Five Killer Quora Answers On Boarding Up Windows
The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
Boarding up windows is a way to protect your property from storm damage. It's a daunting task that requires the help of a third party.
Before you start the process take a precise measurement of your windows to ensure that the plywood fits perfectly. Make sure you have a circular saw and power drill to cut the boards.
Seals Windows
Boarding windows is a tried and true method to protect your home in the event of an emergency. It's a simple procedure that requires only some basic tools and some time but it can be extremely effective.
The purpose of boarding up windows is one primary goal: to prevent the glass from breaking because of debris during a storm or other severe weather. The boarding is typically constructed of plywood and connected to the frame with a nail or screw. There are other materials that could be used to board up windows, such as duct tape and zip ties, however plywood is affordable and easy to work with, making it an obvious choice.
Measure the height and width of each window prior to when you begin the boarding process. This will allow you to cut a sheet 5/8-inch thick of exterior-grade plywood (OSB) or oriented-strand board. Make sure the dimensions of the plywood meet the size of the window frame, and leave a 1 A gap of 4 inches between the edges of the plywood and the window frame to allow for expansion.
After the plywood has been cut to size, you can screw it into place using hanger bolts and nuts. These bolts can be found in the majority of hardware stores as well as home improvement stores. They are designed to be attached directly to the studs that are on a house. The holes in the plywood must be made to match the diameter of the hanger bolts, and should be spaced at minimum 2 inches on all sides. After the storm is over and the plywood is removed and the hanger bolts are removed, they can be removed and unscrewed from the studs of the house.
It is essential to begin the process of boarding up as soon as you can, after a hurricane warning has been issued. This will enable you to ensure that you have enough plywood to protect your house and allow you to spot any issues prior to the storm. The entire process should only take a couple of minutes to complete per window.
Stops break-ins
Boarding up windows can be a great deterrent for burglars. Burglars usually target homes they know they can break into and, if they notice a property has been boarded up, they'll think twice about trying to enter the property. Boarded up windows also prevent burglars from being able look inside the property as well, which is a major security benefit.
Boarding up windows is also an excellent way to protect your property from the elements. If you live in an area which is susceptible to extreme weather, boarding windows can help to protect your home from damage. By covering windows with plywood, you can prevent snow, rain and other debris from getting in. This will help you save money on costly repairs and replacements.
It is essential to select the right materials when deciding which window to board. Exterior-grade plywood is generally the best option, as it will hold up against the elements. You will need a drill for drilling holes into the plywood, as well as screws caulk or putty for sealing the holes. Before you begin, be sure to measure the openings in your windows and mark the locations where screws will be. You should also note the plywood panel that is attached to each window or door. Once you've got all your supplies, it's the time to put up the windows.
While boarding your windows can help to stop burglaries, it is not foolproof. It is still possible for burglars to get around the boarding, and it is not always easy to put in place. If you are relying solely on boarding your windows, you could overlook other security measures which could safeguard your property.
One of the most effective methods to deter burglaries is installing security fencing. This is a great choice for vacant properties, and it can be a great complement to boarding up windows. But, this option is not the best choice for commercial or residential buildings which want to maintain an appearance.
Reduces Heat Loss
In addition to keeping your home safe from break-ins, boarding up windows can reduce the amount of heat that escapes through your windows. Inefficient window glass is responsible for two-thirds of the heat loss in a building or home. This happens through a combination of convection, radiation, and conduction. commercial boarding up service occurs when warm air comes into contact with cold glass, which causes the glass to radiate heat away from your body and home. Convection occurs when hot air rises and colder air enters to replace it. And conduction is when heat passes through a window's frame which is typically constructed of metal.
Whether it's severe weather or vandalism, a window breaking is a problem that homeowners and businesses must deal with. Boarding up a window conceals any rough or jagged edges and allows you to keep your business open until the window is repaired. This is especially crucial for commercial spaces, which can be vulnerable to robbery attempts by thieves looking to avoid being seen through the window.
There are several alternatives to plywood boards to protect against storm damage however, they do not offer the same level of security as a sturdy piece of wood covering a window. Roll-down hurricane shutters are used to protect homes from storms. However, they can cause danger if they are not secure enough and can take a long time to set up and remove. Another alternative is to use strips of self-stick weather sealing that you cut to fit the window's dimensions. Seals can be pressed into the window to close gaps and allow cold air to pass through and warm air to exit.
If you're seeking a long-term solution, consider installing energy efficient windows that have low-e coatings that allow the sun's radiant heat to pass through while preventing the transfer of other kinds of heat. Consider a draft stopper. This is an easy tube of fabric that sits on the bottom of your windows and stops cold, escaping air from entering. These options are more expensive than a complete window replacement but will reduce your energy costs over the long haul.
Saves Money
While it might be costly to board up windows in the event of an emergency, you will actually save money over the long term. By sealing windows and doors you can cut down on drafts which cause heat to escape the home or office. You will also see an improvement in your winter energy costs.
Boards are readily accessible and affordable, making them an excellent option for temporary protection against a storm. However, before you make use of them to protect your property, you must be sure to measure each window. Take measurements horizontally within the trim and vertically between the bottom of the top trim and the sill. Add eight inches to the height and width of both to ensure a snug fitting and allow for expansion in a storm. A saw is needed to cut the OSB or plywood, and a drill is needed for mounting. Install the boards prior to the storm, and then remove them once the weather is safe.
A reputable boarding-up service can complete the job faster and more efficiently than a person trying it on their own. These professionals employ hurricane clips instead of nails to join the boards to your property, preventing any damage to the frames. They can also remove the boards when the storm has passed and return your property back to its original condition.
A damaged window can be a major issue for commercial property owners. It's not just a problem for the appearance of your building, but it can also cause theft and other security concerns. By boarding up windows that are broken, you will prevent criminals and potential criminals from entering your property until the window is able to be replaced.
You should also secure any vacant property you own. Properties that are vacant are more likely to be targeted by squatters and are easy targets for arsonists, therefore this is a crucial step to keep your property secure until it can be used again.