The Benefits of Boarding Up Windows
The idea of boarding up windows is a method to shield your home from damage caused by storms. boarding up windows repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk is a difficult task that requires the help of a third party.
Measure your windows to ensure the plywood will fit snugly. Also, make sure that you have a circular saw as well as a 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. It's a simple procedure that requires only a few basic tools and some time however, it can be very effective.
The primary reason for boarding windows is to create an enveloping physical layer over the glass that prevents it from being damaged by debris in the event of a hurricane or another severe weather event. The boarding is typically made of plywood and is fixed to the frame of the window using either a screw or nail. There are other materials that can be used to cover windows such as duct tape and zip ties, but plywood is inexpensive and simple to work with, making it an obvious option.
Find the height and width for each window before you begin the boarding procedure. Make use of this information to cut a sheet of 5/8-inch thick exterior-grade plywood or oriented Strand Board (OSB). The dimensions of the plywood should match the dimensions of your window frame. Leave an inch gap. There is a gap of 4 inches between the edges of the plywood and the window frame to allow expansion.
After the plywood is cut to size, screw into the hanger bolts with nuts. These bolts are made to attach to the studs of a home and are available at a wide range of hardware stores and home improvement centers. The holes for the plywood must be drilled at an appropriate diameter to match the hanger bolts, and spaced apart by at least 2 inches on all sides. When the storm is over and the plywood is removed the hanger bolts may be unscrewed and removed from the studs of the house.
It is crucial to begin the process of boarding up as soon as you can, once a hurricane watch is issued. This will help you ensure that you have enough plywood to protect your house and give you the opportunity to spot any issues prior to the storm hits. The entire process should take a couple of minutes to complete per window.
Prevents break-ins
One of the main reasons that property owners choose to boarded up windows is that it serves as a deterrent for burglars. Burglars will target properties that they know they can easily enter. If they see a property that is boarded up, they might think twice before attempting to gain entry. Windows that are screened off also stop burglars from being able look inside the property and gain another security benefit.
A good way to protect your property is to secure it by boarding up windows. If you live in a place where there is a high risk of extreme weather, you should board up windows to shield your property. By covering the windows with plywood, rain, snow and other debris cannot get in, which can save you a significant amount of money on costly repairs and replacements.
It is essential to select the appropriate materials when you are deciding what to use for the boarding of your windows. Exterior-grade plywood is generally the best choice, since it can withstand the elements. You will also require drilling tools to create holes in the plywood along with screws and putty or caulk to close the holes. Make sure you determine the openings of your windows before you begin, and then mark where screws will be positioned. Also, note down which plywood panel is for each window or door. Once you've got all your items, it's time to affix your windows.
While boarding windows can help prevent burglaries, this technique is not foolproof. It is still possible for burglars to circumvent the boarding, and it is not always simple to install. Additionally, if you rely solely on boarding up your windows, you may overlook other security measures that can enhance your security.
One of the most effective ways to stop burglaries is installing security fencing. This is a great option for vacant properties and is a great complement to boarding up your windows. This solution is not suitable for residential or commercial buildings which want to preserve the curb appeal.
Reduces Heat Loss
By boarding your windows, you will not just protect your home from burglars, but it will also help reduce the amount of heat that escapes from your windows. Around two-thirds of heat loss from a house or building is due to the inefficiency of windows. This happens through a combination of radiation, convection and conduction. Radiation occurs when warm window glass comes into contact with cold air which causes it to radiate heat away. Convection is the process where hot air rises and colder air moves in to replace it. Conduction is the heat that passes through the window frame, which is usually made of metal.
Windows that break can be a major issue for homeowners and businesses regardless of whether it's due to extreme weather or vandalism. The window that is boarded up will hide any jagged or rough edges, and it will allow you to keep your business open while the window is being repaired. This is especially crucial for commercial spaces that are prone to robbery by thieves who don't want to be seen through the windows.
There are other alternatives to plywood for storm damage protection. However, they do not provide the same level security as a solid piece of wood covering your window. Roll-down hurricane shutters are used to protect homes from storms. However, they could cause danger in the event that they are not properly secured and take time to set up and remove. Another alternative is to use strips of self-stick rubber weather seal that you cut to fit the dimensions of your window. The seals can be pressed down to seal gaps that allow cold air while allowing warm air to escape.
Consider installing energy-efficient windows with low-e coated glass that allows the sun's heat to pass through, while blocking other types of heat transfer. Also, consider a draft stopper which is a basic tube of fabric that is placed in the bottom of your window to prevent cold air from getting in. These options can be more expensive than a complete window replacement, but they will help reduce your energy costs in the long term.
Savings on Money
While it might be costly to cover windows in an emergency, you'll actually save money over the long term. By sealing windows and doors, you can reduce drafts which cause heat to escape from the home or business. Also, you will see an improvement in your winter energy bills.
Boards are readily accessible and affordable and are a good option for temporary protection against an incoming storm. However, before you can use them to protect your property, you need to carefully measure each window. Measure horizontally within the trim and vertically between the bottom of the top trim and the sill. Then, add eight inches to the height and width to ensure a snug fit and allow for expansion in the event of a storm. You will also require a saw to cut the plywood or OSB and a drill for mounting. Install the boards before an event and take them off when the weather is stable.
A professional boarding-up company will be able to do the job more efficiently and efficiently than a person trying to do it on their own. They employ hurricane clips instead of nails to secure the boards to your property, thus preventing any damage to the frames. They can also take down the boards after the storm passes and return your property back to its original condition.
If you are a commercial property owner, then a broken window could be a major problem. It's not just ruining the appearance of your property, but can also trigger thefts and other security concerns. By boarding up the windows that have broken, you will keep criminals and opportunists out of your property until you are able to replace it.
It is also recommended to secure vacant properties that you own. This is crucial to ensure your property is secure while it is being used.