Glass Doctor explains how to board up windows for hurricane protection.
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Wondering if you should board up your home or businesses windows in advance of a hurricane? The simple answer is yes, boarding up windows for hurricanes is important and can help safeguard your home and loved ones.
Unlike a tornado or an earthquake, weather forecasters can accurately predict the likely path and strength of a hurricane well in advance of the storm's landing. This advanced notice provides home and business owners ample time to prepare for the storm. One of these key preparations is the boarding up of windows and doors to protect them from wind damage and flying debris. Boarding up doors and windows won't prevent all damage but can help you avoid some of the repairs associated with large storms.
Read on to learn how to board up windows for hurricane season to prevent home or businesses damage.
How to Board Up Windows for Hurricanes
The key to boarding windows for a hurricane is to do it as early as you can. During hurricane season, important supplies can be hard to find, and prices may skyrocket due to the high demand. Avoid a run on key supplies, like plywood, by stocking up throughout the year. Supplies to keep on hand for boarding windows and doors for hurricane season include:
- Plywood
- Circular Saw
- Measuring Tape
- Drill
- Nails
- Screws
- Window Clips
If you don't have supplies on hand for boarding up windows or doors, we recommend heading to the store as soon as a storm is predicted.
After you've gathered the supplies, follow these steps on how board up your windows for hurricane protection:
- Measure the Plywood The Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH) recommends using plywood that is 5/8 of an inch thick. When measuring the plywood for your windows or doors, be sure to add an additional four inches per side if your home has vinyl siding, as you'll want to protect the windows from being blown out. After you know how much plywood you'll need, cut out the pieces using a circular saw. It's best to do this outside before the bad weather hits, so begin the process as soon as you know a hurricane is coming.
- Drill Holes in the Plywood Using your drill, make holes in your plywood the same diameter size as the screws your using. You'll want to drill the holes two inches from the edge of each corner of plywood and in 12-inch intervals around each panel.
- Mark Your Plywood Holding your plywood up against the window you'll be boarding up, mark where you'll need to place your mounting screws. On the plywood panel, write which window or door it'll be used for. This process can be done at any time during the year. If you have time to plan, measure, cut and label your window and door covers. Be sure to store them in a safe, dry place until you need them. If time allows, consider coating your plywood with paint or sealant to waterproof.
- Secure Your Boards Once you're ready to board up your home or businesses windows and doors, use the marked panels to cover the corresponding openings. Carefully screw in each panel and check that each board is secured tightly.
Glass Doctor Helps with Preparing Windows for Hurricanes – Call Now!
Whether you're prepping for an impending storm or planning for hurricane season, it's a good idea to thoroughly check each window for signs of damage or deterioration. If you need window or door repair or replacement before OR after a storm, you need Glass Doctor. Our local technicians are available for 24/7 emergency service. Call or schedule an appointment online to learn more.
Boarding Up Windows for Hurricane Season FAQ
There are many things to know about boarding windows for hurricane protection and we dive into more below! If you’re wondering if boarding windows and doors is right for you, read on.
Should you board windows for Category 1 hurricanes?
The best time to board up your windows for hurricanes is 36–48 hours before the expected landfall. This timing allows you to avoid last-minute rushes and ensures you’re not working in hazardous conditions. Start preparations as soon as your area is under a hurricane watch or when local authorities advise action. Waiting too long can make it difficult to find supplies and can put you at risk as winds pick up.
Do I need to board up hurricane impact windows before a hurricane hits?
Hurricane impact windows are specifically designed to withstand high winds and flying debris from large storms. If your home has these, you generally do not need to board them up, as they are meant to provide year-round protection. Some homeowners still choose to board up as an extra precaution, especially for severe storms.
How long does it take to board up windows for hurricane protection?
Boarding up windows for hurricane protection typically takes about 30 minutes per window. For an average-sized home, the entire process can take three hours or more, depending on the number of windows and whether your home has multiple stories. If you have your boards pre-cut, labeled, and all necessary tools ready in advance, the process will go much faster. We recommend having a plan in place for hurricane season so window boarding is easier to implement.
