Windows are the biggest opening of the house and also the least secure. Most areas that experience hurricanes have a growing trend of boarding up their windows to prevent damage to the house from the winds.
To board up windows on a brick house, measure your windows and then cut the boarding material with the same dimensions as the windows. Install your boarding material onto the windows with the help of screws and secure it further using a caulk.
Whether you are looking to board up your windows yourself or get an idea of how it is done so you can hire a professional, this article will give you all the information you need.
Why Do Windows In Brick Houses Need To Be Boarded Up?
Houses are sturdy and strong, so why is there a need to board up windows? Below we look at some reasons why people board up their windows.
- Natural Disasters – In some areas prone to natural disasters like hurricanes, storms, or fires, windows are recommended to be boarded up to protect homes. If windows are boarded up in brick homes, it reduces the chances of flying debris and strong winds impacting the home.
- Security – Sometimes, windows are boarded up to secure the home against safety threats like burglars or intruders. This makes the home harder to break into, ensuring safety and allowing homeowners peace of mind.
- Closure – If you are relocating from your home or are leaving for some time, it is a good idea to board up your windows to indicate closure and secure the home. This also helps preserve any sunlight or wind from entering the home and damaging any elements inside the home.
Picking The Right Board To Board Up Windows
Many different materials are available in the market that are used to board up windows. Plywood is most commonly used; most boarded-up windows have plywood attached to them.
Some other materials include OSB, MDF, polycarbonate, and metal sheets. Your pick will depend on the following factors.
- Budget – Your budget determines how much you are willing to spend. Some boarding materials are expensive and often used for commercial purposes only. Depending on how much you want to invest into the safety of your home, you may choose whichever material works best.
- Purpose – The purpose for which you are using the board must be considered before choosing the boarding material. For instance, metal sheets are often used for security purposes, but plywood works best against natural disasters.
- Appearance – Each boarding material has its own appearance and will likely impact how your house appears to others. Consider which material would go well with your home if you are particular about aesthetics.
Supplies Needed
When boarding up windows on a brick house, you’ll need a few supplies to get the job done properly. Below is a list of the most basic materials that you would require.
- Measuring Tape
- Plywood or Other Boarding Material
- Screws or Nails
- Drill or Hammer
- Saw
- Safety Glasses
- Gloves
- Ladder
- Caulk
Safety Measures Before Boarding Up Windows
Your security must be your top priority while trying to get this job done. These safety measures may not seem important, but they can save you from injuries and serious conditions; we recommend you consider these.
- Protective Gear – While securing your house by boarding up the windows, do not forget about your safety. Wear all the necessary protective gear. This includes safety glasses and gloves. You can add safety gear to avoid any sharp objects from injuring you.
- Secure Your Ladder – Usually, you would need a ladder to reach your windows. Ensure your ladder is placed against the wall so it does not move. You can tie it with ropes to a heavy object for additional safety.
- Have Someone Help You – Working alone can often cause a rush and may lead to injuries. Hence, it is important to have someone help you by offering assistance and checking safety measures.
- Be Wary Of Electric Hazards – The area on your walls near the windows may have loose wiring or appliances attached to them. Ensure that the electricity is turned off; if the hazard is serious, make sure to deal with it before you move on to boarding up the windows.
- Follow The Instructions – Following the instructions can help you go through the process smoothly without confusion. If you wish to do a good job, follow all the instructions mentioned in this article or the ones the manufacturer recommends.
How To Board Up Windows On A Brick House?
Let us get into the process. We urge you to stay calm and focused throughout the time it takes to complete the job. The instructions below are detailed and provide an adequate basic guide you may build upon as you like.
Do not hesitate to ask for help from people who may have previously boarded up their windows.
Measure The Windows
Before you begin the installation process, you must measure your windows to know how much of the boarding material you will use. Take your measuring tape and measure the length and width of the window as accurately as possible.
Cut The Board
With your measurements, draw guides on the boarding material to help guide you. Once done, cut the boarding material up to fit the window’s dimensions. You can label each piece of the board to remember which window it belongs to and avoid confusion.
Install The Board
For installation of the board, hold it up against the window frame. This is where you will need assistance the most. Now, drill the board into the window frame with screws. There is no limit on how many screws to use; you can use as many as you think are necessary to perfectly secure the board.
Seal The Board
Given why you are boarding up your windows, it may be important to seal the boards to avoid any air entering. Leaving air passages also increases the chances of the board coming off the window with high wind pressure. Apply some caulk or weatherstripping to all the board’s edges.
Final Thoughts
The process of boarding up your windows may seem daunting at first, but if you follow the instructions given in this article and heed the safety precautions, you will get the job done in no time. We believe in you!