Boarding Up Windows and Doors Before a Storm Hits

When a storm is approaching the windows and doors will protect you from damage. To do this, you'll should have a few items on the go.

First, measure the window's width and height including the framing (not the surrounding trim or masonry). Take note of these measurements so that you don't forget.

Preparation

It is recommended to put up a board on doors and windows prior to a storm or other natural disaster hits. boarding up services will stop property damage and reduce the loss of life. It takes an enormous amount of planning to put up windows. You will need to purchase and measure plywood boards and you need to be aware of the specific dimensions of each window. It also takes time to cut the boards and put them up them properly. Fortunately, the process can be made simpler by preparing when you first hear of a possible storm coming in your area. If you do this, you can avoid a stressful last-minute rush and make the process simpler for you and your staff.

Begin by listening to weather forecasters and following the guidelines laid out by your local government. If you start earlier in the process, you will be able to gather the materials and keep them in storage without being overwhelmed by the approaching storm. You may require a substantial amount of plywood to cover your windows, dependent on the severity and intensity of the storm. To ensure you get the right size, make use of a tape measure determine the width and height of each window opening. Make sure to include the trim or framing around each window, as well as any extended ledges if applicable.

Next, calculate the size of the sheets of plywood you require by dividing the total window height and width by 2. If your window measures a width of 16 inches, the thickness of each sheet is 8 inches. If your exterior is made of wood, make pilot holes in the plywood sheet so that they align with the window frame below. This will prevent splitting when you screw in the screws.

If the window opening is larger than what one sheet of plywood can handle, cut two separate sheets that are each half the size of the desired 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 sheets of plywood and lay it over the seam. Then screw 2.25 in (5.7cm) screws into the plywood sheet, and then through the bracing to join the two together.

Materials

To ensure safety and security ensure safety and security, use only materials that are sturdy and will not break or shatter in strong winds. The most commonly used material to encase windows is plywood, which is inexpensive easily available and simple to work with. Select plywood that is of the exterior grade (CDX) since it is more durable and have less knots and warps. Storm shutters, also known as hurricane shutters, are a more robust option. They can be put in over existing windows and provide better protection against glass breakage and storms.

Once you've determined the location of the window openings, you can measure the height and the width to determine the amount of plywood you'll require. Utilize a power drill to create pilot holes into the plywood sheets around each window at intervals of two inches. Before attaching the plywood, determine and mark the locations of studs on the wall to ensure the boards are anchored securely. If your home has wood siding, search for nailheads that might indicate the locations of studs. You can also use a drill to locate the locations of studs. Be sure to drive the screws into the framing rather than the sheathing or trim; A plywood panel that is fastened to these materials could be an hazard during strong winds.

If your window is too large for one sheet of plywood, you could cut two pieces of plywood that are each half the size and join them using 2 by 4 inches of lumber. Label each plywood panel to let you know what window it will be covering.

To affix the plywood panels to the wall, make use of corrosion-resistant screws that are sufficient in length to penetrate both the sheathing and studs. To attach the plywood panels to the wall, make use of corrosion-resistant screws that are long enough to penetrate the sheathing and the studs.

It is also worth considering installing polycarbonate security glass similar to DefenseLite on your primary windows. These transparent shields bond over existing glazing to protect your doors and windows. They are virtually indestructible, preventing criminals from breaking into.

Installation

If you live in an area that is prone to hurricanes or are planning to move to one, the best course of action is to board up your doors and windows prior to the possibility of a storm is afoot. This project can be completed quickly and efficiently, however only if the boards are measured, cut and labeled prior to the storm arrives.

You'll need other tools as well such as drills, saws (or nail-driven hammer if you do not have the power tool) as well as a level, gloves, and safety glasses. It's also a good idea for the plywood to be sprayed with sealant to make it waterproof.

Start by measuring each window opening's size and height. Then cut your plywood sheets to fit within the frames. This is best done on site as you can control the exact dimensions.

Utilize a circular or track saw to cut the boards to the right size be aware that you'll need to sand them down once they're put in. Once the boards are in place put the 3 inch stainless steel hanger screws into the posts that frame each window. Use washers to secure each bolt and wing nuts. Be sure that each screw penetrates at least 2 inches into the studs to ensure the boarding is strong enough to withstand high winds.

If you're building using concrete blocks, you can join the plywood with pan head screws that are galvanized and which are driven into the edges of the panels into the masonry or cinder block. You'll also need to drill pilot holes in the masonry and then screw corrosion resistant screws into the holes. It's a job that could take as long as three hours for each window, so it's crucial to begin the process immediately after you hear that a hurricane warning has been issued. This will give you ample time to finish the project before the storm hits.

Maintenance

You should be prepared to secure your doors and windows prior to an extreme storm. This can save you money on repairs and shield your home from further damage resulting from wind, rain, flying debris and other elements that could impact windows.

The right materials can make boarding up easier and quicker. It is crucial to precisely measure the windows. This will ensure that the OSB or plywood fits well and will not be able to slide off easily. If you are using plywood, be sure to use sheets made of exterior grade, and consider adding an additional protective finish.

Once you have the OSB or plywood taken measurements, mark the locations where the screws will go into the board. Utilize a drill to predrill holes at intervals of 12 inches into the plywood. This allows you to securely fix the boards using hanger bolts in an emergency or disaster. After the storm has passed and you've received the all-clear by authorities in your area, remove the hanger bolts, but leave them in place for any future emergencies.

The next step is to put the plywood panels on top of the windows. Be prepared to work in pairs. If you are using plywood, sand the edges to make them smooth so that they don't scratch paint or cut. Then make use of corrosion-resistant screws join the plywood with the pilot holes. If your home is lined with shingles made of vinyl it is best to attach the plywood to the shingles rather than the wood framing beneath.

Besides keeping out water and other weather elements, a boarded up window is also an effective method to deter burglaries. Burglars are more likely to target a building that has a locked or broken window. They're also more likely attack a store that's been closed than one without. If you're a retail business owner, this is a matter you should take seriously.