5 Must-Know Boarding Up Windows And Doors Practices You Need To Know For 2024

Boarding Up Windows and Doors Before a Storm Hits

Boarding up your windows and doorways before the storm hits can offer the protection you need against damage. You will need a few items to do this.

Measure the height and width of the window including the frame (not the trim or masonry that surrounds the window). Note these measurements so you don't forget.

Preparation

It is always recommended to board up doors and windows before the storm or another natural disaster hits. This will limit property damage and reduce the risk of death. Boarding up windows requires an extensive amount of preparation, like buying and measuring plywood boards, and determining the exact size of each window to cover. It takes time to cut and put in the boards in a proper manner. Fortunately, the process can be simplified by starting the preparations as soon as you hear of a possible storm forming in your area. You can avoid stress in the last minute, and make it easier for you and your employees.

Start by listening to the forecasters of the weather and following the guidelines set by your local government. The earlier you start the process, the better, as it gives you enough time to gather and store the needed materials without feeling strained by a rapidly approaching storm. You may require a substantial amount of plywood to cover your windows, dependent on the severity and speed of the storm. Make use of a tape to determine the width and height of each window opening. Make sure to include the framing or trim around each window, and any extended ledges if necessary.

Then, determine the size of the plywood sheets you require by dividing the total window width and height by 2. For instance, if the width of your window is 16 inches, the thickness of each sheet should be 8 inches. If you have wood exterior, drill pilot holes into the plywood sheet that align with the window frame underneath to avoid splitting when you screw into the screws.

To make sure that the window's opening is greater than the size of a single sheet of plywood can accommodate, cut two separate sheets that are each half the size of the intended window and lay them side-by-side on the wall. Cut a piece 2 by 4 inches (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 the top of the seam. Then, screw 2.25 in (5.7cm) screws into the plywood sheet, and then through the bracing to join the two together.

Materials

To ensure safety and security For your safety and security, only use materials that are strong and will not be damaged or break in high winds. The most common material used to board up windows is plywood, which is affordable easily available and simple to work with. It's important to choose plywood that is specifically exterior grade (CDX) for added strength, and free of knots and warping. A more durable option is storm shutters, also known as hurricane shutters, which are installed over windows already in use to offer more protection against glass shattering and the weather that can cause a lot of damage.

Once you've determined the location of the window openings you can take measurements of the height and width to determine the amount of plywood you will require. Use a power drill to drill pilot holes into the plywood sheets around the windows at intervals of two inches. Before attaching the plywood, determine and mark the locations of studs on the wall to ensure the boards will be fastened securely. If you have wood siding in your home, search for nailheads in order to determine stud position. You could also use your drill to determine the locations of studs. Make sure you drive the screws into the framing rather than the sheathing or trim; a plywood panel fastened only to these materials could become an hazard during strong winds.

If the size of your window is too large for a single sheet plywood, cut two separate pieces which are each half the size you need and join them using 2 by 4 inches of lumber. Label each plywood piece to let you know what window it will be covering.

Make sure you use corrosion-resistant screws that are long enough to penetrate the sheathing and the studs to secure the plywood panels to the wall. To secure the plywood panels to the wall, use screws made of corrosion-resistant that are long enough to penetrate the sheathing as well as the studs.

You should also consider installing polycarbonate security glass similar to DefenseLite on your primary windows. These transparent shields are fixed to existing glass and shield your windows and doors. They are virtually impervious to breakage and deter criminals from attempting to break into your home.

Installation

If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, or are planning on moving to one, the best option is to board up your doors and windows prior to the possibility of a storm is afoot. It's a project that can be completed quickly and efficiently but only if take the time to measure and cut your plywood panels before the storm comes.

You'll also require a few other tools, including a drill (or nails and a hammer if you don't have an electric drill), tape, a saw, an apron, gloves and safety glasses. It is a good idea to coat the plywood with sealant, as well, to make it waterproof.

Begin by measuring the height and width of each window's opening, and then cutting the plywood sheets so that they fit inside the frames, with an overlap of 4 inches on all sides. This is best done on-site because you are more in control of the exact dimensions.

Cut the boards to the size you want with a track or circular saw. Once they're installed, you will need to sand down all of them. Once you've put your boards in place, screw three-inch stainless steel hanger bolts into the framing studs of each window. Use washers to secure each bolt and the wing nuts. Make sure that each screw is able to penetrate the studs at a minimum of two inches to ensure that the board is strong enough to withstand high winds.

If you're building with concrete block, you can instead attach the plywood to the structure by using galvanized pan-head screws that are driven through the edges that are overlapping of each piece into bricks or cinder blocks. It is also necessary to drill pilot holes into the masonry, and then insert corrosion-resistant screws into the holes. It's a job that can take up to three hours per window, which is why it's crucial to begin the process immediately after you hear that a hurricane warning has been issued. This will give you plenty of time to finish the job before the storm strikes.

Maintenance

It is recommended to secure your doors and windows before an extreme storm. This will help you avoid expensive repairs and protect your home from further damage that could be caused by rain, wind flying objects, and other causes.

The right materials will make boarding more efficient and speedier.  service for boarding up windows  is to precisely determine the dimensions of each window you'll must cover. This will ensure that the OSB or plywood fits snugly, and that it will not fall off easily. If you're using plywood, be sure to use exterior-grade sheets and consider adding an extra layer of protection.

Note the locations where the screws are going to be placed into the board after you have taken measurements of the OSB or plywood. Utilize a drill to predrill holes at intervals of 12 inches into the plywood. This will allow you to safely fasten the boards with hanger bolts in an emergency or disaster. Once the storm has passed and the local authorities have given the all-clear, take out the bolts but keep them for future emergencies.

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 are using plywood then sand the edges to smooth them so they won't scratch paint or damage trim. Then make use of corrosion-resistant screws attach the plywood using the pilot holes. If your home has shingles made of vinyl on it, attach the plywood directly to the shingles and not to the wood framing.

A boarded-up window can also be used to stop burglars. Burglars are more likely to target a property that has a broken window or one that's not secured. Additionally, they are more likely to break in the store with a boarded up window than one without. This is something that business owners in retail must take seriously.