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The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows

The idea of boarding up windows is a method to shield your home from potential storm damage. But, it’s a labor-intensive task and must be accomplished with the help of another person.

Measure your windows to ensure that the plywood will fit snugly. Make sure you have a power drill and circular saw to cut the boards.

Seals Windows

The practice of boarding up windows is a tried-and-true method of protecting your property in the event of an emergency. It’s a simple procedure that requires only a few tools and some time however, it can be extremely efficient.

The main reason to board up windows is to provide a physical barrier over the glass that prevents it from breaking due to debris in the event of a hurricane or another extreme weather event. The boarding is typically constructed from plywood, and is secured to the window frame with nails or screws. There are 24 hour boarding up service near me that can be used to secure windows such as duct tape and zip ties, however plywood is affordable and easy to work with and is a great choice.

Find the height and width of each window prior to when you begin the boarding process. This will allow you to cut a 5/8-inch thick sheet of exterior-grade plywood (OSB) or oriented-strand board. Make sure the dimensions of the plywood match the size of the window frame, and leave 1 inch of space There should be a four inch gap between the edge of the plywood and the window frame to allow for expansion.

After the plywood has been cut to size after which you can screw in the hanger bolts with nuts. These bolts are found in the majority of hardware stores as well as home improvement centers. They are designed to attach directly to the studs on the house. The holes in the plywood should be drilled to match the diameter of the hanger bolts, and should be spaced at least 2 inches apart on all sides. When the storm is over and the plywood is removed, the hanger bolts can be removed and reattached to the studs of the house.

When a hurricane warning is issued, it is crucial to begin the boarding-up process as soon possible. This will enable you to make sure you have enough plywood to secure your home and also allow you to find any issues before the storm hits. The entire process should take two people about 30 minutes to complete per window.

Prevents break-ins

One of the primary reasons why property owners use boarded up windows is that it serves as a deterrent to burglars. Burglars tend to target properties they know they can break into and, if they notice the property is boarded up, they’ll be more cautious about trying to break into it. Boarded up windows also prevent burglars from being able to look inside the property and gain another security benefit.

The practice of boarding up windows is an effective way to shield 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 shield your home. By covering windows with plywood you can stop snow, rain, and other debris from getting inside. This will help you save money on expensive repairs and replacements.

When deciding on how to frame your windows, it’s essential to choose the correct materials. The best option is exterior grade plywood, which is able to withstand the elements. You will require drills for drilling holes in the plywood as well as screws caulk or putty to seal the holes. Be sure to take measurements of the window openings prior to when you begin and mark where screws will be positioned. Also, note down the plywood panel you will need for each door or window. Once you’ve got all the supplies, it’s the time to board up your windows.

While boarding windows up can help prevent burglaries, this technique is not foolproof. Even though the boarding is difficult to put up, it is possible for burglars find an escape route. If you are relying solely on blocking your windows, you could overlook other security measures that could protect your property.

Installing security fencing is one of the best methods to deter burglaries. This is an excellent choice for vacant properties and can be a great complement to boarding up windows. This solution is not suitable for residential or commercial buildings that want to keep curb appeal.

Reduces Heat Loss

Boarding up your windows will not just protect your home from intruders, but it can also reduce the amount heat that escapes through your windows. About two-thirds of the heat loss from a home or building is due inefficient windows. Radiation, convection, and conduction are all involved. Radiation is when warm air touches cold window glass, which causes the glass to emit heat away from your body and the home. Convection occurs when hot air rises and colder air flows in to replace it. Conduction occurs when heat flows through a window’s frame, which is usually composed of steel.

Broken windows can be a major issue for many businesses and homeowners, whether it is due to extreme weather or vandalism. The boarded-up windows will conceal any jagged or rough edges, and it will allow you to keep your business open while the window is being repaired. This is particularly important for commercial spaces that are susceptible to robbery attempts by thieves who wish to keep their eyes off the window.

There are a variety of alternatives to plywood for storm damage protection. However, they do not provide the same level security as a solid piece wood covering your window. For example, roll-down hurricane shutters are popular for insulating homes in storms, but they could create a safety hazard when they aren’t properly secured and require a long 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 seal gaps, allowing cold air to pass through and warm air to escape.

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. Also consider a draft stopper that is a simple fabric tube that is placed on the bottom of your window and prevents cold air from entering. These options are more expensive than a complete window replacement, but they will lower your energy bills in the long run.

Saves Money

While it might be costly to put up a window in an emergency, you’ll save money over the long term. By securing your windows and doors by using boards, you will reduce drafts that cause heat to escape from your home or commercial property. As a result, you will see lower energy bills during the wintertime.

Boards are easily accessible and affordable, making them an excellent choice for temporary protection against the ravages of a storm. However, before you make use of them to protect your property, you must be sure to measure each window. Make sure you measure horizontally inside the trim and vertically from the bottom of the top trim to the sill. Add eight inches to the width and height of both to ensure a tight fitting and to allow for expansion in a storm. You will also need a saw to cut the plywood OSB and a drill to facilitate mounting. For the best results, you should put the boards up before an expected storm and then leave them in place until the conditions are safe.

A reputable boarding up business will complete the job quicker and more efficiently than anyone trying to do it by themselves. Professionals will use hurricane clips instead of nails to attach the boards to the property, which will prevent damage to the frames. They can also dismantle the boards after the storm has passed and restore your property to its original condition.

If you are an owner of commercial properties, then a broken window could be a major problem. It’s not just a problem for the appearance of your building, but it can also lead to theft and other security concerns. By boarding up windows that are broken, you will stop criminals and other opportunists from gaining access to your property until the window can be replaced.

It is also recommended to board any vacant property you own. Vacant properties are more likely to be targeted by squatters as well as are easy targets for arsonists, therefore this is a crucial step for keeping your property secure until it is used again.