The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows Protecting your property against storm damage is possible by building windows with boards. It's a daunting job that requires the assistance of another person. Before you start the process, measure your windows precisely to ensure that the plywood is sized correctly. Make sure you have the circular saw and power drill to cut the boards. Seals Windows It's a tried and true method to protect your home from storm. It's an easy process that requires only a few basic tools and some time but can be very effective. The main purpose of boarding windows is to create a physical barrier over the glass, which stops it from breaking from debris during a hurricane or other extreme weather event. The boarding is typically made of plywood and is attached to the window frame with a nail or screw. There are other materials that can be used to cover windows such as duct tape and zip ties, however plywood is affordable and easy to work with and is a great option. To begin the boarding process, measure the height and width of each window. This information will help you cut a sheet 5/8-inch thick of exterior-grade plywood (OSB) or oriented-strand board. The dimensions of the plywood should be identical to the size of your window frame. Leave an inch gap. There is a gap of 4 inches between the edges of the plywood and the window frame to allow for expansion. After cutting the plywood to size, you can screw it into the frame using hanger bolts as well as nuts. These bolts are designed to attach to the studs of a house, and can be purchased at a variety of hardware stores or home improvement stores. The plywood holes should be drilled with a diameter that matches the hanger bolts, and spaced apart by at least 2 inches on all sides. After the storm is over and the plywood is removed and the bolts removed, they can be removed from the studs. When a hurricane warning is issued, it is important to begin the boarding-up process as soon as possible. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to protect your home, and also give you the chance to identify any problems before the storm strikes. The entire process should only take two people about 30 minutes per time. Prevents break-ins One of the primary reasons property owners consider boarding up windows is because it acts as a deterrent to burglars. Burglars will target properties that they are aware of the possibility of entering. If they see the property boarding up, they might be hesitant before attempting to gain entry. The windows that are boarded up also stop burglars from having the ability to look inside the property as well, which is a major security benefit. The practice of boarding up windows is an excellent way to protect your property from the elements. If you live in an area that is prone to severe weather, boarding windows can help protect your home from damage. By covering the windows with plywood snow, rain, and other debris are unable to get in, which can save you a significant amount of money on costly repairs and replacements. It is important to select the right materials when deciding how to board your windows. Exterior-grade plywood is usually the best choice as it will hold up against the elements. You will also need a drill to make holes in the plywood, along with screws and putty or caulk to seal the holes. Before you begin, make sure to measure the openings in your windows and note where the screws will go. You should also write down the plywood panel you will need for each door or window. Once you've got all your supplies, it's the time to board up your windows. While boarding your windows can help to stop burglaries, it is not 100% secure. Even though the boarding is difficult to put up, it is possible for burglars to find ways around it. In addition, if you are solely relying on boarding your windows, you might overlook other security measures that can help protect your home. One of the most effective methods to prevent burglaries is by installing security fencing. This is an excellent choice for vacant homes and is an excellent complement to boarding up your windows. But, this option is not suitable for commercial or residential buildings which want to maintain a level of curb appeal. Reduces Heat Loss In addition to keeping your home safe from burglaries, boarding up windows can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through your windows. Around two-thirds of heat loss from a home or building is due inefficient windows. Convection, radiation, and conduction are all involved. Radiation occurs when warm air comes into contact with cold glass, which causes the glass to emit heat away from your body and your home. Convection is when hot air rises, and colder air moves in to replace it. Conduction is the heat that moves through the window frame, which is usually composed of metal. Whether it's severe weather or vandalism, breaking windows is a problem that many businesses and homeowners must deal with. The boarded-up windows will conceal any jagged or rough edges, and allow you to keep your business open while the window is being repaired. This is particularly crucial for commercial spaces that are prone to theft by thieves who aren't keen on being visible through windows. There are several alternatives to plywood boards for storm damage protection however, they do not offer the same level of security as a solid piece of wood that covers a window. For instance, roll-down hurricane shutters are popular for insulating homes in storms, but they can cause a safety risk if they are not properly anchored and take time to put up and take down. There are also self-stick rubber weather seals that can be cut to fit the exact dimensions of your windows. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/eastleigh-emergency-boarding-up-near-me/ can be pressed down to seal gaps that let in cold air and allow warm air to escape. If you are looking for a longer-term solution, think about installing energy efficient windows that have low-e coatings, which allow the sun's radiant heat to penetrate while preventing the transfer of other types of heat. Consider a draft stopper. It's simply a tube of fabric that sits on the bottom of your windows, and blocks cold, escaping air from entering. These options are more expensive than a full window replacement, but they will lower your energy bills over the long haul. Savings on Money While it might be costly to cover windows in the event of an emergency, you will actually save money in the long run. By sealing doors and windows, you can reduce drafts that allow heat to escape from the home or business. You can also expect a reduction in your winter energy bills. Boards are not expensive and easily accessible, making them a good choice for temporary protection against a storm. Before you are able to use them as a security for your property you'll need to measure each window. Measure horizontally inside the trim and vertically between the bottom of the top trim and the sill. Then add eight inches to both the height and width to ensure a tight fit and allow for expansion in the event of a storm. A saw is needed to cut the OSB or plywood, and drills are required to mount the boards. Install the boards before an event and take them off when the weather is stable. A professional boarding up company will complete the job quicker and more efficiently than a person trying to do it by 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 state. 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 it can also cause thefts and other security concerns. The act of boarding these windows will stop criminals and other opportunists from gaining access to your property until the window can be replaced. It is also recommended to board any vacant property you own. This is essential to ensure that your property is safe when it is being used.