Boarding Up Windows and Doors Before a Storm Hits Insuring your windows and doorways before an event can give you the protection you need against damage. To do this, you must have a few things in hand. Measure the width and height of the window including the frame (not the trim or the masonry around the window). Write these measurements down to ensure you don't forget them. Preparation It is recommended to put up a board on your windows and doors prior to the occurrence of a natural or stormy weather. This will prevent property damage and reduce the loss of life. The process of boarding up windows requires an extensive amount of preparation, like buying and measuring plywood boards as well as identifying the exact size of each window that needs to be covered. It takes time to cut and install the boards correctly. Fortunately it is possible to make the process made simpler by preparing as soon as you hear of a storm that could be coming in your area. By doing so you will 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. If you start earlier in the process, you will have more time to collect the materials and keep them in storage without being overwhelmed by the approaching storm. It is possible that you will require a large amount of plywood to cover your windows dependent on the severity and intensity of the storm. Use a tape to measure the width and height of each window opening. Make sure you consider the framing or trim around each window, as well as any sills that are extended when applicable. Then, calculate the dimensions of the sheets of plywood you require by dividing the total window width and height by two. For example, if width of your window is 16 inches, the thickness of each sheet should be 8 inches. If your exterior is made of wood drill pilot holes into the plywood sheet to align with the window frame below. This will reduce the chance of splitting when you insert the screws. For a window opening that is bigger than what a sheet of plywood can accommodate cut two sheets that are each half the size of the intended window and place them side-by-side on the wall. Then cut a piece of 2 by 4 in (5.1 by 10.2 cm) lumber to the length of the connecting edges of the sheets of plywood and lay it on top of the seam. 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, only use materials that are durable and will not break or splinter in strong winds. The most common material used to encase windows is plywood, which is inexpensive accessible and simple to work with. It is essential to choose plywood that is specifically exterior grade (CDX) for extra strength, and free from knots and warping. A sturdier option is hurricane or storm shutters, which are put up over windows that are already in place to provide more protection from glass breaking and inclement weather. Once you've identified the location of the window openings you can determine the height and width to determine the amount of plywood you'll require. Use a power drill to drill pilot holes into the plywood sheets around each window at two-inch intervals. Mark the walls with studs prior to attaching the plywood to ensure that the boards are secured. If your home is constructed with wood siding, look for nailheads that might indicate the locations of studs. You can also use your drill to locate the stud locations. The screws should be driven into the framing, not the trim or sheathing. A plywood panel attached to these materials may become a safety hazard in severe winds. If the size of your window is too big for a single sheet plywood, cut two pieces that are each the size you need and join them with 2 by 4 inches of lumber. Label each plywood piece so that 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 that will be used to join the plywood panels to the wall. Aim to drive the screws into the studs so that they are about half the depth of the thickness of the plywood but be careful not to go too deep and harm the underlying structure of your house. It is also worth considering installing polycarbonate security glass such as DefenseLite on your primary windows. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/christchurch-emergency-boarding-up-near-me/ are bonded to existing glazing to safeguard your doors and windows. They are virtually unbreakable, deterring criminals from breaking in. Installation If you live in or are planning to move to a place susceptible to hurricanes and you are worried about the storm, it's best to board up your doors and windows. It's a project that can be done quickly and efficiently however only if you take the time to measure and cut, then label your plywood panels prior to when the storm comes. You'll require additional tools such as drills, saws (or nail-driven hammer for those who don't have a power tool), an erecting level, gloves and safety glasses. It's an excellent idea for the plywood to be coated with sealant to make it waterproof. Start by measuring each window opening's width and height. Then cut the plywood sheets to fit into the frames. It's best to do this on the spot, as it gives you more control over the exact dimensions of the plywood. Cut the boards to the desired size with a track or circular saw. Once they're installed, you will need to sand down all of them. Once you've got your boards place, screw 3-inch stainless steel hanger bolts into the framing studs of each window. Use washers to secure each bolt and wing nuts. Make sure that each screw penetrates the studs at least two inches to ensure that the board is strong enough to withstand high winds. If you're building using concrete block, you can attach the plywood to the building using galvanized pan-head screws driven through the edges that are overlapping of each panel to form cinder blocks or masonry blocks. You'll also need to drill pilot holes into the masonry, and then screw corrosion-resistant screws into the holes. It's a job that could take as long as three hours per window, which is why it's important to start the process immediately after you hear that a hurricane watch has been issued. This will give you ample time to finish the project before the storm strikes. Maintenance If you're a homeowner or business owner, it is essential to have the required materials to secure windows and doors in advance of a severe storm. This will help you avoid costly repairs and safeguard your home from further damage that could be caused by rain, wind debris, flying objects and other factors. Having the right materials will make the boarding-up process easier and faster to complete. It is crucial to measure each window precisely. This will ensure that the plywood or OSB fits snugly and won't fall off easily. If you're using plywood, be sure you use sheets of exterior grade and think about adding a second protective finish. After you have the plywood or OSB measured, mark the spots where the screws will go into the board. Then, use a drill to drill holes into the plywood at 12-inch intervals. This will allow you to securely fasten the boards with hanger bolts during an emergency or in the event of a disaster. Once the storm has passed and you've received all-clear from authorities in your area, remove the hanger bolts, but keep them in place for any future emergencies. Then, you can install the plywood panels above the windows. This is a two-person job So be prepared prior to starting. If you're using plywood, make sure you sand the edges to ensure they're smooth and won't scratch paint or trim. Then make use of corrosion-resistant screws connect the plywood using the pilot holes. If your home is covered with shingles made of vinyl, it's best to attach the plywood to the shingles instead of the wood framing underneath. In addition to keeping out rain and other weather elements, a boarded up window is also a great method to deter burglaries. Burglars are more likely to target a property with a window that is broken or one that's not locked. They're also more likely to break into a store that's been closed than one that isn't. If you're a retail business owner, this is something you need to consider seriously.