Why Boarding Up a Window Is a Good Idea
If you live in an area that is prone to severe storms, you should board up your windows and doorways to prevent damage from high winds and debris. This could also save you money on expensive window replacement and repair costs.
Begin by taking measurements of the width and height of each window frame, making sure you include the framing (not just the sheathing or trim). Note the locations of studs for the proper board attachment.
Safety
The protection of windows by boarding them up helps protect the property from vandalism and natural disasters such as earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes and wildfires. It also helps reduce the necessity for window repair or replacement following such events. However, boarding up a building requires the purchase and assembly of a large number of plywood boards. It can be difficult to complete this task quickly, especially if you're faced with a crisis or civil tensions. A poorly designed board-up at the last minute can leave your business or home vulnerable and cause additional damage.
In the event of a break-in, it is more likely to occur when burglars target homes that have broken or smashed glass. Window boarding provides protection against criminals and protects valuable belongings in the home from being stolen. Boarding is also helpful in home renovations where construction materials and tools pose a threat to windows.
To prepare plywood sheets for boarding up, start by accurately measuring the height and width of each window opening. Add at minimum one inch to each dimension. This will protect against wind damage. Once the dimensions have been determined then cut the plywood sheet with a saw. Wear safety goggles and gloves when cutting the plywood to prevent injuries. The next step is to identify and mark the locations of studs for proper board attachment. If possible then look for nailheads within the siding that indicate the stud's position. If you don't see these you can use a drill to probe your wall for studs. Once the studs are found, you can screw them through the plywood and into the framing, putting the screws at least 2 inches into the wood to ensure a secure anchor and avoid splitting.
The process for masonry homes is slightly different. Instead of fixing the plywood directly to masonry, insert the panel into the window frame and secure it with 4-inch barrel bolts spacing no more than 16 inches apart. The bolt's sliding shaft should be able to fit into a hole drilled through the masonry. Use corrosion-resistant screws to keep the metal from corroding while drilling into masonry.
Damage Prevention
Boarding up a broken window not only provides a measure of security, but also helps to prevent further property damage. This is particularly crucial for business owners who have to keep their doors open in the event of a natural disaster or storm since broken glass leaves the interior vulnerable to leaks, environmental debris and theft. A professional board-up service can safeguard your storefront and other commercial properties quickly and cost-effectively from further damage.
Broken windows can also be an issue in a residential setting. Unattended windows could allow burglars to gain entry and steal valuable items, or cause further damage to the structure which could lead to further loss of property and raise your insurance premiums. A professional board-up service will secure your home from unauthorised entry, and also keep your belongings secure while you are away.
Once the emergency service of board-up is completed it is crucial to note that you may also employ a professional to repair and replace damaged windows quickly and cost-effectively. You can reduce the risk of liability by doing this, and get back to your normal routine sooner.
If you are planning to complete the task yourself, a qualified repair or handyman can provide you with the tools and materials you need to complete the task. Selecting the right kind of plywood will shield your windows from further damage. It is also an excellent idea to drill holes in the plywood panels to allow screws in calm weather. This will make the process quicker when a storm warning is issued.
boarding up and burglary repairs www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk is tempting to use duct-tape for securing the plywood. However, it's better to purchase stainless-steel bolts that will prevent your windows from being blown out during storms with high winds. A handyman can help you install these in a calm weather time, so that they will be ready to go when a storm hits. This will save you money and time in the long run.
Temporary Security
Boarding up windows will also keep intruders away. This is especially important after an event of natural disaster or an accident that is serious, such as an explosion or a car crash. Boarding up your home or business immediately prevents further harm and protects you from responsibility until repairs are done.
For instance in the event of an unrest or riot, criminals may make use of the chaos to break into businesses and homes and take valuables. Placing your property in a secure place using plywood is an easy and effective way to deter burglars and other intruders who aren't welcome until the situation calms down.
Aside from preventing damage, window boarding up also provides peace of mind and privacy for business and homeowners. Boarding up your business or home protects you from prying eye and makes it less appealing for burglars. For business owners, boarding up your premises is a crucial security measure that protects your customers and assets until the commercial glass repair service arrives.
EJH will board up your property until permanent repairs are completed regardless of whether it's due to vandalism or a collision. We provide emergency board-up services for commercial and residential properties. We also repair roof, exterior walls, and storefronts that have been damaged. Call us to get more information or schedule an appointment.
Whether you're in hurricane territory or on the edge of a tornado it is essential to have a plan for severe weather emergencies. Emergency boarding up not only protects your home from further damage, but it also provides a temporary solution until you can get the windows replaced. If you're unsure of how to board up your home on your own, think about hiring a Tasker to complete the task for you. Taskers have the knowledge and tools to secure your home's entry points until permanent repairs are completed. Using Airtasker is simple and quick -- simply post your task, go through Taskers' profiles and offers, and then choose the most suitable one for you.
Save Money
The cost of boarding up windows is significantly lower than the cost associated repair or replacement of damaged glass. In addition, it can aid in preventing water intrusion as well as other expensive damage to the structure of your business or home. This can lower the cost of insurance claims, and also reduce interruptions to your daily operations.
It is crucial to cover your windows as early as you can before the weather is forecast to be stormy. You will have the plywood you need to cover your windows when the storm arrives. If you wait too long, the plywood may be sold out at your local hardware store and you will need to pay more for it.
Plywood is cheap and readily available, which is why it is a great option to secure your windows. To ensure maximum security you must choose the highest quality plywood available. It is recommended to make use of OSB or 5/8-inch exterior grade plywood to protect your windows against the force of wind.
Before installing the plywood you might need to drill pilot holes in the frame. Make sure that the pilot holes are equally spaced around the frame. This will prevent the wood from splintering when you insert the screw. Additionally, it is an excellent idea to add washers made of metal to each screw to stop the wood from splitting and weakening.
It is possible to put up your windows on your own, however it requires a lot of knowledge and experience. It is also a job that is best done when the weather is calm so that you can finish the job quickly and safely.
Think about hiring a professional to put up the windows near you If you're looking to speed up the process. These companies can install the plywood and provide appropriate tools for the job. They will be able to correctly install the plywood and can give you other ideas to protect your home from the damaging effects of severe storms.