Boarding Up Windows and Doors Before a Storm Hits In the event of a storm the windows and doors will protect you from damage. You will need a few items to do this. Take measurements of the width and height of the window, including the frame (not the trim or masonry that surrounds the window). 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. This will minimize property damage and reduce the risk of death. It takes lots of planning to build a board around windows. You must purchase and measure plywood boards and you should be aware of the exact dimensions of each window. It also takes time to cut the boards and put them up them correctly. The process can be simplified by beginning the preparations when you learn of the possibility of a storm affecting your area. You will avoid having to rush in the last minute and make it easier for you and your employees. Start by listening to the forecasters for weather and follow the guidelines laid out by your local government. The earlier you begin the process, you'll have more time to collect the materials and store them without being overwhelmed by an approaching storm. Depending on the severity of the event, you may need huge quantities of plywood to cover all your windows. Use a tape measure to determine the height and width for each window opening. Be sure you consider the framing or trim that surrounds each window as well as any extended sills when applicable. Next, calculate the dimensions of the plywood sheets you require by dividing your window's total width and height by 2. If your window is wide of 16 inches, then the thickness of each sheet is 8 inches. If you have wood exterior, drill pilot holes in the plywood sheet to align with the window frame underneath to reduce splitting when you screw into the screws. To make sure that the window's opening is greater than the size of a single sheet of plywood can handle cut two sheets that are each half the size of the desired window and place them side-by-side on the wall. Cut a 2 by 4 inches (5.1 10.2 cm) 10.2 cm) of lumber to the length of the connecting edge between the sheets of plywood and then place it on the top of the seam. Then 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 ensure safety and security, use only materials that are durable and will not break or shatter in strong winds. Plywood is a popular material to board up windows. It is simple to use, inexpensive and readily available. Select plywood that is exterior grade (CDX), as it is more durable and have fewer knots and warps. Storm shutters or hurricane shutters are a more robust option. They can be installed over existing windows and offer greater protection against broken glasses and storms. Once you've determined the location of your windows then measure the height and width of each to determine how much plywood you'll need. Utilize a power drill to make pilot holes into the plywood sheets around the windows at intervals of two inches. Mark the studs on the wall prior to attaching the plywood to ensure that the boards are securely fastened. If your home is constructed with wood siding, search for nailheads that may indicate the locations of studs. In other cases, you can search for stud positions using your drill. Screws should be driven into the framing, not the sheathing or trim. A plywood panel that is attached only to these materials can cause a safety risk in severe winds. If the size of your window is too big for a single sheet of plywood, cut two pieces that are each the size you need and join them with 2 by 4 inches of lumber. Label each piece of plywood to let you know which window it will be covering. Make sure you use corrosion-resistant screws that are long enough to penetrate the sheathing as well as the studs to secure the plywood panels to the wall. Make sure to insert the screws into the studs so that they are about half as deep as the plywood is thick, but be careful not to go too far and cause damage to the structure of your house. In addition to securing your windows, it is also advisable to install a "No Trespassing" sign on the property and consider installing polycarbonate security glass like DefenseLite over your windows. These transparent shields are bonded to existing glass and shield your windows and door. They are virtually unbreakable and discourage burglars from breaking into the house. Installation If you live or intend to move to an area susceptible to hurricanes and are concerned about the possibility of a storm, it's best to board up all your doors and windows. This task can be accomplished quickly and efficiently, however only if the plywood panels are cut, measured and labeled prior to the storm. You'll require other tools as well, including drills, saws (or a hammer with nails if you do not have an electric tool) as well as the level, gloves and safety glasses. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/oldham-emergency-boarding-up-near-me/ 's a good idea to apply sealant to the plywood, as well, to make it waterproof. Begin by taking measurements of the width and height of each window opening, and then cutting the plywood sheets so that they fit within the frames with a 4-inch overlap on all sides. It is recommended to cut the sheets on site, since it gives you more control over the precise dimensions of the plywood. Cut the boards to the desired size with a track or circular saw. Once installed, you will need to sand all of them. Once you've got your boards in place, screw 3 inch stainless steel hanger bolts into the framing studs around each window. Use washers on each bolt and wings nuts to ensure they are secured. Make sure that each screw gets through the studs by at least 2 inches to ensure the board is strong enough to resist high winds. If you are building with concrete blocks, you can connect the plywood using galvanized pan head screws which are driven into the edges of the panels into masonry or cinder block. You'll also have to drill pilot holes into the masonry and then insert corrosion-resistant screws into the holes. It's a project that could take as long as three hours per window, which is why it's essential to begin the process when you learn that a hurricane watch has been issued. This will give you enough time to complete the task before the storm arrives. Maintenance If you're a homeowner or business owner, it is essential to have the right materials to secure doors and windows ahead of a severe storm. This can save you from costly repairs and also protect your property from further damage resulting from wind, rain, flying debris and other elements that can impact the windows. The appropriate materials will make boarding easier and quicker. It is essential to accurately measure every window. This will ensure that the OSB or plywood fits snugly and will not fall off easily. If you're using plywood make sure you use exterior grade sheets, and consider adding an extra layer of protection. Mark the locations where the screws will need to be placed into the board after you have measured the OSB or plywood. Utilize a drill to predrill holes at 12-inch intervals into the plywood. This allows you to securely attach the boards to hanger bolts during an emergency or in the event of a disaster. When the storm has passed and the local authorities have given you the all-clear, remove the bolts but keep them for future emergencies. The next step is to put the plywood panels on top of the windows. Be prepared to work in pairs. If you're using plywood ensure that you sand the edges to ensure they're smooth and won't scratch your paint or trim. Then make use of corrosion-resistant screws attach the plywood using the pilot holes. If your home has vinyl shingles on it, attach the plywood directly to the shingles and not to the wood framing. A window that has been boarded up may be used to deter burglars. Burglars are more likely to take aim at a structure that has a damaged or unlocked window. They're also more likely to enter an establishment that's been closed as opposed to one that's not. This is something that retail business owners must take seriously.