The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows Protecting your property against damage from storms is achievable with making windows a board. It's a daunting task that requires the help of another person. Before you start the process make sure you measure your windows accurately to ensure that the plywood fits perfectly. Also, make sure you have a circular saw and power drill 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 a storm. It's a fairly simple process that requires only a few tools and a bit of time but it's extremely efficient. The main reason to board up windows is to create an enveloping physical layer over the glass, which stops it from breaking due to debris in the event of a hurricane or another extreme weather event. The boarding is usually made of plywood and attached to the window frame with a nail or screw. Other materials, like zip ties or duct tape, can be used to affix the boarding to windows. However plywood is cheap and simple to use, making it an extremely popular choice. Measure the height and width for each window before you begin the boarding process. Utilizing this information, cut a 5/8-inch thick exterior-grade plywood or oriented string board (OSB). Make sure that the dimensions of the plywood meet the dimensions of the window frame and leave 1 inch of space There should be a 4 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 found in most hardware stores and home improvement centers. They are designed to be attached directly to the studs on the exterior of a home. The holes in the plywood must be drilled to match the diameter of the hanger bolts, and should be spaced at minimum 2 inches on all sides. When the storm has passed and the plywood has been removed, the hanger bolts can be removed and unscrewed from the studs of the house. It is important to start the process of boarding up as soon as possible, after a hurricane warning has been issued. This will allow you to ensure that you have enough plywood to safeguard your home and give you the chance to spot any issues prior to the storm hits. The entire process should only take a couple of minutes per time. Preventing break-ins One of the primary reasons why property owners use the practice of boarding up windows is that it acts as a deterrent for burglars. Burglars are known to target homes that they know they can break into and, if they notice the property is boarded up, they'll think twice about trying to enter the property. The windows that are boarded up also stop burglars from having access to the house. This is an important security benefit. Boarding up windows is also a good way to protect your property from weather. If you live in a region that is susceptible to severe weather, board up windows to protect your property. By covering windows with plywood, you can stop snow, rain and other debris from getting inside. This will save you money on expensive repairs and replacements. When you're deciding on the best way to frame your windows, it's important to choose the right materials. The exterior grade plywood is typically the best choice, since it is durable against the elements. You will require 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 the window openings and note where the screws will go. It is also important to note which plywood panel is for each window or door. Once you have all the materials, it is time to begin boarding your windows. While boarding up your windows can help to protect against burglaries, it's not 100% secure. It is still possible for burglars to get around the boarding, and it's not always simple to install. If you only rely on the boarding of your windows, you might overlook other security measures that can protect your home. Installing security fencing is one of the best methods to deter burglaries. This is a great solution for vacant properties and could be an ideal complement to the idea of boarding your windows. This solution is not suitable for commercial or residential buildings that want to keep the curb appeal. Reduces Heat Loss In addition to keeping your home safe from break-ins, boarding up windows can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through your windows. About two-thirds of the heat loss from a home or building is due to inefficient window glass. Radiation, convection, and conduction are all involved. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/ilford-emergency-boarding-up-near-me/ occurs when warm window glass comes into contact with cold air which causes it to radiate heat away. Convection occurs when hot air rises before colder air replaces it. And conduction is the process of transferring heat through a window's frame, which is usually composed of steel. Broken windows can be a problem for homeowners and businesses alike, whether it is due to extreme weather or vandalism. Boarding up a window conceals any jagged or rough edges, and allows you to keep your business open until the window is repaired. This is especially important for commercial spaces that are prone to robbery by thieves who aren't keen on being observed through windows. There are some alternatives to plywood to protect against storm damage. However, they do not provide the same level security as a solid piece wood covering your window. For example roll-down hurricane shutters are popular for insulating homes in storms, however they can create a safety hazard when they are not properly anchored and require a long time to install and remove. Another option is to use strips of self-stick rubber weather sealing that you cut to match your window dimensions. The seals can be pressed down to seal gaps that let in cold air while allowing warm air to escape. If you're looking for a more long-term solution, you should consider installing energy efficient windows that have low-e coatings, which allow the sun's radiant heat to penetrate while preventing the transfer of other kinds of heat. Also consider draft stoppers which is a basic fabric tube that sits in the bottom of your window, and stops cold air from getting in. These options can be more costly than a full window replacement, but they can help reduce your energy costs in the long term. Savings on Money While it might be costly to put up a window in the event of an emergency, you will actually save money in the long run. By sealing your doors and windows by using boards, you will reduce drafts that cause heat to escape from the home or commercial space. You can also expect an improvement in your winter energy costs. Boards are cheap and easily accessible which makes them a great choice for temporary protection from the elements. Before you can use them as protection for your property you must measure every window. Measure horizontally inside the trim and vertically between the bottom of the top trim and the sill. Add eight inches to the height and width of both to ensure a tight fit and to allow for expansion in a storm. You will also require a saw to cut the plywood OSB and a drill to facilitate mounting. Install the boards prior to the storm, and then take them off when the weather is stable. A professional boarding up company can do the job faster and more efficiently than someone trying to do it themselves. The professionals will use hurricane clip instead of nails to secure the boards to your property, preventing any damage to the frames. After the storm, they'll take down the boards and restore your property back to its original condition. A window that is damaged can be a big problem for commercial property owners. Not only does it ruin the appearance of your building but it can also lead to theft and other security concerns. The act of boarding up windows that are broken will keep criminals and opportunists away from your property until you are able to replace it. It is also an excellent idea to secure vacant properties that you own. Properties that are vacant are more likely to be targeted by squatters and are easily targets for arsonists, which is why this is an essential step to keep your property secure until it is used again.