The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
Protecting your home from damage from storms is achievable with making windows a board. However, it is an labor-intensive job and should be completed with the assistance of a third party.
Take measurements of your windows to ensure the plywood will fit comfortably. Make sure you have the circular saw and power drill 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 incoming storm. It's a fairly simple process that requires only a few tools and a little time to complete, but it can be extremely effective.
The primary reason for boarding up windows is to provide an enveloping physical layer over the glass, which prevents it from being damaged by debris in the event of a hurricane or another severe weather event. The boarding is typically constructed from plywood, and is secured to the frame of the window using either a nail or screw. Other materials, like zip ties or duct tape, can be used to board windows. However plywood is cheap and simple to use, 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 5/8-inch thick exterior grade plywood or oriented string board (OSB). Make sure the dimensions of the plywood meet the dimensions of the window frame, and leave one inch. A gap of 4 inches between the edges of the plywood and the window frame to allow for expansion.
After the plywood has been cut to size, screw into the hanger bolts using nuts. These bolts are made to attach to the studs in a house, and can be purchased at most hardware stores or home improvement centers. The holes in the plywood need to be made to match the diameter of the hanger bolts, and should be spaced at 2 inches from all sides. After the storm is over and the plywood is removed and the bolts removed, they can be removed from the studs.
It is essential to begin the process of boarding your home whenever you can when a hurricane watch has been issued. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to protect your home and give you the chance to identify any problems before the storm strikes. The entire process should only take about 30 minutes per time.
Prevents break-ins
The idea of boarding up windows is a great deterrent to burglars. sutton boarding up windows will target properties that they know they can easily enter. If they see the property boarded up they may think twice before trying to get in. The windows that are boarded up also stop burglars from having access to the property. This is a significant security benefit.
The act of boarding up windows is an effective way to shield your property from the elements. If you live in an area that is prone to severe weather, boarding windows can help prevent damage to your property. By covering windows with plywood, rain, snow and other debris are unable to get in, which can save you lots of money on costly repairs and replacements.
It is important to select the appropriate materials when you are deciding how to board your windows. The best choice is exterior grade plywood, which will be able to withstand the elements. You will need a drill to drill holes in the plywood, along with screws caulk, putty or caulk for sealing the holes. Before you begin, make sure to measure your window openings and mark where the screws will go. You should also note the type of plywood that goes with each window or door. Once you've got all the supplies, it's the time to put up the windows.
Although boarding up windows can deter burglaries, this method isn't foolproof. Although the boarding is difficult to put up, it is possible for burglars find a way around it. If you rely solely on boarding your windows, you could miss other security measures that could safeguard your property.
Installing a security fence is among the best methods to stop burglaries. This is a fantastic option for vacant properties and could be an alternative to blocking your windows. However, this solution is not suitable for commercial or residential buildings which want to maintain a level of curb appeal.
Reduces Heat Loss
In addition to safeguarding your home from burglaries, boarding your windows can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through your windows. Window glass that is inefficient is responsible for about two-thirds the loss of heat in homes or buildings. Convection, radiation, and conduction are all involved. Radiation occurs when warm air comes into contact with cold glass that causes the glass to emit heat away from your body and home. Convection occurs when hot air rises, and colder air replaces it. Conduction is the way that heat passes through the window frame, which is typically made of metal.
Breaking windows can be a major issue for homeowners and businesses alike, whether it is due to severe weather or vandalism. Boarding up a window conceals any rough or jagged edges, and allows you to keep your business open until the window is repaired. This is particularly important for commercial spaces that are prone to robbery by thieves who aren't keen on being observed through windows.
There are other alternatives to plywood to protect against storm damage. However they don't offer the same level of security as a solid piece of wood that covers your window. For instance 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 put up and take down. You can also install self-sticking rubber weather seals that can be cut to fit the exact dimensions of your windows. The seals can be pressed into place to seal gaps that let in cold air while allowing warm air to escape.
If you're seeking a long-term solution, you should consider installing energy efficient windows with low-e coatings that permit the sun's radiant heat to penetrate while blocking the thermal transfer of other kinds of heat. Also consider draft stoppers that is a simple tube of fabric that is placed on the bottom of your window to prevent cold air from getting in. These options are more expensive than a full window replacement, but they can reduce your energy costs in the long term.
Saves Money
While boarding up windows might seem like a costly service to offer in a crisis, it actually saves you money over the long-term. By sealing windows and doors, you can reduce drafts which cause heat to escape from your home or business. You can also expect an improvement in your winter energy bills.
Boards are readily available and cheap, making them an excellent option for temporary protection against a storm. Before you can use them as protection for your home you must measure each window. Measure horizontally inside the trim and vertically between the bottom of the top trim and the sill. Then, add eight inches to the width and height to ensure a tight fit and allow for expansion during a storm. You will also need a saw to cut the plywood OSB, and a drill for mounting. For the best results, it is recommended to install the boards prior to when an expected storm and wait to remove them until the weather conditions are safe.
A reputable boarding-up service will be able to complete the job faster and more effectively than an individual trying to do it on their own. These professionals use hurricane clips instead of nails to attach the boards to your property, preventing any damage to the frames. After the storm, they can remove all the boards and return your property to its original state.
A broken window can be a major issue for commercial property owners. It's not just a problem for the appearance of your building however, it could cause theft and other security issues. By boarding up windows that are broken, you will prevent criminals and other opportunists from gaining access to your property until the window is able to be replaced.
It is also a good idea to secure vacant properties 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 to keep your property safe until it can be used again.