How to Board up Windows for Hurricane Protection: A Comprehensive Guide
How to Board up Windows for Hurricane?
To board up windows for a hurricane, start by investing in hurricane shutters for the sturdiest and safest protection.
However, if shutters are not available, follow these steps:
1.
Gather the necessary supplies: circular saw, large washers, ⅝-inch thick plywood (recommended by FLASH), corrosion-resistant screws, measuring tape, drill & drill bits, and barrel bolts (for masonry homes).
2.
Cut the plywood panels to cover the windows, ensuring they extend at least one inch beyond the framing on all sides.
3.
Mark the location of the studs closest to each side and underneath the window before installing plywood.
4.
Drill pilot holes every 16 inches through the plywood and into the framing, and secure the plywood with corrosion-resistant screws.
5.
For homes with vinyl siding, overlap the plywood panels over the window by four inches and drill holes into the studs every 12 to 16 inches.
6.
For homes with brick or stucco exterior, place the plywood on the inside of the window frame using 4-inch barrel bolts spaced 15 inches apart.
7.
Consider using security window films on the inside to keep the glass in place if the windows break, and use glass window clips to ensure windows stay shut.
8.
If plywood is unavailable, alternative materials such as insulation board, oriented strand board, or polycarbonate panels can be used.
It is important to follow these guidelines for properly boarding up windows to protect against hurricane damage.
Key Points:
- Invest in hurricane shutters for the sturdiest and safest protection
- Gather necessary supplies including plywood, screws, drill, measuring tape, and barrel bolts for masonry homes
- Cut plywood panels to cover windows, extending at least one inch beyond framing on all sides
- Mark studs closest to each side and underneath the window before installing plywood
- Drill pilot holes every 16 inches through plywood and into framing, secure with corrosion-resistant screws
- For homes with vinyl siding, overlap plywood panels over the window by four inches and drill holes into studs every 12 to 16 inches
Did You Know?
1. In addition to protecting against hurricane-force winds, boarding up windows can also help safeguard your home against potential looting and break-ins during a hurricane. By covering windows, you make it more difficult for outsiders to gain access to your property.
2. The practice of boarding up windows during hurricanes dates back as early as the 18th century. Coastal residents in the United States would use wooden boards to protect their homes against the destructive forces of tropical storms.
3. The thickness of the plywood used to board up windows during a hurricane can determine its effectiveness. For optimal protection, it is recommended to use at least 5/8 inch thick plywood. Thinner plywood may not withstand the strong winds and debris impact as effectively.
4. While boarding up windows is essential for hurricane preparedness, it is crucial not to neglect proper ventilation. Ensure that you leave a small gap between the boards or utilize vent caps to allow air circulation. Proper ventilation helps reduce the risk of excessive pressure build-up within the structure during the storm.
5. Did you know that using duct tape or masking tape to secure windows during a hurricane is not recommended? Contrary to popular belief, tape does not prevent a window from shattering in high winds. Instead, it may create larger shards of glass that can pose an even greater risk of injury. Plywood is the superior choice for window protection in hurricane-prone areas.
The Benefits Of Hurricane Shutters And Boarding Up Windows
Protecting your home during a hurricane should be a top priority to safeguard your family and property. Investing in hurricane shutters, which are considered the sturdiest and safest option, is highly recommended. However, for those on a budget, boarding up windows can serve as a reliable alternative.
When a hurricane is approaching, the high winds and flying debris can cause significant damage to unprotected windows. This not only poses a threat to your family’s safety but also leads to costly repairs or replacements. By boarding up windows, you create a barrier that adds an extra layer of protection for your home.
To summarize the key points:
- Invest in hurricane shutters for the sturdiest and safest protection.
- Board up windows as a reliable alternative for those on a budget.
Please let me know if you need further assistance.
Essential Supplies For Boarding Up Windows
To board up windows effectively, you’ll need several essential supplies that will help you secure the plywood in place. Make sure you have the following items on hand before a hurricane hits:
- Circular saw: This tool will allow you to cut the plywood to the appropriate size for each window.
- Large washers: These will help distribute the pressure evenly when securing the plywood with screws.
- Plywood: The Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH) recommends using ⅝-inch thick plywood. It’s important to invest in exterior-grade plywood, such as CDX, to ensure durability and resistance to the elements.
- Screws: Use corrosion-resistant screws, preferably made of stainless steel or coated with a protective material, to secure the plywood to the window frame.
- Measuring tape: Accurate measurements are crucial for ensuring the plywood fits snugly over each window.
- Drill and drill bits: You’ll need a drill to create pilot holes before driving in the screws.
- Barrel bolts (for masonry homes): If your home has a brick or stucco exterior, you’ll need barrel bolts to hold the plywood in place.
Guidelines For Boarding Up Windows On Different Types Of Homes
The process of boarding up windows may vary depending on the type of home you have. Here are some guidelines to follow for different home exteriors:
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For homes with vinyl siding, the plywood panels should be cut to overlap the window frame by at least four inches. To secure the plywood, drill holes into the studs every 12 to 16 inches.
