During hurricanes, winds can become strong enough to break through regular single-pane windows. Even if you have reinforced double-pane windows, the storm can throw debris hard enough to smash it and jeopardize the window’s efficiency. You can protect your windows by boarding them up before the bad weather starts.
Here is everything to know about how to board up windows for hurricane season using plywood boards.
How to Board Up Windows on a Wood House
Plywood is the most popular option for boarding up windows. It is affordable, and you can get it in various sizes for different window shapes and designs. You can hire help to do the job or save money by installing the panels yourself.
Follow these steps:
- Your plywood board must be 5/8-inch or 3/4-inch thick. Thinner boards cannot withstand hurricane winds.
- Measure your windows from the outside and add 4 inches to each side of the length and breadth.
- Cut your plywood panels to match your measurements from step 2. Use a circular saw for the cutting, and don’t forget to add the extra 4 inches.
- Label each board to make sure you know which board goes to which window.
- Mark drill holes for the screws on the corners of each board. The holes should be 2 inches from the board’s edge, and each hole should have a 12-inch space between them.
- Place the plywood over the window. Through the drilled holes, mark your building’s exterior. The marks are where you will insert your lag screws.
- Remove the plywood and drill pilot holes for the lag screws at the marked spots.
- Place the panel back and align the holes on the board with the holes on the wall.
- Fasten the board to the wall with washers and lag screws. 2-1/2-inch long lag screws are better for 3×4 feet windows or smaller. For larger windows, use 3-inch long screws.
After the storm passes, you can uninstall the panels and save them for another day.
How to Board Up Windows on a Brick House
- Measure the width and height of each window’s inset. The inset must be at least 2-inches deep.
- Cut the plywood board to fit the inset snugly.
- Label the board for each window and mark which side faces up or down.
- Attach a 3-inch or 4-inch barrel bolt to each of the board’s edges. For large windows, attach bolts at 18-inch intervals along each edge.
- Insert the board in the window’s inlet and mark where the bolt touches the inset.
- Drill a hole straight into the marked spot. The slot must be just wide enough for the bolt to slide into the wall and stay.
- Secure your bolts.
Want Help from the Pros?
You can call the Storm Depot team to board up your Florida home or office windows for you. We work quickly and deliver reliable solutions.
Schedule installation with Storm Depot today to see how to board up windows for hurricanes and keep your home safe.
