The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
Protecting your property against storm damage is possible by board up windows. It's a daunting task that requires the assistance of another person.
Before you start the process make sure you measure your windows accurately to ensure that the plywood is sized correctly. Make sure you have a circular saw and power drill to cut the boards.
Seals Windows
Boarding up windows is a tried-and-true method of protecting your property in the event of an incoming storm. It's a simple procedure that requires just a few tools and some time however, it can be extremely effective.
The purpose of boarding up windows is an important purpose: to prevent the glass from breaking due to debris during the storm or other severe weather. The boarding is typically constructed of plywood and connected to the frame using either a screw or nail. Other materials, like zip ties or duct tape can be used to affix the boarding to windows. However plywood is cheap and easy to use which makes it a popular choice.
To begin the boarding process, take measurements of the width and height of each window. Make use of this information to cut a piece of 5/8-inch thickness exterior-grade plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). Make sure that the dimensions of the plywood are in line with 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 expansion.
After boarding up company near me has been cut to size, screw it into the desired position using hanger bolts and nuts. These bolts are available in most hardware stores and home improvement centers. They are designed to connect directly to the studs on the house. The holes in the plywood need to be drilled to match the diameter of the hanger bolts and should be spaced at minimum 2 inches on all sides. After the storm has passed and the plywood has been removed the hanger bolts may be removed and reattached to the studs of the house.
It is crucial to begin the boarding up process whenever you can after a hurricane warning has been issued. This will help you ensure that you have sufficient plywood to safeguard your home and allow you to find any issues before the storm. The entire process should take about 30 minutes for each time.
Preventing Break-Ins
Boarding up windows can be an effective deterrent for burglars. Burglars tend to target homes that they know they can easily enter. If they see a property that is boarded up they may think twice before attempting to gain entry. Boarded-up windows also prevent burglars being able to view inside the house. This is a crucial security benefit.
Boarding up windows is also an excellent way to protect your home from the elements. If you live in an area that is susceptible to severe weather, boarding windows can help keep your property safe from damage. By covering the windows with plywood, rain, snow and other debris won't get inside, which can save you a significant amount of money on costly repairs and replacements.
When you're deciding on the best way to board up windows, it is essential to choose the correct materials. The exterior grade plywood is typically the best option, as it is durable against the elements. You will also need a drill to make holes in the plywood, as well as screws and putty or caulk to close the holes. Be sure to determine the openings of your windows before you begin, and then mark where screws will be put. Also, note the plywood panel that is attached to each window or door. Once you have the necessary items, it's time to begin boarding your windows.
Although boarding up windows can deter burglaries, this method is not foolproof. Although the boarding is difficult to install, it is possible that burglars will find an escape route. If you only rely on blocking your windows, you could overlook other security measures that could safeguard your property.
One of the most effective ways to deter burglaries is installing security fencing. This is an excellent choice for vacant homes, and it can be a great complement to boarding up windows. However, this method is not a good fit for commercial or residential structures which want to maintain a level of 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. Inefficient window glass is responsible for about two-thirds the heat loss in homes or buildings. This happens through a combination of radiation, convection and conduction. Radiation occurs when warm air contacts cold window glass, which causes the glass to radiate heat away from your body and the home. Convection is when hot air rises, and colder air flows in to replace it. Conduction is the process by which heat is absorbed by the window frame, which is typically constructed of steel.
Broken windows can be a major issue for homeowners and businesses whether because of extreme weather or vandalism. The boarded-up windows will conceal any rough edges or jagged edges, and you can keep your business open while the window is being repaired. This is especially important for commercial buildings which are susceptible to robbery by thieves who aren't keen on being seen through the windows.
There are a few alternatives to plywood boards for storm damage protection however, they do not offer the same degree of security as a solid piece of wood covering windows. For example roll-down hurricane shutters can be popular to help in insulating homes during storms, but they could create a safety hazard when they aren't securely anchored and require a long time to set up and remove. There are also self-sticking rubber weather seals that you can cut to the exact dimensions of your windows. Seals can be pressed into the window to close gaps and allow cold air to get in and warm air to leave.
Consider installing windows that are energy efficient with low-e coated glass that allows the sun's heat to pass through and block other forms of heat transfer. Consider draft stoppers. It's a simple tube of fabric that sits on the bottom of your windows, and blocks the escape of cold air. These options may be more expensive than a complete window replacement, but they'll help reduce your energy costs in the long run.
Savings on Money
While it may seem expensive to board up windows in an emergency, you'll actually save money over the long term. By securing your windows and doors with boards, you reduce drafts that allow heat to escape from the home or commercial property. As a result you will notice lower energy bills during the winter.
Boards are cheap and easily available, making them a good choice for temporary protection against the elements. Before you are able to use them as a security for your property you must take measurements for each window. Be sure to 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 the trim to ensure a secure fitting and to allow for expansion in a storm. A saw is needed to cut the OSB or plywood, and drilling tools are required for mounting. Install the boards before an event and remove them once the weather is safe.
A reputable boarding up business will complete the job quicker and more efficiently than someone trying to do it on their own. Professionals will use hurricane clips instead of nails to secure the boards to the property, preventing damage to the frames. After the storm, they'll remove all the boards and return your property back to its original state.
If you're an owner of commercial properties or manager, a damaged window can be a major issue. It can not only ruin the appearance of your property but also lead to burglaries and other security issues. By boarding up the windows that have broken, you will keep thieves and opportunists away from your property until you can replace it.
It is also a good idea to put up a fence around vacant properties you own. This is crucial to ensure your property is secure even when it is in use.