If you are dealing with broken windows or live in a stormy area, you should know how to board up windows.
To help out, we have outlined some methods that will work for broken windows or storm prep. One of these methods needs to use screws (best for vinyl siding or wood framing), and the other one needs to use clips (best for stucco or masonry houses).
To continue, we will tell you everything you need to know about setting up a glass board-up.
How to Board Up Windows: Securing Plywood with Screws
As mentioned above, this method is good for wood framing or vinyl siding.
To board up windows using screws, follow these structures:
- Use a tape measure to determine the width and height of the windows and window framings; no need to measure the surrounding trim.
- Cut the plywood 20 cm larger than your measurement. If your window has an extended sill, cut the plywood 10 cm smaller than your measurement.
- For big windows, cut two discrete sheets of plywood so that each of them is half the size of the window, and then lay them edge-to-edge on a flat surface to give you the shape and size you need.
- If you have wood siding, you need to look for rows of nail holes to know the location of the studs on the sides. If you have vinyl siding, drill one or more tiny, discreet pilot holes to ensure there is a solid wood frame underneath.
- After transferring the stud location measurements to the plywood sheets, drill every four corners of the plywood based on the stud locations. The pilot holes should ideally be at least 2 inches (5.1 cm) from the plywood sheet’s edges on all sides.
- Start at one of the corners and set a maximum distance of 12 inches (30 cm) between each perimeter pilot hole’s placements. Use the same diameter drill bit used for the corner holes to create these pilot holes.
- Ask a friend to hold the panel as you screw it over the window.
How to Board Up Windows on a Brick House: Clipping Plywood into Masonry or Stucco Houses
- Take the window’s height and width measurements before you board it up.
- Cut the plywood to 0.64 cm less than your measurement using a circular saw. If you do not have a circular saw, get your plywood cut to size at a home improvement store.
- If your window opening is bigger than a standard plywood sheet, cut two separate plywood sheets that are each half the size of the window opening.
- To make the tension legs face in your direction, press on a clip near the top left corner of the plywood sheet. Place a second clip close to the bottom left corner, then place a series of clips apart with a minimum space of 61 cm between them. Give the clips a few light taps with a hammer once they are firmly in position. Do the same thing on the right side.
- Line up the sheet over the window opening, then firmly but gently press it into the opening until the “teeth” on the tension legs of the window clips firmly grasp the surrounding materials. As soon as the sheet stops moving, stop pressing.
Alternatives to Boarding Up Windows
Hurricane Fabric
Hurricane fabric is a popular alternative to plywood board-up windows because it is far simpler to install and remove. Simply clip it into place over doors and windows and unclip it after the storm has passed.
Safety and Security Window Film
Please note that security window film is not as strong as plywood and cannot stop glass from breaking.
A flexible Mylar coating is a type of security window film that goes right on top of the existing glass and keeps it in place if it shatters. It lessens the possibility of being hurt by flying glass fragments and helps keep out water, wind, and storm debris that could cause more harm.
Storm Panels
One commercial alternative to boarding up the window is a storm panel. Storm panels are a more convenient option and are corrugated metal or plastic sheets attached to the framing and siding around the doors & windows to protect the glass during the storm.
Additionally, there are attractive pre-cut clear plastic storm panels that allow natural light into the room and do not completely block your view of the outside.
Hurricane Shutters
One attractive permanent solution for boarded-up windows is to use hurricane shutters. There are expensive, convenient, and aesthetically pleasing options.
They also have different styles:
- Accordion shutters
- Roll-down hurricane shutters
- Colonial-style louvered shutters
- Bermuda shutters and Bahama shutters
No matter the style, all hurricane shutters can be used as a permanent solution to board up windows. They mount above or beside windows and doors. When the storm is coming, lower them into place with the push of a button or a hand crank.
Laminated Security Glass
An invisible, impact-resistant barrier is laminated security glass. It is a particular type of security glass consisting of an impact-resistant thermoplastic interlayer bonded between two layers of sturdy glass.
They look and feel like regular windows while providing a high level of storm damage protection, making them very popular among coastal residents.
The security glass is a powerful barrier to prevent all damage in some storms. The glass may maintain its shape and strength even if a piece of storm debris breaks it, continuing to defend your home.
The Importance of Emergency Board-Up Services
Emergencies strike without warning and when you are unprepared for them. Disaster occurs swiftly and mercilessly, which causes serious damage to your property’s doors and windows.
With the emergency board-up services, any vulnerable entryways will be covered with plywood and, consequently, protect your property from criminal activity, and damages caused by aftershocks, ultimately saving you considerable money.
Aside from that, emergency board-up services will assist you in your insurance payout. You must wait for an insurance adjuster to examine the damages and validate your claim after a natural disaster. Thus, you must take all necessary steps to protect your property and prevent further damage if you want to increase your chances of getting your claim approved and receiving a payout.
FAQ
Can we board up windows from the inside?
Yes, you can, but you must only use plywood. This is not a recommended solution because there is always a chance that a storm will shatter windows, loosen the plywood, and cause it to fall inside with the glass. So, it is better not to use this method to board up windows.
How do I board up a window from outside?
- Step 1: Measure the plywood.
- Step 2: Drill the plywood.
- Step 3: Identify the locations of the mounting screws.
- Step 4: Affix the boards.
Which equipment is necessary for boarded windows?
- Circular saw
- Measuring tape
- Drill
Which materials are the best for boarded-up windows?
- Plywood
- Nails
- Screws
CONCLUSION
Remember, not all storm barriers provide the same strength, but choosing the right products will ensure that you find a solution that suits your needs.
If you are looking for a reliable company to board up windows, contact Esna Glass and Aluminum Co. to discuss the best products for retrofitting your house or business.
