The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
Boarding up windows is one way to safeguard your home from damage caused by storms. It is a difficult job that requires the assistance of another person.
Take measurements of your windows to ensure that the plywood will fit perfectly. Also, ensure that you have a circular saw as well as a power drill to cut the boards.
Seals Windows
It's a tried and reliable method of protecting your property from a storm. It's a simple process that requires only the use of a few tools and some time but can be very effective.
The idea of boarding windows serves an important purpose that is to stop the glass from breaking because of debris during a storm or other severe weather. The boarding is typically made of plywood and attached to the window frame using either a screw or nail. Other materials, such as zip ties or duct tape, can be used to board windows. However plywood is affordable and easy to work with, making it an ideal option.
To begin the boarding process, take measurements of the height and width of each window. Utilizing this information, cut a sheet of 5/8-inch thick exterior grade plywood or oriented Strand Board (OSB). Make sure that the dimensions of the plywood meet the dimensions of the window frame and leave 1 inch of space There should be a 4 inch gap between the edge of the plywood and the window frame in order to allow for expansion.
After the plywood has been cut to size, screw it into the frame using hanger bolts as well as nuts. These bolts can be found in a variety of hardware stores and home improvement centers. They are designed to be attached directly to the studs of the house. The holes in the plywood must be made to match the diameter of the hanger bolts, and should be spaced at minimum 2 inches on all sides. After the storm has ended and the plywood has been removed the bolts are removed from the studs.
If a hurricane warning has been issued, it's important to begin the boarding process as soon as possible. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to secure your home, and also give you the chance to identify any issues before the storm hits. The whole process should take around 30 minutes per window and should be done by two people.
Prevents break-ins
Boarding up windows can be a great deterrent for burglars. Burglars usually target homes they know they can easily break into and, if they notice that a house has been boarded up, they will think twice about trying to enter it. The windows that are boarded up prevent burglars from having access to the building. This is an important security advantage.
The act of boarding up windows is an effective way to shield your property from weather. If you live in an area that is susceptible to severe weather, boarding windows can protect your home from damage. By covering windows with plywood, you can prevent rain, snow, and other debris from getting in. This can save you money on costly repairs and replacements.
When deciding on how to board up your windows, it's essential to choose the correct materials. Exterior-grade plywood is generally the best choice as it will hold up against the elements. You will also require drills to create holes in the plywood as well as screws, putty or caulk to close the holes. Before you begin, be sure to measure the window openings and mark where the screws will go. Also, note down which plywood panel is for each window or door. Once you have all the items, it's time to start boarding up your windows.
Although boarding up windows can deter burglaries, this technique isn't foolproof. Even though the boarding is difficult to install, it's possible for burglars find a way around it. If you rely solely on the boarding of your windows, you might miss other security measures that can protect your home.
One of the most effective methods to stop burglaries is installing security fencing. This is a great option for vacant properties and could be an ideal complement to the idea of boarding your windows. However, this method is not suitable for commercial or residential structures that wish to keep the curb appeal.
Reduces Heat Loss
In addition to keeping your home safe from break-ins, boarding up windows can cut down on the amount of heat that escapes through your windows. About two-thirds of the heat loss from a house or building is due inefficient window glass. Convection, radiation, and conduction are all involved. Radiation occurs when warm windows glass is in contact with cold air, which causes it to radiate heat away. Convection happens the process where hot air rises and colder air enters to replace it. Conduction is the process by which heat passes through the window frame, which is usually made of metal.
gillingham emergency boarding up that are severe or vandalism, breaking windows is a frequent issue that homeowners and businesses have to deal with. By boarding up a window, you can hide any jagged or rough edges and lets you keep your business open until the window is repaired. This is particularly important for commercial spaces which are prone to robbery attempts by thieves who wish to avoid being seen through the window.
There are many alternatives to plywood boards to protect against storm damage, but they don't provide the same degree of security as a sturdy piece of wood covering a window. For example roll-down hurricane shutters can be popular for insulating homes during storms, however they can create a safety hazard when they are not properly anchored and require a long time to set up and remove. You can also install self-stick rubber weather seals can be cut to the exact measurements of your windows. The seals can be pressed down to seal gaps that allow cold air and allow warm air to escape.
Consider installing windows that are energy efficient with low-e coated glass that allows sun's heat to pass through, while blocking other types of heat transfer. Consider a draft stopper. It's a simple tube of fabric that is placed on the bottom of your windows and stops cold, escaping air. These options are more expensive than a complete window replacement, but they will help you save money on energy in the long run.
Savings on Money
While it might be costly to cover windows in an emergency, you will actually save money over the long term. By sealing doors and windows, you can reduce drafts that cause heat to escape from the home or office. Also, you will see the reduction in your winter energy costs.
Boards are inexpensive and easily accessible and are a good choice for temporary protection against storms. Before you can make use of them as a protection for your property you must measure every window. Make sure you measure horizontally inside the trim and vertically from the bottom of the top trim to the sill. Then, add eight inches to both the width and height to ensure a perfect fit and allow for expansion in the event of a storm. A saw is required to cut OSB or plywood, and a drill is needed for mounting. Install the boards prior to the storm, and then take them off when the weather is stable.
A professional boarding-up company can do the job faster and more efficiently than someone trying to do it on their own. The professionals will employ hurricane clips instead of nails to attach the boards to the property, preventing damage to the frames. They can also remove the boards after the storm has passed and restore your property back to its original condition.
If you are a property owner for a commercial business and you have a window that is broken, it can be a major issue. It's not just a problem for the appearance of your property but it can also cause thefts and other security concerns. Boarding up the broken windows will keep thieves and opportunists out of your property until you can replace it.
It is also recommended to board any vacant property you own. The properties that are vacant are more likely to be targeted by squatters as well as are easily targets for arsonists, which is why this is an essential step to keep your property safe until it can be used again.