Why You Should Board Up Your Windows

When a property is left vulnerable to damage after an natural disaster or fire, it's vital that it is secured. This helps protect the building from further damage, and also preventing the need for window repair or replacement.

The process of boarding up a house involves covering doors and windows with flat boards to guard them from vandalism or natural catastrophes. Here are some reasons why you need to consider hiring a service to board up your windows:

Guard Your Glass

Window glass is one of the most vulnerable points of a commercial or home property during high winds, or any natural disaster. The act of boarding up windows offers a measure of security while you wait for emergency glass repair or replacement services to arrive.

While boarding windows up is an inexpensive solution, it can require a bit of preparation and put in place. Many homeowners hire experts to complete the task correctly. Professionals are equipped with the appropriate tools and have the experience to board up doors and windows quickly even if the damage is substantial. They are able to use lag screws which are more secure than nails for attaching the plywood to the structure. They also know how to cut and mark the boards to make them fit and use hurricane clips instead of nails or hammers that could cause expensive damage to the frames and doors of the windows and doors.

Boarded windows provide protection during severe weather conditions, like a tornado or hurricane. These windows guard against flying debris, service for boarding up windows windborne items and heavy rains. They help reduce the risk of mold and other damages to the property by blocking water intrusion. They also guard against vandals, which is crucial for commercial properties such as shops and office buildings.

If you live in a place susceptible to storms and hurricanes, it is recommended to secure your windows as soon as the hurricane warning is issued. This will save you money in the long run. You can also shield your valuables from theft.

Prevents Water Damage

By boarding up a doorway up your windows, you can prevent debris and rain from getting in after the storm. This can stop windows from leaking, and help to avoid water damage to the interior of the building. This is an excellent option for commercial buildings, like offices and retail stores because it helps to minimize damage and the cost of repairs.

It also assists in protecting against theft. A window that is not in use is an open entrance for thieves, which could result in costly burglaries, as well as other issues. Boarding services can prevent this issue by securing the property at the same time.

When you use an expert service to board windows, they will take care of all the details. They will supply strong materials to measure each window with care, and then cut the plywood sheets to size. They will also provide nails or screws for the boards to be secured in place. This assures that the boards are installed and will remain in place during a storm or other emergency.

This is a great method to prepare for severe weather conditions, like a hurricane or tornado or even a tornado, and it can be beneficial if your house is in a flood zone or a location that is subject to frequent storms. Boarding can also help protect homes that are vacant, such as an abandoned or foreclosed home, from theft and vandalism.

Although it is possible to board up a window on your own, this process can be time-consuming and requires specialized tools. It also requires drilling holes into the wall, which is difficult if you are unfamiliar with this type of work. You'll also need to find a place to store the boards once they are not in use.

Increases Security

Boarding up windows adds an extra layer of protection to your property. In addition to protecting against breakage from severe weather, this solution conceals sharp edges that could hurt employees or customers. This allows you to keep operating until the window is fixed. This is particularly important for businesses located in areas that are vulnerable to severe weather, like tornado alley, hurricane zones and other locations.

Boarded windows can also be used to increase the security of vacant properties such as those under renovation or foreclosure. The windows that are open can be a typical entry point for burglars and vandals who are looking for vacant homes. Boarding up the windows will stop criminals from entering and also safeguard valuables.

When you are choosing a boarding option ensure that you choose sturdy plywood. This kind of wood is affordable and easy to find at any hardware store. It also has the advantage of being a deterrent to criminals and squatters. Then, you can nail the plywood to the frame of your window at 12 inch intervals. Then, caulk the screw holes.

The practice of boarding windows up is a good short-term solution for severe weather damage. It protects the windows from wind-borne debris, and also stops the glass from breaking. This can cause internal flooding, as well as other issues. It's a great choice for homes that are currently in the process of or being rented out or sold. This can help ensure your investment is protected and keep your home or apartment secure until you're ready to sell it. If your property is in the process of renovations, boarding windows can protect them from dust or other construction materials that could damage the glass. This is particularly important for older buildings or those with fragile glass.

Reduces Energy Costs

Although it might appear counterintuitive, boarding your windows will help you save money in the long run. This is because boards are insulated and they prevent cold air from entering during winter and hot air from entering during the summer. In addition, boarded up windows will stop condensation from forming on the glass, which could lead to mildew and other problems.

Apart from securing your property from storm damage by boarding your windows, it will shield your property from vandalism as well as other unwelcome intruders. A damaged window is a prime target for unwelcome intruders, squatters and others and boards protect your windows until a repair crew or window installer can arrive to complete the repairs.

If you reside in a region prone to severe weather conditions like heavy rains or hurricanes you should board your windows to safeguard your home. The proper installation of plywood boards will reduce the chance of window damage as well as interior damage caused by water, and structural damage due to wind-borne debris.

While you could secure your windows yourself, it is recommended to work with a professional. Professionals have the tools, materials and experience required to get the job done quickly and efficiently. They know how to put up the boards properly so they're robust and durable. Consider using plastic sheeting as an alternative to boarding your windows. It will provide the same security against vandals, squatters, and thieves, but is more attractive. It will not affect the appearance of your home. This is particularly crucial if you are planning to sell your house in the future.

Preventing damage during renovations

Boarding up windows will prevent further damage to your home during renovations. Construction debris tools, heavy materials and tools can pose a risk to shattered windows and can cause costly repairs. Boarding up windows while renovating protects them from these hazards and also safeguards the structure of the building.

Window boards can also deter burglars and vandals from damaging your property. They make it more difficult for guests who aren't welcome to gain access and provide the security many homeowners feel comfortable with. This is especially crucial in areas that are susceptible to burglaries or periods of prolonged vacancy.

The boarding up windows service process starts with exact measurements of your windows. This will ensure that the OSB or plywood fits snugly. Professionals will employ a circular or jigsaw saw to cut the boards precisely to the dimensions of the window leaving a tiny gap at each corner, typically around 1/4 inch. They will then drill the plywood and into the window frame using a drill with needle point screws. This eliminates the need to hammer nails, which could damage the windows and walls.

Once the boards have been put in place, you can secure them with hurricane clips to prevent them from moving in an incoming storm. These clips are a fantastic option to nails, as they don't make holes that pests can exploit later. These clips are much easier to take off once the damage is done.

Boarding services are a smart investment for any homeowner or business owner, whether they need them after a natural disaster or to prevent an extreme storm. The service for boarding up windows (see this page) is typically inexpensive and quickly pays for itself by stopping further damage to the property, and the subsequent costs of repair.