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If your home has a brick or stucco exterior, the plywood should be placed on the inside of the window frame. Use 4-inch barrel bolts to hold the plywood in place, spacing them approximately 15 inches apart. Ensure that the bolts fit into holes drilled into the masonry, rather than the grout joint.
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For added security, consider using security window films on the inside of the window to keep the glass in place if it breaks. Additionally, glass window clips can be used to ensure that windows remain shut during the storm.
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Remember to take necessary precautions when boarding up windows to protect your home during severe weather conditions.
Alternative Materials For Window Boarding
In the event that plywood is unavailable, there are alternative materials that can be used for window boarding. Some options include:
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Insulation board: This is a lightweight and cost-effective alternative to plywood. However, it may not be as sturdy or durable as plywood.
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Oriented strand board (OSB): While OSB is another alternative, it is important to note that plywood has 30 percent greater impact strength than OSB. Consider this when choosing the material for your window boarding.
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Polycarbonate panels: These panels are a popular alternative to plywood. They are lighter and allow natural light into your home. Additionally, polycarbonate panels offer good impact resistance and can be easily cut to fit various window sizes.
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Insulation board
- Oriented strand board (OSB)
- Polycarbonate panels
Note: Plywood has 30 percent greater impact strength than OSB.
Important Tips For Installing Hurricane Plywood
Installing hurricane plywood is a two-person job, especially with large panels. Ensure you have assistance to safely and effectively maneuver the plywood into place.
Before installing the plywood, mark the location of the studs closest to each side and underneath the window. This ensures that the plywood can be securely attached to the framing.
When cutting the plywood panels, be sure to allow for at least a one-inch extension beyond the framing on all sides of the window. This allows for a proper fit and ensures maximum protection.
To secure the plywood to the framing, use corrosion-resistant screws, such as galvanized pan-heads or lags. It is recommended to drill pilot holes through the plywood and into the framing every 16 inches before driving in the screws. This helps prevent the plywood from splitting during installation.
Consider installing stainless-steel hanger bolts during the off season in areas prone to hurricanes. This allows for quick mounting of plywood panels when a storm threatens. Simply secure the panels with nuts and washers.
Special Considerations For Masonry Homes
For masonry houses, the installation process differs slightly. Plywood panels should be fitted inside the window opening and held in place with 4-inch barrel bolts spaced no more than 16 inches apart. Ensure the barrel bolts fit into holes drilled in the masonry, not just the grout joint.
By following these guidelines and taking the necessary precautions, you can effectively board up your windows and provide additional protection for your home during a hurricane.
Remember, the safety of your family and property should always be the top priority when preparing for severe weather conditions.
- Fit plywood panels inside the window opening.
- Use 4-inch barrel bolts to hold the panels in place.
- Space the barrel bolts no more than 16 inches apart.
- Ensure the barrel bolts fit into holes drilled in the masonry, not just the grout joint.
“The safety of your family and property should always be the top priority when preparing for severe weather conditions.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you board up windows during a hurricane?
Yes, it is highly recommended to board up windows during a hurricane to minimize potential wind damage and protect against flying debris. This proactive measure allows home and business owners to safeguard their windows and doors, which are vulnerable points of entry for strong winds and projectiles. By boarding up, individuals take crucial steps to mitigate the risk of destruction and enhance the overall structural integrity of their property during a hurricane.
How do you block windows in a hurricane?
One effective way to block windows during a hurricane is by installing storm shutters. These shutters, such as roll-up or accordion types, are permanent fixtures that can be easily rolled or pulled into place when a storm is approaching. By activating the storm shutters, homeowners can provide a protective barrier that helps prevent damage to windows, reducing the risk of shattered glass and potential harm to the interior of their homes.
What do you put on windows during a hurricane?
During a hurricane, it is recommended to use hurricane film on windows as a protective measure. This transparent adhesive film reinforces window glass, preventing it from shattering and potentially becoming dangerous debris. Not only does the hurricane film provide safety, but it also allows natural light to enter and can double as a UV screen, making it a functional year-round addition to windows.
What are the most effective materials and techniques to properly board up windows in preparation for a hurricane?
When boarding up windows in preparation for a hurricane, it is important to use materials that are strong and durable. Plywood is a popular choice as it provides a sturdy barrier against strong winds and flying debris. Make sure to choose a plywood thickness of at least 5/8 inch for optimal protection. It is also important to properly secure the plywood to the window frame using screws or nails to ensure it does not come loose during the storm. Additionally, using impact-resistant window film can provide an extra layer of protection by preventing glass from shattering and effectively reducing the risk of injury or further damage.
In terms of techniques, start by measuring and cutting the plywood pieces to fit each window precisely. Nail or screw the plywood to the window frame, placing fasteners every 6-12 inches around the edges and in the center of each panel. To further reinforce the boards, add additional fasteners 2-3 inches from the outer edges. It is crucial to ensure a tight and secure fit, leaving no gaps or spaces that could allow wind or water to enter. Additionally, consider labeling each plywood piece and creating a system that allows for quick and efficient installation when time is limited before the hurricane hits.