The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows Boarding up windows is a method to shield your home from damage caused by storms. It is a difficult task that requires the help of a third party. 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 Boarding windows is a tried and true method of protecting your property in the event of an incoming storm. It's a relatively simple process that requires just a few tools and a little time to complete however, it can be extremely efficient. The idea of boarding windows serves one primary goal: to prevent the glass from breaking due to debris during the storm or other severe weather. The boarding is usually made of plywood and is connected to the frame using either 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 easy to work with and is an ideal choice. To begin the boarding process, measure the height and width of each window. This information will help you cut a 5/8-inch thickness of exterior-grade plywood (OSB) or oriented-strand board. Make sure the dimensions of the plywood match the size of the window frame, and leave 1 inch of space There should be a 4 inch gap between the edge of the plywood and window frame to allow expansion. After the plywood is cut to size, screw it into the desired position using hanger bolts and nuts. These bolts are found in most hardware stores and home improvement stores. They are designed to connect directly to the studs that are on the exterior of a home. The holes in the plywood must be made to match the diameter of the hanger bolts, and should be spaced at 2 inches from all sides. After the storm is over and the plywood has been removed the bolts are unscrewed from the studs. It is crucial to begin the process of boarding your home as soon as you can, when a hurricane watch has been issued. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to safeguard your home and give you the chance to spot any issues before the storm hits. The entire process should take a couple of minutes per time. Preventing Break-Ins One of the main reasons that property owners choose to boarded up windows is that it acts as a deterrent for burglars. Burglars are known to target homes they know they can break into and, if they notice that a house has been closed off, they will be hesitant to break into it. The windows that are boarded up also stop burglars from having access to the house. This is a crucial security advantage. Boarding up windows is also an effective way to shield your property from weather. If you live in a region that is susceptible to extreme weather, you should board up windows to shield your home. By covering windows with plywood snow, rain, snow and other debris are unable to be able to enter, which could save you lots of money on expensive repairs and replacements. It is crucial to choose the right materials when deciding what to use for the boarding of your windows. The best choice is exterior grade plywood, which can be able to withstand the elements. You will need drills for drilling holes in the plywood as well as screws, caulk or putty for sealing the holes. Before you begin, be sure to measure your window openings and mark where the screws will be. You should also note the plywood panel that is attached to each door or window. Once you have the necessary materials, it is time to begin boarding your windows. While boarding windows can deter burglaries, this method isn't foolproof. Even though the boarding is difficult to install, it is possible that burglars will find ways around it. Furthermore, if your only rely on boarding your windows, you might overlook other security measures that could further protect your property. Installing https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/derby-emergency-boarding-up-near-me/ is one of the best methods to deter burglaries. This is a great option for vacant homes and can be an ideal complement to blocking your windows. This solution is not suitable for residential or commercial buildings which want to preserve the curb appeal. Reduces Heat Loss In addition to keeping your home safe from burglaries, boarding your windows can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through your windows. About two-thirds of the heat loss from a house or building is due inefficient windows. This is caused by the combination of radiation, convection and conduction. Radiation occurs when warm windows glass contacts cold air, which causes it to radiate heat away. Convection occurs when hot air rises, and colder air replaces it. Conduction is the way that heat is absorbed by the window frame, which is typically constructed of steel. Broken windows can pose a problem for homeowners and businesses alike, whether it is because of severe weather or vandalism. By boarding up a window, you can hide any rough or jagged edges and lets you keep your business open until the window is repaired. This is especially crucial for commercial spaces that can be vulnerable to theft by thieves who don't want to be seen through the windows. There are several alternatives to plywood boards for protection against storm damage, but they don't provide the same degree of security as a sturdy piece of wood that is encased in a window. Roll-down hurricane shutters can be used to shield homes during storms. However, they could be a danger to your safety in the event that they are not securely secured and require time to put in and take away. There are also self-stick rubber weather seals you can cut to fit the exact dimensions of your windows. Seals can be put in place to close gaps allowing cold air to pass through and warm air to escape. If you are seeking a long-term solution, consider installing energy-efficient windows with low-e coatings that permit the sun's radiant heat to flow through while preventing the transfer of other forms of heat. Consider draft stoppers. This is an easy tube of fabric that is placed on the bottom of your windows and stops cold, escaping air from entering. These options can be more expensive than a full window replacement, but they can aid in reducing your energy bills in the long run. Savings on Money While boarding up windows might appear to be a costly service to provide in a crisis however, it actually saves money over the long-term. By sealing windows and doors you can cut down on drafts that allow heat to escape from your home or business. As a result you will pay lower energy bills in the winter. Boards are readily accessible and affordable they are a great choice for temporary protection against a storm. Before you can use them as protection for your property, you will need to take measurements for each window. Make sure you 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 in an event like a hurricane. You will also require a saw to cut the plywood OSB and a drill for mounting. Install the boards before the storm, and then remove them when the weather is stable. A professional boarding up company can complete the task faster and more efficiently than someone trying to do it themselves. Professionals will use hurricane clips instead of nails to adhere the boards to the property, preventing damage to the frames. After the storm, they can remove all the boards and restore your property to its original condition. A damaged window can be a major issue for commercial property owners. It can not only ruin the appearance of your property but it can also cause thefts and other security concerns. By boarding up the windows that have broken, you will keep thieves and opportunists away from your property until you can replace it. It is also a good idea to secure vacant properties you own. Properties that are vacant are more likely to be targeted by squatters as well as are ideal targets for arsonists so this is an important step to ensure that your property is secure until it is used again.