Why You Should Board Up Your Windows
If a building is vulnerable to damage due to a natural disaster or a fire, it's crucial that it's boarded up. This will safeguard the building and prevent further damage. It will also save you money on window replacement or repair.
The process of boarding up a home is done by using flat boards to cover windows and doors to protect them from vandalism or natural disaster. Here are some reasons why you should consider boarding your windows:
Guard Your Glass
Window glass is one of the most vulnerable parts of a home or commercial property during high winds or any natural disaster. Placing windows in a boarder provides some protection while waiting for emergency glass repair or replacement services to be delivered.
While boarding up windows is an inexpensive solution, it can require a bit of preparation and install. The majority of homeowners hire professionals to do the job right. Professionals have the proper tools and have the experience to put up boards on doors and windows swiftly, even when the damage is extensive. They know how to use lag screws, which are more secure than nails, to attach plywood to a structure. They also know how to cut and mark the boards to fit and use hurricane clips instead of nails or hammers which can cause costly damage to the frames and doors of windows and doors.
Boarded windows offer protection from severe weather, such as the tornado or hurricane. They protect against flying debris, windborne objects, and heavy rains. They reduce the chance of mold and other damage to the property through preventing water intrusion. They also keep vandals away which is crucial for commercial properties like offices and stores.
If you're in an area susceptible to storms, it's a good idea to cover your windows with a sheet of plywood immediately after an official hurricane warning is issued. This will save you money over the course of. It's also a great way to protect your belongings from theft.
Damage Prevention for Water Damage Prevention
After a storm, board up your windows to prevent rain and debris from entering. This prevents windows from leaking and could help prevent water damage to the interior of the building. This is a great solution for commercial buildings, such as offices and retail stores, since it will help reduce damage and the cost of repairs.
It also assists in preventing theft. A missing window could be a prime entry point for burglars and could cause costly burglaries. Boarding services can help to prevent this from happening by securing the property while you wait for replacement windows.
They will take care of every little detail when you hire an expert to encase your windows. They will supply sturdy materials, measure each window carefully and then cut the sheets of plywood to size. They will also supply screws or nails to secure the boards in place. This will ensure that the boards are installed and will stay in position during a hurricane or any other emergency.
This is a great method to prepare your home for severe weather conditions like hurricanes or tornadoes. It could also be beneficial if you live in an area with a high risk of flooding or an area with frequent storms. Boarding can also help protect homes that are vacant or a neglected or foreclosed property, from vandalism and theft.
Although it is possible to put a window in by yourself but the process can be long and requires specialized tools. This also requires drilling holes in the wall, which can be difficult for those unfamiliar with this kind of work. You'll also need to find a place to store the boards when they are not in use.
Increases boarding up doors
Boarding windows provide an extra layer of security for your home. In addition to protecting against the possibility of breaking due to severe weather, this method conceals sharp edges that could harm employees or customers. It also lets you continue operations until the window is repaired. This is especially important for businesses that are located in areas that are vulnerable to severe weather, like tornado alley, hurricane zones and other areas.
Boarded windows can also be used to improve the security of vacant buildings such as those in renovation or foreclosed. Properties that are vacant are a prime target for vandals and burglars, who often take advantage of open windows to gain entry. By boarding up windows, you can prevent criminals from entering and also safeguard valuables.
If you are seeking a solution for your board make sure you choose a wood that is strong. This kind of wood is inexpensive and readily available at any hardware store. It's also unattractive to squatters or criminals. Then, attach the plywood to the frame of your window at 12-inch intervals. Then, caulk the screw holes.
Boarding up windows is an effective temporary solution to weather-related damage. It shields windows from wind-driven debris and stops the glass from shattering which could cause flooding inside and other problems. It's an excellent option for homes that are currently in the process of or being rented out or sold. This will safeguard your investment and keep your home or apartment secure until you can sell it. If your property is undergoing renovations, boarding windows are a great way to protect them from dust or other construction materials that could harm the glass. This is particularly important for older buildings and those with glass that is fragile.
Reduces Energy Costs
Although it might seem counterintuitive initially it is a good idea to board your windows. It will save you money in the end. This is because boards are insulated, and they will keep cold air from blowing in during the winter months and hot air from entering during summer. The windows that are boarded up also stop moisture from forming which can lead to mildew and other issues.
The act of boarding up your windows can help protect your home from vandalism and storm damage. A broken window can be a welcome for squatters and other unwanted intruders and boards provide the necessary protection until a repair team or window installer can arrive to complete the repairs.
If you live in a location prone to severe weather conditions such as storms or heavy rains, board your windows to protect your home. A properly installed plywood board will reduce the chance of window breaks as well as interior damage caused by water, and structural damage due to wind-borne debris.
While you can secure your windows yourself, it is best to get an expert. Professionals have the tools, materials and experience needed to complete the task quickly and efficiently. They know how to set up the boards correctly to ensure that they are strong and durable. Consider using plastic sheeting as an alternative to the windows with a boarding. This will provide the same security against vandals, squatters and thieves but is more appealing to the eye. It will not detract the aesthetics of your home. This is crucial, particularly in the event that you intend to sell your house in the near future.
Preventing Damage During Renovations
By boarding up windows, you can avoid further damage to your home during renovations. Construction debris tools, heavy materials and tools are all potential risks to windows that are cracked and cause costly repairs. Boarding up windows during renovations protects them from such dangers and protects the structure of the house or building in the process.
Window boards can also deter vandals and burglars from damaging your home. These boards make it harder for visitors who aren't welcome to gain access and provide an element of security that many homeowners appreciate. This is especially important in areas that are susceptible to break-ins, or during periods of extended vacancy.
The process of boarding begins by taking exact measurements of your windows. This will ensure that the OSB or plywood fits perfectly. A professional will use circular saws or jigsaws to cut the boards according to the exact window dimensions and leave an inch of gap, typically around 1/4 inch, at every corner of the frame. They will then drill the plywood and into the window frame using a drill equipped with needle point screws. This eliminates the need to hammer nails which could damage the windows and walls.
After the boards are in position and secured, they can be secured using hurricane clips to prevent them from moving during an event. They are a great alternative to nails as they don't leave holes that could later be used by pests. They are also much simpler to remove after the damage is over.
Boarding services can be an investment worth making for homeowners or businesses alike regardless of whether it's to avoid further damage or following a natural catastrophe. The cost of the service is usually low and will quickly pay for itself by protecting the property, and also the repair costs.