The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows

Protecting your home from damage from storms is achievable with board up windows. It is a difficult task that requires the help of another person.

Before beginning the process make sure you measure your windows accurately to ensure that the plywood fits snugly. Make sure you have a power drill and circular saw to cut the boards.

Seals Windows

The practice of boarding windows is a tried and true method for protecting property in the event of an emergency. It's a simple process that requires only a few basic tools and a bit of time, however, it can be very effective.

Boarding up windows has a primary purpose that is to stop the glass from breaking due to debris during an extreme storm or weather. The boarding is typically constructed of plywood and is fixed to the frame of the window with a screw or nail. Other materials, such as zip ties or duct tape can be used to board windows. However, plywood is inexpensive and simple to use which makes it an extremely popular choice.

To begin the boarding process, take measurements of the height and width of each window. This will allow you to cut a 5/8-inch thickness of exterior-grade plywood (OSB) or oriented-strand board. Make sure that the dimensions of the plywood meet the size of the window frame, and leave a 1 There should be a 4 inch gap between the edge of the plywood and window frame to allow expansion.

After cutting the plywood to size, screw it into place using hanger bolts and nuts. These bolts are designed to be attached to the studs in a house, and can be purchased at a variety of hardware stores or home improvement stores. The holes in the plywood should be drilled to correspond with the diameter of the hanger bolts, and should be spaced at least 2 inches apart on all sides. When Home Page has passed and the plywood is removed the hanger bolts may be unscrewed and removed from the studs of the house.

It is essential to begin the process of boarding your home as soon as you can, when a hurricane watch has been issued. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to secure your home and give you the chance to spot any problems before the storm strikes. The entire process should take about 30 minutes per window, and should be done by two people.

Prevents Break-Ins

Boarding up windows can be an effective deterrent for burglars. Burglars are attracted to properties they know they can easily access. If they see a property that is boarded up, they might be hesitant before trying to get in. The windows that are boarded up also stop burglars from being able to view inside the property. This is a crucial security advantage.

A good way to protect the property is to board up windows. If you live in a region that is susceptible to extreme weather, boarding up windows can keep your property safe from damage. By covering windows with plywood snow, rain, snow and other debris won't be able to enter, which could save you lots of money on costly repairs and replacements.

When you're deciding on the best way to encase your windows, it's important to choose the right materials. The exterior grade plywood is typically the best choice as it will hold up against the elements. You will need drills for drilling holes into the plywood as well as screws caulk, putty or caulk for sealing the holes. Before you begin, be sure to measure the openings in your windows and note where the screws will go. You should also write down the plywood panel you will need for each window or door. Once you've got all your items, it's time to put up the windows.

While boarding windows up can deter burglaries, this technique is not foolproof. It is still possible for burglars to find ways around the boarding, and it's not always easy to install. If you are relying solely on blocking your windows, you could overlook other security measures which could protect your property.

Installing a security fence is among the best methods to stop burglaries. This is a fantastic option for vacant homes and can be a complement to blocking your windows. But, this option is not suitable for residential or commercial buildings which want to maintain a level of curb appeal.

Reduces Heat Loss

By boarding your windows, you will not just protect your home from burglars, but can also reduce the amount heat that escapes from your windows. About two-thirds loss from a house or building is due to the inefficiency of windows. This happens because of the combination of radiation, convection 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 replaces it. Conduction occurs when heat flows through a window's frame, which is typically composed of steel.

Breaking windows can be a major issue for homeowners and businesses alike, whether it is 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 spaces, which can be vulnerable to robbery attempts by thieves who want to avoid being seen through the window.

There are several alternatives to plywood boards for protection against storm damage, but they don't provide the same degree of security as a sturdy piece of wood covering a window. For instance roll-down hurricane shutters are popular for insulating homes during storms, but they could create a safety hazard when they aren't securely anchored and require a long time to put up and take down. You can also use self-stick rubber weather seals that you can cut to the exact dimensions of your windows. Seals can be pressed into the window to close gaps and allow cold air to pass through and warm air to escape.

If you're seeking a long-term solution, consider installing energy efficient windows that have low-e coatings, which allow the sun's radiant heat to penetrate but block the transfer of other kinds of heat. Consider a draft stopper. It's simply a tube of fabric that is placed on the bottom of your windows, and blocks the escaping of cold air from entering. These options are more expensive than a full window replacement but will reduce your energy costs over the long haul.

Saves Money


While boarding up windows might seem like a costly service to provide in an emergency situation, it actually saves you money over the long-term. By sealing doors and windows, you can reduce drafts that cause heat to escape from your home or business. You can also expect an improvement in your winter energy costs.

Boards are readily available and inexpensive, making them an excellent alternative for temporary protection from a storm. However, before you make use of them to protect your property, you need to be sure to 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 snug fit and allow for expansion during the event of a hurricane. You will also need a saw to cut the plywood OSB and a drill to facilitate mounting. For the best results, you must put the boards up before an expected storm and then wait until the weather conditions are safe.

A reputable boarding-up service can complete the job more efficiently and effectively than someone who is trying to do it on their own. The professionals will employ hurricane clips instead of nails to secure the boards to the property, which will prevent damage to the frames. They can also dismantle the boards when the storm passes and return your property to its original condition.

If you are a property owner for a commercial business or manager, a damaged window could be a major problem. It's not just ruining the appearance of your property but can also trigger burglaries and other security issues. The act of boarding these windows will prevent criminals and potential criminals from entering your property until the window is able to be repaired.

It is also an excellent idea to board up any vacant properties that you own. The 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 for keeping your property secure until it is used again.