15 Bizarre Hobbies That'll Make You Smarter At Boarding Up Windows

The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows Protecting your home from storm damage is feasible with making windows a board. It is a difficult task that requires the assistance of another person. Before you begin the process make sure you measure your windows accurately to ensure that the plywood fits perfectly. Also, make sure that you have a circular saw and power drill to cut the boards. Seals Windows It's a tried and tested method to shield your home from damage caused by a storm. boarding up windows and doors 's an easy process that requires only a few basic tools and some time but it can be extremely effective. The primary reason for boarding up windows is to create a physical barrier over the glass, which stops it from breaking from debris in the event of a hurricane or another severe weather event. The boarding is typically made of plywood and connected to the frame by screw or nail. There are other materials that can be used to secure windows such as duct tape and zip ties, however plywood is cheap and easy to work with which makes it a good choice. To begin the boarding process, measure the height and width of each window. This will allow you to cut a 5/8-inch thick sheet of exterior-grade plywood (OSB) or oriented-strand board. The dimensions of the plywood must be similar to the dimensions of your window frame. Leave one inch of space. There should be a 4 inch gap between the edge of the plywood and the window frame to allow for expansion. After the plywood is cut to size, you can screw it into the frame using hanger bolts as well as nuts. These bolts are available in most hardware stores and home improvement stores. They are designed to attach directly to the studs of the exterior of a home. The holes in the plywood should be drilled to correspond with the diameter of the hanger bolts, and should be spaced at minimum 2 inches on all sides. After the storm has ended and the plywood has been removed and the bolts removed, they can be unscrewed from the studs. Once a hurricane warning is issued, it is crucial to begin boarding up your home as soon possible. This will ensure that you have enough plywood to protect your home and give you the chance to identify any issues before the storm arrives. The entire process should take about 30 minutes for each window, and should be completed by two people. Preventing break-ins One of the primary reasons that property owners choose to boarded up windows is that it serves as a deterrent to burglars. Burglars tend to target properties that they know they can break into, and if they see the property is boarded up, they will be more cautious about trying to enter the property. The windows that are boarded up also stop burglars from being able inspect the inside of the house, which is another important security benefit. A good way to protect property is to secure it by boarding up windows. If you live in a region that is prone to extreme weather, boarding up windows can help to protect your home from damage. By covering windows with plywood snow, rain, and other debris are unable to be able to enter, which could save you lots of money on expensive repairs and replacements. It is important to select the right materials when choosing what to use for the boarding of your windows. The best option is exterior grade plywood, which can be able to withstand the elements. You will require a drill to drill holes into the plywood as well as screws caulk or putty to seal the holes. Make sure to measure the window openings before you begin and mark the locations where screws will be placed. Also, note the type of plywood that goes with each window or door. Once you have all the items, it's time to begin boarding your windows. While boarding windows up can help prevent burglaries, this method isn't foolproof. Although the boarding is difficult to put up, it is possible for burglars find a way around it. Additionally, if you are solely relying on boarding your windows, you could overlook other security measures that could enhance your security. One of the most effective methods to stop burglaries is installing security fencing. This is a great option for vacant properties and can be an alternative to boarding your windows. This method is not suitable for residential or commercial structures that want to keep the curb appeal. Reduces Heat Loss Boarding up your windows will not just protect your home from intruders, but it can also cut down on the amount of heat that escapes from your windows. Inefficient window glass is responsible for around two-thirds of the heat loss from the home or building. Radiation, convection, and conduction are all involved. Radiation occurs when warm air contacts cold glass that causes the glass to emit heat away from your body and your home. Convection occurs when hot air rises and colder air flows in to replace it. Conduction is the way that heat is absorbed by the window frame, which is usually constructed of steel. Whether it's severe weather or vandalism, the breaking of windows is a frequent issue that homeowners and businesses have to deal with. The boarded-up windows will conceal any rough edges or jagged edges, and you can keep your business open while the window is being repaired. This is especially important for commercial spaces that are susceptible to robbery attempts by thieves who wish to keep their eyes off the window. There are some alternatives to plywood for storm damage protection. However they do not offer the same level of security as a solid piece wood that covers your window. For instance, roll-down hurricane shutters are popular for insulating homes during storms, but they could pose a risk to safety if they aren't securely anchored and require time to put up and take down. Another alternative is to make use of strips of self-stick weather sealing that you cut to match the dimensions of your window. Seals can be put in the window to close gaps and allow cold air to pass through and warm air to exit. Consider installing energy-efficient windows with low-e coated glass that allows the sun's heat to pass through while blocking other forms of heat transfer. Also consider a draft stopper that is a simple fabric tube that is placed in the bottom of your window and prevents cold air from entering. These alternatives are more expensive than a complete window replacement, but they will lower your energy costs in the long term. Savings on Money While it might be costly to board up windows in the event of an emergency, you'll actually save money over the long term. By sealing your windows and doors with boards, you reduce drafts that allow heat to escape from the home or commercial property. Also, you will see an improvement in the cost of heating your home during winter. Boards are readily accessible and affordable and are a good option for temporary protection against an incoming storm. Before you can use them as protection for your home, you will need to measure every window. Be sure to take measurements horizontally within the trim and vertically from the bottom of the top trim to the sill. Add eight inches to the width and height of the trim to ensure a secure fitting and allow for expansion in a storm. You will also require a saw to cut the plywood OSB and a drill for mounting. To get the best results, it is recommended to install the boards before the storm is predicted and wait to remove them until the weather conditions are safe. A professional boarding-up business will be able to complete the job more efficiently and effectively than someone who is trying it on their own. They employ hurricane clips instead of nails to secure the boards to your property, preventing any damage to the frames. After the storm, they will dismantle all the boards and restore your property back to its original condition. If you're a commercial property owner and you have a window that is broken, it could be a major problem. It not only affects the appearance of your property but it can also cause theft and other security issues. The act of boarding up windows that are broken will keep thieves and opportunists out of your property until you are able replace it. It is also a good idea to put up a fence around vacant properties that you own. Vacant properties are more likely to be targeted by squatters and are easy targets for arsonists, therefore this is a crucial step to ensure that your property is safe until it can be used again.