9 Signs That You're The Boarding Up Windows Expert

The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows Boarding up windows is a way to protect your property from potential storm damage. But, it's an labor-intensive job and should be done with the help of another person. Measure your windows to make sure the plywood will fit comfortably. Make sure you have the power drill and circular saw to cut the boards. Seals Windows The practice of boarding windows is a tried and true method to protect your home in the event of an incoming storm. It's a relatively simple process that requires only a few tools and some time to complete, but it can be extremely efficient. The main reason to board up windows is to create an physical barrier to the glass, which stops it from being damaged by debris during a hurricane or other severe weather event. The boarding is typically constructed of plywood and fixed to the frame of the window by nail or screw. There are other materials that could be used to cover windows like duct tape or zip ties, but plywood is affordable and easy to work with, making it an obvious choice. Measure the height and width for each window prior to you begin the boarding process. This will allow you to cut a 5/8-inch thickness of exterior-grade plywood (OSB) or oriented-strand board. The dimensions of the plywood should match the size of your window frame. Leave an inch gap. There should be a four inch gap between the edge 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 designed to be attached to the studs of a house and are available at most hardware stores or home improvement stores. The plywood holes should be drilled with an appropriate diameter to match the hanger bolts and spaced apart by a minimum of 2 inches on all sides. When the storm has passed and the plywood has been removed the bolts are removed from the studs. It is essential to begin the process of boarding your home whenever you can once a hurricane watch is issued. This will enable you to ensure that you have enough plywood to safeguard your home and also give you the chance to spot any issues prior to the storm arrives. The entire process should take approximately 30 minutes per window and should be done by two people. Prevents break-ins One of the primary reasons that property owners choose to the practice of boarding up windows is that it acts as a deterrent to burglars. Burglars tend to target homes that they know they can easily enter. If they see a property that is boarded up, they might be hesitant before attempting to enter. The windows that are boarded up also stop burglars from being able to see inside the building. This is a significant security advantage. A great way to safeguard your property is by board up windows. If you live in an area that is susceptible to extreme weather, you should board up windows to shield your property. By covering windows with plywood snow, rain, and other debris are unable to be able to enter, which could save you a significant amount of money on costly repairs and replacements. When you are deciding how to encase your windows, it is essential to choose the correct materials. boarding up company is exterior grade plywood, which will stand up to the elements. You will also require drilling tools to create holes in the plywood along with screws and caulk or putty to seal the holes. Be sure to take measurements of the window openings prior to when you begin and mark the locations where screws will be placed. Also, note the plywood panel that is attached to each window or door. Once you have all the materials, it's time to affix your windows. While boarding windows up can prevent burglaries, this technique isn't foolproof. It is still possible for burglars to circumvent the boarding, and it is not always simple to install. If you are relying solely on boarding your windows, you could overlook other security measures which can protect your home. One of the most effective ways to prevent burglaries is by installing security fencing. This is a great option for vacant properties and can be an excellent addition to boarding up your windows. But, this option is not the best choice for commercial or residential buildings that want to maintain a level of curb appeal. Reduces Heat Loss The act of boarding up your windows will not only protect your home from burglars, but it will also help reduce the amount of heat that escapes through your windows. Inefficient window glass is responsible for about two-thirds the loss of heat in a building or home. Radiation, convection, and conduction are all involved. Radiation occurs when warm window glass comes into contact with cold air which causes it to radiate heat away. Convection happens the process where hot air rises and colder air moves in to replace it. Conduction occurs when heat flows through a window's frame which is often composed of steel. Broken windows can be a major issue for many businesses and homeowners regardless of whether it's due to severe weather or vandalism. The boarded-up window will hide any jagged or rough edges, and it will allow you to keep your business open while the window is repaired. This is particularly crucial for commercial spaces that can be vulnerable to theft by thieves who do not want to be seen through the windows. There are a few alternatives to plywood boards to protect against storm damage however they don't offer the same degree of security as a solid piece of wood covering a window. Roll-down hurricane shutters are used to shield homes during storms. However, they could cause danger in the event that they are not properly secured and take time to put in and take away. Another option is to use strips of self-stick weather sealing that you cut to fit the window's dimensions. The seals can be pressed into place to seal gaps that let in cold air and allow warm air to escape. Consider installing windows that are energy efficient with low-e coatings on glass that allows the sun's heat to pass through and block other forms of heat transfer. Also consider a draft stopper, which is a simple tube of fabric that is placed on the bottom of your window to prevent cold air from leaking in. These options may be more expensive than a complete window replacement, but they will help reduce your energy costs in the long run. Savings on Money While boarding up windows may seem like a costly service to offer in an emergency situation, it actually saves you money over the long-term. By securing your doors and windows with boards, you can reduce drafts that cause heat to escape from the home or commercial space. As a result you will pay lower energy bills during the winter months. Boards are easily available and inexpensive they are a great alternative for temporary protection from a storm. But before you make use of them to protect your property, you need to carefully measure every window. Be sure to take measurements horizontally within 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 during an event like a hurricane. You will also need a saw to cut the plywood OSB and a drill to facilitate mounting. Install the boards prior to the storm, and then remove them when the weather is safe. A professional boarding-up company can complete the task faster and more efficiently than a person trying to do it by themselves. The professionals will employ hurricane clips instead of nails to adhere the boards to the property, preventing damage to the frames. They can also remove the boards after the storm passes and return your property back to its original condition. A window that is damaged can be a big problem for commercial property owners. It's not just a problem for the appearance of your property, but also lead to thefts and other security concerns. The act of boarding these windows will prevent criminals and other opportunists from gaining access to your property until the window is able to be repaired. It is also recommended to board up any vacant properties you own. Vacant properties are more likely to be targeted by squatters and are easy targets for arsonists, which is why this is an essential step to keep your property secure until it is used again.