because of debris during a storm or other severe weather. The boarding is typically constructed of plywood, and is attached to the window frame with a screw or nail. There are other materials that could be used to cover windows like duct tape or zip ties, however plywood is inexpensive and simple to work with which makes it a good choice.
To begin the boarding process, measure the width and height of each window. Utilizing this information, cut a piece of 5/8-inch thick exterior grade plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). The dimensions of the plywood must be similar to the dimensions of your window frame. Leave one inch of space. 4 inch gap between the edges of the plywood and the window frame to allow expansion.
After the plywood is cut to size, screw it into the frame using hanger bolts as well as nuts. These bolts can be found in the majority of hardware stores as well as home improvement stores. They are designed to be attached directly to the studs on the house. The holes for the plywood must be drilled to a diameter that is equal to the hanger bolts, and spaced apart by a minimum of 2 inches on all sides. After the storm is over and the plywood has been removed and the bolts removed, they can be removed from the studs.
If a hurricane warning has been issued, it is crucial to begin the boarding-up process as soon as possible. This will enable you to ensure that you have enough plywood to safeguard your home and give you the chance to find any issues before the storm hits. The entire process should take about 30 minutes per time.
Stopping break-ins
Boarding up windows can be a great deterrent to burglars. Burglars tend to target homes that they are aware of the possibility of entering. If they see the property boarding up, they might think twice before attempting to enter. Windows that are screened off also stop burglars from having the ability to inspect the inside of the house and gain another security benefit.
The practice of boarding up windows is an excellent way to protect your home from the elements. If you live in a region which is susceptible to extreme weather, boarding windows can help to protect your home from damage. By covering windows with plywood you can prevent snow, rain, and other debris from getting inside. This will help you save money on costly repairs and replacements.
When deciding on how to encase your windows, it is crucial to select the appropriate materials. Exterior-grade plywood is usually 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, caulk or putty to seal the holes. Make sure you take measurements of the window openings prior to when you begin, and then mark where screws will be positioned. Also, note down the plywood panel that is intended for each door or window. Once you've got all your materials, it's time to affix your windows.
Although boarding up windows can deter burglaries, this method is not foolproof. It is still possible for burglars to circumvent the board, and it's not always easy to install. In emergency boarding up , if you rely solely on boarding up your windows, you may overlook other security measures that can enhance your security.
Installing a security fence is one of the best methods to stop burglaries. This is a great choice for vacant homes and can be an excellent addition to boarding up windows. This solution is not suitable for residential or commercial structures that want to keep curb appeal.
Reduces Heat Loss
In addition to safeguarding your home from burglaries, boarding your windows can help reduce the amount of heat that escapes through your windows. Window glass that is inefficient is responsible for about two-thirds the heat loss from a building or home. This happens because of a combination of radiation, convection and conduction. Radiation occurs when warm window glass is in contact with cold air, which causes it to radiate heat away. Convection occurs when hot air rises before colder air replaces it. Conduction is the process by which heat is absorbed by the window frame, which is typically made of metal.
It doesn't matter if it's extreme weather or vandalism, the breaking of windows is a problem that many businesses and homeowners must tackle. The window that is boarded up will hide any rough edges or jagged edges, and allow you to keep your business open while the window is being repaired. This is especially important for commercial spaces that can be vulnerable to robbery by thieves who aren't keen on being seen through the windows.
There are other alternatives to plywood to protect against storm damage. However, they do not provide the same level of security as a solid piece wood that covers your window. For example, roll-down hurricane shutters are popular to help in insulating homes during storms, however they can cause a safety risk if they aren't securely anchored and take time to install and remove. Another alternative is to use strips of self-stick weather sealing that you cut to fit the window's dimensions. Seals can be put in place to close gaps allowing cold air to pass through and warm air to leave.
You should consider installing windows that are energy-efficient with low-e coated glass that allows the sun's heat to pass through, while blocking other types of heat transfer. Consider draft stoppers. It's an easy tube of fabric that is placed on the bottom of your windows, and blocks the escape of cold air from entering. These options may be more expensive than a complete window replacement, but they'll aid in reducing your energy bills in the long run.
Savings on Money
While boarding up windows might seem like a costly service to offer in an emergency situation, it actually saves you money over the long-term. By sealing doors and windows it will reduce drafts that cause heat to escape from the home or business. As a result, you will see lower energy bills during the winter months.
Boards are inexpensive and readily available which makes them a great choice for temporary protection from storms. However, before you use them to protect your property, you need to carefully measure each window. Be sure to measure horizontally inside the trim and vertically from the bottom of the top trim to the sill. Then, add eight inches to the height and width to ensure a perfect fit and allow for expansion in a hurricane. Also, you will require a saw to cut the plywood or OSB and a drill to facilitate mounting. Install the boards prior to a storm and take them off when the weather is stable.
A professional boarding up company can complete the task faster and more efficiently than a person trying to do it by themselves. These professionals will use hurricane clips instead of nails to attach the boards to the property, preventing damage to the frames. After the storm, they will take down the boards and restore your property back to its original condition.
If you're an owner of commercial properties and you have a window that is broken, it can be a major issue. It can not only ruin the appearance of your property but also lead to thefts and other security concerns. The act of boarding up windows that are broken will keep criminals and other opportunists out of your property until you can replace it.
You should also board up any vacant property you own. Vacant properties are more likely to be targeted by squatters as well as are easy targets for arsonists, so this is an important step to ensure that your property is secure until it can be used again.