What's The Fuss About Boarding Up Windows And Doors?
Boarding Up Windows and Doors Before a Storm Hits
Before a storm hits the windows and doors will protect you from damage. You'll need several items to accomplish this.
First, take measurements of the window's width and height, including the framing (not the trim around it or masonry). Take note of these measurements so that you don't forget.
Preparation
It is always best to board up windows and doors before the storm or another natural disaster strikes. This will minimize the risk of property damage and also reduce the chance of a fatality. Boarding up windows requires an extensive amount of preparation, including buying and measuring plywood boards as well as identifying the exact size of each window to be covered. It also takes time to cut the boards and put them up them correctly. The process can be streamlined by preparing the boards immediately you hear of the possibility of a storm affecting your area. You can avoid stress at the last minute and make it easier for both you and your employees.
Begin by listening to forecasters for weather and follow the guidelines provided by your local government. The earlier you start the process, the better, as it allows you plenty of time to gather and store the required materials without feeling pressured by a storm that is rapidly approaching. It is possible that you will require a large amount of plywood to cover your windows depending on the severity and imminence of the storm. To ensure you get the right size, you can make use of a tape measure determine the width and height of each window opening. Make sure to include the trim or framing around each window, and any ledges that are extended, if necessary.
Next, calculate the size of the plywood sheets you require by dividing the total window width and height by two. If your window has a width of 16 inches, then the thickness of each sheet is 8 inches. If your exterior is made of wood, make pilot holes in the plywood sheet to ensure it is aligned with the window frame below. This will prevent splitting when you screw in the screws.
If you have a larger window opening than one sheet of plywood can handle, cut two sheets of plywood which are each half 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 10.2 cm) 10.2 cm) of lumber to the length of the connecting edge between the two sheets of plywood and then place it on top of the seam. Then, screw 2.25 in (5.7cm) screws into the plywood sheet and into the bracing to join the two.
Materials
To ensure safety and security ensure safety and security, use only materials that are durable and won't be damaged or break in high winds. Plywood is a popular material for boarding up windows. It is easy to work with, cheap and easily available. Pick plywood that is of the exterior grade (CDX) because it is more durable and have fewer knots and warps. A sturdier option is storm shutters, also known as hurricane shutters, which are erected over windows already in use to offer more protection against glass shattering and inclement weather.
Once you have identified the location of the window openings you can take measurements of the height and width to determine the amount of plywood you'll require. Use a power drill drill pilot holes into the plywood sheets around each window at two-inch intervals. Before attaching the plywood, determine and mark stud locations on the wall to ensure that the boards are fastened securely. If your home has wood siding, search for nailheads that might indicate the locations of studs. In other cases, you can search for stud locations using your drill. The screws should be driven into the framing, not the sheathing or trim. A plywood panel that is attached to these materials may cause a safety risk in severe winds.
If your window is too big for one sheet of plywood, you could cut two pieces of plywood that are each half of the size needed and join them with 2 by 4-inch lumber. Label each plywood panel so that you can identify which window it will be covering.
Use corrosion-resistant screws long enough to penetrate the sheathing and the studs that will be used to join the plywood panels to the wall. Make sure to insert the screws into the studs in a way they're about half as deep as the thickness of the plywood however, be cautious not to go too deep and harm the underlying structure of your home.
It is also worth considering installing polycarbonate security glass such as DefenseLite on your primary windows. These transparent shields adhere to the existing glass to guard your windows and doors and are virtually indestructible, preventing criminals from breaking in.
Installation
If you reside or plan to move to a region that is prone to hurricanes and are concerned about the possibility of a storm it is recommended to board up your doors and windows. This task can be completed quickly and efficiently, but only if the boards are measured, cut, and labeled before the storm.
You'll also require other tools, like a drill (or a hammer and nails for those who don't own the power drill) as well as tape, a saw, gloves, a level and a pair of safety glasses. It is a good idea to apply sealant to the plywood, as well, to make it waterproof.
Start by measuring each window opening's height and width. Then, cut your plywood sheets to fit inside the frames. It is recommended to cut the sheets on-site, as it gives you more control over the precise dimensions of the plywood.
Utilize a circular or track saw to cut the boards to the right size be aware that you'll have to sand them down once they're 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 wings nuts to anchor them. Be sure that each screw is inserted at least 2 inches deep into the studs to ensure the boarding is strong enough to withstand high winds.
If you're building using concrete blocks, you can join the plywood using pan head screws galvanized and that are driven into the overlapping edges of the panels to masonry or cinder block. You'll also need to drill pilot holes into the masonry, and then screw corrosion-resistant screws through the holes. It's a job that can take anywhere from three to four hours per window, so it's essential to begin the process as soon as you hear that a hurricane watch has been issued. This will give you time to finish the project before the storm hits.
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. boarding up windows and doors will help you to avoid expensive repairs and protect your home from further damage caused by wind, rain debris, flying objects and other factors.
The right materials can make the boarding up process much easier and quicker to complete. The most important thing is to take measurements of the dimensions of the windows you must cover. This will ensure the OSB or plywood is fitted snugly, and that it will not be able to slide off easily. If you're using plywood, make sure you use exterior grade sheets, and consider adding an extra layer of protection.
After you have the OSB or plywood measured, mark the areas where the screws will go into the board. Make use of a drill to drill holes at 12-inch intervals into the plywood. Then, you can use hanger bolts to anchor the boards in a emergency situation. Once the storm has passed and the local authorities have given you the all-clear, remove the bolts, but save them in case of emergency.
The next step is to install the plywood panels over the windows. This is a two-person job, so be prepared before starting. If you're using plywood, ensure that you sand the edges so they are smooth and won't scratch your paint or trim. Then make use of corrosion-resistant screws attach the plywood using the pilot holes. If your home is lined with vinyl shingles it is recommended to nail the plywood to the shingles, not the wood framing beneath.
A boarded-up window can also be used to discourage burglars. Burglars are more likely to target a property with a window that is broken or one that is not locked. Additionally, they are more likely to break into the store with a boarded up window than one that has no. If you're a retail business owner, this is a matter you need to consider seriously.