An Easy-To-Follow Guide To Boarding Up Windows
The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows Boarding up windows is a method to shield your home from storm damage. It's a daunting task that requires the help of a third party. Before you start the process take a precise measurement of your windows to ensure that the plywood fits perfectly. Also, ensure that you have a circular saw as well as a power drill to cut the boards. Seals Windows Boarding 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 only a few basic tools and a bit of time, however, it can be very effective. The purpose of boarding up windows is one primary goal: to prevent the glass from breaking due to debris during the storm or other severe weather. The boarding is usually made from plywood, and is fixed to the frame of the window with 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 which makes it an extremely popular choice. Measure the height and width of each window prior to when you begin the boarding procedure. This information will help you cut a sheet 5/8-inch thick of exterior-grade plywood (OSB) or oriented-strand board. The dimensions of the plywood must be similar to the dimensions of your window frame. Leave an inch gap. There is a gap of 4 inches between the edges of the plywood and the window frame to allow for expansion. After cutting the plywood to size, screw it into the desired position using hanger bolts and nuts. These bolts are available in a variety of hardware stores and home improvement centers. They are designed to connect directly to the studs on the house. The plywood holes should be drilled with a diameter that is equal to the hanger bolts, and spaced apart by at least 2 inches on all sides. After the storm is over and the plywood has been removed, the bolts can be removed from the studs. It is important to start the boarding up process as soon as you can, once a hurricane watch is issued. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to secure your home, and give you the chance to identify any issues before the storm arrives. The whole process should take around 30 minutes per window, and should be done by two people. Stops break-ins One of the main reasons property owners consider boarding up windows is because it acts as a deterrent for burglars. Burglars usually target homes they know they can easily break into If they see a property has been boarded up, they'll be more cautious about trying to break into it. Boarded-up windows also prevent burglars having access to the house. This is a significant security advantage. The act of boarding up windows is an excellent way to protect your home from the elements. If you live in an area where there is a high risk of extreme weather, you should board up windows to protect your property. By covering windows with plywood snow, rain, and other debris cannot be able to enter, which could save you a lot of money on costly repairs and replacements. It is important to select the right materials when choosing which window to board. The best option is exterior grade plywood, which will stand up to the elements. You will require a drill for drilling holes in the plywood, along with screws, caulk or putty for sealing the holes. Before you begin, make sure to measure the openings in your windows and note where the screws will be. Also, note down the plywood panel you will need for each window or door. Once you have the necessary materials, it's time to start boarding up your windows. While boarding up your windows can help stop burglaries, it is not 100% secure. It is still possible for burglars to get around the board, and it's not always simple to install. In addition, if you are solely relying on boarding your windows, you may overlook other security measures that could further protect your property. Installing security fencing is one of the most effective ways to prevent burglaries. This is a great solution for vacant properties and can be an ideal complement to blocking your windows. However, this method is not a good fit for residential or commercial buildings that wish to keep an appearance. Reduces Heat Loss In addition to keeping your home safe from break-ins, boarding up windows can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through your windows. Window glass that is not efficient is responsible for around two-thirds of the heat loss from homes or buildings. This happens through a combination of radiation, convection and conduction. Radiation occurs when warm window glass contacts cold air, which causes it to radiate heat away. Convection happens when hot air rises, and colder air enters to replace it. Conduction happens the process of transferring heat through a window's frame, which is typically constructed of metal. Breaking windows can be a major issue for many businesses and homeowners, whether it is caused by severe weather or vandalism. Boarding up a window conceals any rough or jagged edges, and allows you to keep your business open until the window is repaired. This is especially crucial for commercial spaces that are prone to theft by thieves who do not want to be observed through windows. There are a few alternatives to plywood boards for storm damage protection however they don't offer the same degree of security as a solid piece of wood that covers a window. For example roll-down hurricane shutters can be popular for insulating homes in storms, but they could pose a risk to safety if they are not properly anchored and require time to set up and remove. Another alternative is to make use of strips of self-stick rubber weather sealing that you cut to fit your window dimensions. Seals can be put in place to seal gaps, allowing cold air to get in and warm air to exit. If you are looking for a more long-term solution, consider installing energy efficient windows with low-e coatings that allow the sun's radiant heat to penetrate but block the transfer of other kinds of heat. Also consider a draft stopper, which is a simple fabric tube that sits at the bottom of your window, and stops cold air from leaking in. These options can be more expensive than a full window replacement, but they will aid in reducing your energy bills in the long run. Saves Money While boarding windows up may appear like a costly option to provide in a crisis, it actually saves you money over the long-term. By securing your doors and windows with boards, you can reduce drafts that allow heat to escape from the home or commercial property. Also, you will see a reduction in your winter energy costs. Boards are inexpensive and readily available and are a good choice for temporary protection against a storm. However, before you make use of them to protect your home, you must carefully measure each window. Take measurements horizontally within the trim and vertically between the bottom of the top trim and the sill. Add eight inches to the height and width of both to ensure a tight fit and to allow for expansion in a storm. You will also require a saw to cut the plywood OSB and a drill for mounting. Install 24 hour boarding up service near me before an event and take them off when the weather is stable. A professional boarding up company will complete the job quicker and more efficiently than anyone trying to do it by themselves. They will use hurricane clip instead of nails to attach the boards to your property, thus preventing any damage to the frames. They can also take down the boards after the storm has passed and restore your property to its original condition. A damaged window can be a major issue for commercial property owners. It's not just a problem for the appearance of your property, but also lead to burglaries and other security issues. The act of boarding up windows that are broken will keep criminals and other opportunists out of your property until you can replace it. It is also an excellent idea to board up any vacant properties that you own. Properties that are vacant are more likely to be targeted by squatters as well as are easily targets for arsonists, therefore this is a crucial step to keep your property safe until it can be used again.