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Boarding up Windows and Doors to Stay Protected from Storm in London

Why and How to Board Up Windows and Doors for Storm Protection

Posted On: 18th Sep 2019

Are you planning for doors and windows boarding up of your home or office due to an upcoming storm in? If you are, the earlier you do it, the more prepared you will be to handle the situation and potentially reduce the damages caused to your properties. Like a storm or an earthquake, weather forecasters may predict accurately the possible strength and path of a storm before it hits your location. This advanced observation provides both home and business owners sufficient time to get prepared for the storm. One of these preparations is the boarding up of doors and windows to protect from flying debris and wind damage.

Boarding up windows and doors will not avoid all the damage but rather, it can avoid some kind of repairs that are associated with extreme storms. Read to know how you can board up your house or office windows before the storm hits.

How to Board Up Windows for Storm

The key for boarding up your windows and doors effectively for the storm is to do it soon. When there is a sudden storm, you won’t be able to find the important supplies and the prices may increase due to high demand. Avoid running low on key supplies such as plywood by stocking up all through the year. Some supplies to keep ready are the following:

  • Plywood
  • Measuring Tape
  • Drill
  • Circular Saw
  • Window Clips
  • Nails
  • Screws

If you do not have the necessary supplies ready, it is suggested that you get your hands on them as soon as possible.

After collecting all the needed supplies, make sure you go through these vital steps for emergency boarding up the windows in London:

1. Measure the plywood properly – It is suggested to use plywood which is at least 5/8 of an inch thick. When you measure the plywood for the doors or the windows, try adding an extra four inches at each side if there is vinyl siding in your house to protect the windows from getting blown out. After knowing the exact plywood you require, cut the pieces with a circular saw. It is best to do it from outside before the weather turns bad and so, you may start the procedure quickly once you are aware there will be a storm.

2. Drill holes in the plywood – You can create holes of the same diameter size as the screws in the plywood by using a drill. You will need to drill holes two inches from the edge of each corner of plywood and 12-inch intervals around every panel.

3. Mark your plywood – When holding up your plywood against the window you need to board up, it is advised to mark where you will place the mounting screws. Write the door or window that it is going to be used for on the panel of the plywood. The procedure may be done at any time in the year if you have adequate time to measure, cut, plan and label your door and window covers. Make sure you keep them in a dry and safe place till you need them.

4. Secure your boards – Once you get ready for boarding up the doors and the windows of your house or office, choose marked panels for covering the equivalent openings. Try to screw in each panel carefully and check that each board has been secured tightly.

Whether you are preparing for an upcoming storm or not, it is a good idea to check the condition of your doors and windows and detect any signs of damage or deterioration. If you need door or window repair or replacement before or after the storm, call our local emergency glazier in London. They will be happy to help you with any kind of repair as well as replacement work for any doors and windows of your home or office.