Boarding Up Windows and Doors Before a Storm Hits
Before a storm hits, boarding up your windows and doors will protect you from damage. To accomplish this, you will should have a few items on the go.
First, take measurements of the window's height and width, including the framing (not the trim around it or masonry). Note these measurements so you won't forget.
Preparation
It is best to cover your windows and doors prior to an event like a hurricane or natural disaster. This will minimize the risk of property damage and also reduce the chance of dying. The process of boarding up windows requires an extensive amount of preparation, including buying and measuring plywood boards, and identifying the exact size of each window to cover. It also takes time to cut the boards and put them up them correctly. Fortunately, the process can be simplified by starting the preparations when you first hear of a storm that could be coming in your area. By doing so, you can avoid a stressful last-minute rush and make the process much easier for yourself and your staff.
Begin by listening to weather forecasters and observing the guidelines of your local government. If you start earlier in the process, you'll have more time to collect the materials and store them without being overwhelmed by a storm that is about to hit. Depending on the severity of the pending storm, you might require massive quantities of plywood to cover all of your windows. To ensure that you have the right size, you can use a tape measure to determine the width and height of each window opening. Be sure to include the framing or trim around each window, and any ledges that are extended, if appropriate.
Divide the total width and the height of your window by 2 to determine the size of plywood sheets that you'll need. If your window measures a width of 16 inches, the thickness of each sheet is 8 inches. If your exterior is made of wood, drill pilots 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 greater than the size of a single sheet of plywood can handle, cut two separate sheets that are each half the size of the intended window and lay them side-by-side on the wall. Then cut a piece of 2 by 4 inches (5.1 by 10.2 cm) lumber to the length of the connecting edge of the plywood sheets and place it on top of the seam. Then, screw 2.25 in (5.7cm) screws into the plywood sheet and into the bracing to join the two together.
Materials
To ensure safety and security for security and safety, boarding up windows and doors should be done using only solid materials that will not break under pressure or splinter during high winds. The most popular material used to board up windows is plywood, which is affordable easily available and simple to work with. Pick plywood that is exterior grade (CDX) because it will be stronger and contain fewer warps and knots. Storm shutters or hurricane shutters are a more durable option. They can be installed over windows that are already in place and offer greater protection against broken glasses and storms.
Once you have identified the location of the window openings you can determine the height and width to determine the amount of plywood you will require. Use a power drill to drill pilot holes in the sheets of plywood around each window at two-inch intervals. Before attaching the plywood, identify and mark the stud locations on the wall to ensure the boards are anchored securely. If you have wood siding on your home, look for nailheads to determine stud location. You can also use your drill to determine the stud locations. Make sure you drive the screws into the framing and not the sheathing or trim; A plywood panel that is fastened to these materials may become a hazard in strong winds.
If the size of your window is too large for a single piece of plywood, cut two pieces which are each half the size you require. join them together with 2 by 4 inch lumber. Label each piece of plywood to let you know which window it will cover.
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. Try to drive the screws into the studs such that they are about half as deep as the plywood is thick, however, be cautious not to go too deep and damage the underlying structure of your house.
You should also consider installing polycarbonate security glass like DefenseLite on your primary windows. These transparent shields bond over the existing glass to guard your doors and windows. They are virtually unbreakable, deterring criminals from breaking in.
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If you live in a region susceptible to hurricanes, or plan to move to one, the best course of action is to put up a board on your doors and windows prior to the threat of a storm approaches. It's a project that can be completed quickly and effectively, but only if you make the effort to measure and cut your plywood before the storm hits.
You'll also require a few other tools, including a drill (or a hammer and nails for those who don't own an electric drill), tape, a saw a level, gloves and a pair of safety glasses. It is a good idea to coat the plywood with sealant, as well, to make it waterproof.
Begin by taking measurements of the width and height of each window opening, and then cutting your plywood sheets so they can fit inside the frames with a 4-inch overlap on all sides. This is best done on the spot as you are more in control of the exact dimensions.
Cut the boards to the size you want using a circular or track saw. Once they're installed you'll need to sand them down completely. them. Once you've got 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. Make sure that each screw penetrates the studs at a minimum of two inches to ensure the board is strong enough to resist high winds.
If you're building using concrete block, you could attach the plywood to the building with galvanized pan-head screws pushed through the overlapping edges of each panel into masonry blocks or cinder blocks. It is also necessary to make pilot holes in the masonry, and then screw corrosion-resistant screws through the holes. This project can take anywhere from three to four hours per window, which is why it's essential to begin the process immediately after you hear that a hurricane warning has been issued. This will give you enough time to complete your project before the storm hits.
Maintenance
You should be prepared to board up your doors and windows prior to an extreme storm. This can save you money on repairs and also protect your property from further damage from rain, wind debris, flying debris and other elements that could impact windows.
The right materials can make the boarding up process easier and faster to complete. The most important thing is to accurately determine the dimensions of the windows you'll must cover. This will ensure the OSB or plywood fits well, and that it won't come off easily. If you're using plywood be sure to use exterior-grade sheets, and consider adding an extra layer of protection.
After you have the plywood or OSB measured, mark the spots where screws will go into the board. Utilize a drill to predrill holes at 12-inch intervals into the plywood. Then, you can use hanger bolts to anchor the boards in a disaster situation. Once the storm has passed and you've received the all-clear by local authorities, take off the hanger bolts, but leave them in place for any future emergencies.
Then, you can install the plywood panels over the windows. Be prepared to work in pairs. If you're using plywood, sand the edges to make them smooth so they won't scratch paint or trim. Then make use of corrosion-resistant screws connect the plywood using the pilot holes. If your home has vinyl shingles on it, nail the plywood directly to the shingles, and not the wood framing.
A window that has been boarded up may be used to stop burglars. Burglars are more likely target a building with a broken or unlocked window. Additionally, they are more likely to break into the store with a boarded up window than one that has no. If you're a retail business owner, this is something you need to consider seriously.