Boarding Up Windows and Doors Before a Storm Hits The act of boarding up your windows and doorways before a storm strikes can provide an effective protection against damage. You will need several items to accomplish this. Measure the width and height of the window, including the frame (not the trim or masonry surrounding the window). Take note of these measurements so that you won't forget. Preparation It is best to board up your doors and windows before an event like a hurricane or natural disaster. This will limit damage to property and decrease the risk of death. It takes an enormous amount of planning to build a board around windows. You have to buy and measure plywood boards and you need to be aware of the specific dimensions of each window. Additionally, it takes time to cut the boards and put them up them properly. The process can be simplified by starting the preparations immediately you hear of the possibility of a storm affecting your area. By doing so, you can stay clear of a stressful last minute rush and make the process easier for yourself and your employees. Begin by listening to weather forecasters and following the guidelines set by your local government. The earlier you start the process, the better, as it gives you enough time to collect and store the needed materials without feeling pressured by a storm that is rapidly approaching. Depending on the severity of the imminent storm, you might require huge quantities of plywood to cover all of your windows. To ensure you get the correct size, use a tape measure to determine the width and height of each window opening. Make sure to include the framing or trim around each window, and any ledges that are extended, if appropriate. Next, calculate the size of the plywood sheets you need by dividing the total window width and height by two. If your window has a width of 16 inches, then the thickness of each sheet is 8 inches. If your exterior is made of wood, drill pilots holes in the plywood sheet to ensure it is aligned with the window frame below. This will reduce the chance of splitting when you insert the screws. If you have a larger window opening than one sheet of plywood is able to handle cut two sheets of plywood that are each half as big as the window you want to use. Place them side-by-side on the wall. Cut a piece 2 by 4 in (5.1 x 10.2 cm) of lumber to the length the connecting edge between the two sheets of plywood and place it on top of the seam. Then you can drive 2.25 in (5.7 cm) screws through the bracing and into the plywood sheet to join them together. Materials To ensure security and safety, only use materials that are sturdy and will not be damaged or break in high winds. The most common material used to board up windows is plywood, which is affordable accessible and simple to work with. Choose plywood that is exterior grade (CDX), as it will be stronger and contain fewer warps and knots. Storm shutters, also known as hurricane shutters, are a more robust option. They can be put in over existing windows and offer better protection against glass breakage and inclement weather. Once you've identified the location of the window openings, you can measure the height and the width to determine the amount of plywood you'll require. Use a power drill make pilot holes in the plywood sheets around the windows at two-inch intervals. Before attaching the plywood, determine and mark the locations of studs on the wall to ensure the boards are fastened securely. If your home has wood siding, search for nailheads that may indicate the location of studs. You can also use your drill to find the locations of studs. Drive the screws into the framing, not into the sheathing or trim. A plywood panel attached only to these materials can cause a safety risk in the event of high winds. If the size of your window is too large for a single piece of plywood, cut two separate pieces that are each half the size you need and join them together with 2 by 4 inches of lumber. Label each plywood panel to let you know what 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 that will be used to join the plywood panels to the wall. To attach the plywood panels to the wall, use screws made of corrosion-resistant that are long enough to penetrate both the sheathing and the studs. You should also think about installing polycarbonate security glass like DefenseLite on your primary windows. These transparent shields are bonded to existing glass and shield your doors and windows. They are virtually indestructible and can deter burglars from breaking into the house. Installation If you live in an area susceptible to hurricanes, or plan to move to one the best course of action is to board up your doors and windows prior to the threat of a storm approaches. This project can be done quickly and efficiently, but only if you take the time to measure and cut your plywood panels prior to when the storm arrives. You'll also require other tools, including drills (or a hammer and nails for those who don't own a power drill) and tape, a saw gloves, a level and a pair of safety glasses. It's also a good idea for the plywood to be coated with sealant in order to make it waterproof. Start by measuring the height and width of each window opening, then cutting the plywood sheets so that they fit within the frames with an overlap of 4 inches on all sides. It is best to do this on the spot, as it allows you to control the precise dimensions of the plywood. Utilize a circular or track saw to cut the boards to the right size Be aware that you'll need to sand them down after they're installed. Once you've put your boards in place, screw three-inch stainless steel hanger bolts into the framing studs of each window. Use washers on each bolt and wings nuts to secure them. Be sure that each screw penetrates at least 2 inches deep into the studs to ensure the boarding is sturdy enough to withstand strong winds. If you are building with concrete blocks, you can attach the plywood with pan head screws that are galvanized and driven into the overlapping edges of the panels to masonry or cinder block. You'll also have to make pilot holes in the masonry, and then screw corrosion-resistant screws into the holes. This project can take anywhere from three to four hours for each window, so it's crucial to begin the process as soon as you hear that a hurricane watch has been issued. This will allow you ample time to finish the project before the storm strikes. Maintenance You should be prepared to put up a security barrier on your doors and windows prior to a severe storm. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/poole-emergency-boarding-up-near-me/ will help you avoid costly repairs and safeguard your home from further damage that could be caused by rain, wind flying objects, and other causes. The right materials will make the boarding-up process easier and faster to complete. It is crucial to precisely measure the windows. This will ensure the OSB or plywood fits well and won't come off easily. If you're using plywood make sure you use exterior grade sheets and consider adding an extra layer of protection. Once you have the plywood or OSB measured, mark the spots where the screws will go into the board. Make use of a drill to drill holes at 12-inch intervals into the plywood. This will allow you to safely fix the boards using hanger bolts in an emergency or disaster. When the storm has passed and the local authorities have given the all-clear, take out the bolts but keep them in case of emergency. The next step is to place the plywood panels on top of the windows. Be prepared to work in pairs. If you're using plywood make sure to sand down the edges so they are smooth and won't scratch your paint or trim. Then, attach the frame to the plywood using screws that are corrosion-resistant that fit into the pilot holes. If your home has vinyl shingles on it, then attach the plywood directly to the shingles, and not to the wood framing. A boarded-up window can also be used to stop burglars. Burglars are more likely to target a property that has a broken window or one that is not secured. They're also more likely attack the store that has been fenced off than one that isn't. If you're a retail business owner, this is a matter you need to consider seriously.