Boarding Up Windows and Doors Before a Storm Hits
Boarding up your windows and doorways before the storm hits can offer an effective protection against damage. To do this, you should have a few things in your desk.
First, take measurements of the window's height and width, including the framing (not the trim around it or masonry). Keep these measurements in mind so you won't forget.
Preparation
It is recommended to put up a board on your windows and doors prior to an event like a hurricane or natural disaster. This will limit property damage and reduce the chance of dying. It takes an enormous amount of planning to board up windows. You will need to purchase and measure plywood boards and you must know the exact dimensions of each window. It takes time to cut and put in the boards correctly. The process can be simplified by starting the preparations when you learn of the possibility of a storm affecting your area. If you do this, you can avoid a stressful last-minute rush and make the process much simpler for you and your employees.
Start by listening to the forecasters for weather and follow the guidelines provided by your local government. The earlier you start the process, the better, as it allows you time to collect and store the needed items without being pushed by a rapidly approaching storm. It is possible that you will require a large amount of plywood to cover your windows dependent on the severity and speed of the storm. Use a tape measure to determine the height and width of each window opening. Make sure to take into account the trim or framing surrounding each window as well as any extended sills when applicable.
Divide the width and the height of your window by 2 to determine the number of plywood sheets that you'll need. For instance, if the width of your window is 16 inches, the thickness of each sheet should be 8 inches. If you have an exterior made of wood, you should drill pilot holes into the plywood sheet to align with the window frame underneath to prevent splitting when you screw in the screws.
To make sure that the window's opening is greater than the size of a single sheet of plywood can take cut two sheets that are each half the size of the intended window and set them side-byside on the wall. Then cut a piece of 2 by 4 in (5.1 by 10.2 cm) lumber to the length of the connecting edge of the plywood sheets and then place it over the seam. Then, drive 2.25 in (5.7 cm) screws through the bracing and into the plywood sheet to join them.
Materials
To ensure security and safety for security and safety, boarding up windows and doors should be done using only sturdy materials that will not break under pressure or splinter in high winds. Plywood is the most common material used to encase windows. It is easy to use, inexpensive and easily available. Choose plywood that is of the exterior grade (CDX) since it is stronger and will contain fewer warps and knots. Storm shutters, also known as hurricane shutters, are a more durable option. They can be put in over windows that are already in place and offer better protection against shattered glasses and inclement weather.
Once you've determined the location of your window openings then measure the height and width of each one to determine how much plywood you'll require. Utilize a power drill to drill pilot holes into the plywood sheets around each window at two-inch intervals. Before attaching the plywood, you must identify and mark stud locations on the wall to ensure that the boards are fastened securely. If your home is constructed with wood siding, search for nailheads that might indicate the location of studs. You could also use your drill to find the locations of studs. Drive the screws into the framing, not into the trim or sheathing. A plywood panel bonded to these materials alone could become a safety hazard during high winds.
If your window is too big for one sheet of plywood, you can cut two pieces of plywood that are each half of the size needed and join them with two by four inches of lumber. Label each plywood piece to let you know what window it will be covering.
To secure the plywood panels to the wall, make use of corrosion-resistant screws that are long enough to get through both the sheathing and the studs. To secure the plywood panels to the wall, make use of corrosion-resistant screws that are long enough to penetrate the sheathing as well as the studs.
You should also think about installing polycarbonate security glass such as DefenseLite on your windows that are primary. These transparent shields are fixed over existing glazing and protect 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 susceptible to hurricanes, or plan to move to one, the best course of action is to secure your doors and windows prior to the possibility of a storm is afoot. This project can be completed quickly and efficiently, but only if the plywood panels are cut, measured, and labeled before the storm.
You'll also require other tools, including a drill (or an hammer and nails in the event that you don't have a power drill), a saw, tape, an apron, gloves and safety glasses. It's a good idea coat the plywood with sealant and make it waterproof.
Begin by taking measurements of the width and height of each window opening, and then cutting your plywood sheets to ensure they fit within the frames, with an overlap of 4 inches on all sides. This is best done on the spot as you are more in control of the exact dimensions.
Cut the boards to the size you want using a circular or track saw. Once they're installed it is necessary to sand down all of them. Once you've got your boards in place, screw three-inch stainless steel hanger bolts into the framing studs that surround each window. Use washers on each bolt, and wing nuts to ensure they are secured. Make sure that each screw penetrates 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 blocks, you can instead join the plywood to the building by using galvanized pan-head screws that are driven through the edges that are overlapping of each piece into cinder blocks or masonry blocks. You'll also have to drill pilot holes into the masonry and then screw corrosion-resistant screws into the holes. This project can take three hours for each window. It is crucial to begin the project as soon when a hurricane warning has been issued. This will give you time to finish the project prior to the time when the storm is expected to hit.
Maintenance
If you're a homeowner, or business owner, you should have the right materials to secure windows and doors in advance of an extreme storm. This will help you avoid costly repairs and protect your home from further damage caused by rain, wind flying objects, and other factors.
The right materials will make the boarding up process much easier and quicker to complete. It is essential to precisely measure the windows. This will ensure that the plywood or OSB is snugly fitted and won't fall off easily. If you're using plywood ensure that you are using exterior-grade sheets and consider adding a protective finish.
Once you have the OSB or plywood taken measurements, mark the locations where screws will go into the board. Then, you can use a drill to drill holes into the plywood at 12-inch intervals. This allows you to securely attach the boards to hanger bolts during a disaster or emergency situation. After the storm has passed and you've received all-clear from local authorities, take off the hanger bolts but keep them in place for future emergency situations.
The next step is to place the plywood panels over the windows. This is a job for two people, so be prepared before you start. If you're using plywood ensure that you sand the edges so that they are smooth and won't scratch your paint or trim. Then make use of corrosion-resistant screws join the plywood with the pilot holes. If your home has shingles made of vinyl it, attach the plywood directly to the shingles, and not to the wood framing.
A window that is boarded up can be used to deter burglars. Burglars are more likely to attack a building with a broken or unlocked window. Also, altrincham boarding up services are more likely to break in the store with a boarded up window than one without. This is something that retail business owners should consider very seriously.