Boarding Up a Doorway

emergency boarding up up a doorway keeps rain, snow and hail from further causing damage to the property. It also keeps scavengers and vandals away.

Doors are more secure than windows, yet they can still be kicked in or broken down. They must be paired with strong door frames made of composite material which won't change shape over time.

Take a look at the Doorway

A doorway is a hole in a wall that you can go in or out of the building, room, or passageway. A doorway can also be an access point that allows you to go to a different location like a different room in the house or another part of the country.

To determine how large a doorway is, you'll have to measure the doorway. Utilizing a tape measure begin by measuring the length of the inside of the frame from one side to the other. Before taking this measurement, it is crucial to remove any brickmould or trim pieces. This will ensure that you are measuring the frame and not the actual doors or windows. Measure these measurements in three places and use the largest number as the size of the doorway.

If you are looking to replace the existing door, you should take a measurement of the door's rough opening. It is possible to do this without removing the existing door by removing the old one away from the jamb with the wide tool. This will reveal the rough framing which will be used to hang the new door. Take the height of the opening in three places and then use the smallest number to determine the height of the new door.

You can also determine the width of the doorway by using a tape measure to measure the frame at three different locations: center, left and right. Take the measurement with the highest value to determine the width. This is the best way to ensure that the plywood will cover the entire surface and allow you to build the door or window you want to replace.

Measure the Frame

By securing windows doors, windows, and other openings which let in elements can provide a measureable amount of protection for your home. The first step is to carefully examine each window to determine its size and shape, and then measure the width of the frame. Make note of each measurement so that you can cut the plywood boards accurately.

Before you start, wear protective gear to safeguard against broken glass and other hazards. Also, it's best to work with a colleague in order to handle large plywood sheets is more efficient with a second set of hands.

Use wide masking tape to seal the cracks and then remove any panes which cannot be taped. Cover the remaining panes with heavy plastic garbage bags. Seal the trash bags from the inside to increase their strength.

If the frame is still good and sturdy, you can cut down on time by running a brand new stud across the gap in the middle of the window. This will give your board-up additional strength without the need to take off and replace the framing.

Take a few sheets of plywood and a few tools such as a drill and hammer (if you need to cut the sheets). Based on the frame's dimensions and marking each board with the window number that corresponds to it. Then, using the pilot holes that you drilled earlier, connect the plywood to the frame.

Take a look at the Jambs

The jambs are three pieces wood to which the door is directly mounted. They're crucial in keeping doors shut properly and should be snug and level. You'll need to adjust your jambs if they aren't level.

Start with the hinge side jambs that have a raised section towards the center, which is known as the doorstop. The doorstop sits on the slab of the door to keep it from hitting the frame as it closes. Attach a piece of plywood to the bottom of each stud, so that it raises the floor inside the opening in about 1/2 inch (photo). This will keep the door from scuffing against the carpet, tile or throw rug when it is opened and closed.

To get a precise measurement for the hinge side jamb, you must remove any trim or molding attached to it. This will reveal the rough opening so you can measure it accurately.

After you've measured, mark the locations of the hinge holes on both sides of the hinge jamb. Using a combination square, find the mortise depth of the hinge and adjust the combination square until it's equal to the mark you made on the hinge jamb. This will ensure that the hinge is centered in the frame and aligned to your door. Repeat the procedure on the jamb side of the door. Utilize a nail gun as well as 2-1/2-inch screws to secure the strike side.

Take a look at the Header

A header is a heavy dimensional lumber board that is nailed to the wall framing. It carries loads above the door and window openings to the studs below. When properly framed, the king studs nailed to the opposite end of the header and the jack studs that are rubbing up against it on both sides create a strong support column that transfers weight from above the opening down to the floor and foundation.

In traditional framed houses it is possible to use a series of tables in the code to determine the size of the header for a specific span. The code contains tables for three different building widths. Interpolation can be used to determine the proper size of the header.

There are more efficient alternatives than the standard 2x12 header. They can save lumber, cut down on thermal bridges and allow for more space to be used for insulation. Builder Mike Guertin takes a look at these options and when they're suitable:

He also talks about the rim-board headers that bridge an opening without the need of a header. This eliminates an element in framing and often results in stronger frames. He also discusses box headers, which are more difficult to build, but offer greater spans than single-ply. He also covers the fastening schedule of these alternative headers. This requires 8d common nail spaced at a distance of 3 inches.

Cut the Boards

It is crucial to thoroughly prepare the area before boarding up service up an entranceway. To make enough room for work and to prevent damage to your possessions, take down all furniture and décor. Take out the doorknobs, locks, and other hardware and put them in a safe place for later installation. To increase adhesion, clean the door and frame, and wipe down all surfaces to remove dirt and dust. If necessary smooth rough patches to ensure that the boards fit properly and provide effective protection.

Once the doorway is cleared, you can begin cutting the plywood. A good circular saw can make straight cuts and cut through wood quickly, while a jigsaw can handle curved areas. Wearing protective gear, such as safety goggles as well as a dust mask, is essential during this process.

After the board is cut to size, it is crucial to check its alignment with the frame and jambs. It is also recommended to add a few vertical pieces lumber to the bottom of the board for reinforcement. Once the board has been properly aligned and secured, it is now ready to be nailed in place.

A doorway that is boarded up can help protect your home or business from damage and unauthorized entry during a disaster, storm or other occurrence. It can also be used to secure vacant properties or prevent break-ins and theft until the property is occupied. Carefully evaluating the circumstances and the need of the emergency boarding up services up can aid in the material selection and the method of installation for the most effective results.

Install the Boards

The boards should be screwed down with heavy-duty screws instead of nails. The strength of these fasteners will help distribute the pressure and prevent prying, enhancing the effectiveness of your board. Sealing the edges with caulk or weatherstripping will prevent the wind and water from flowing through gaps. It's a good idea also to leave a ventilation gap in order to prevent humid air and stuffy air.

If you're using a power drill, be sure you wear gloves and goggles for safety. You should also make use of a straightedge and pencil to mark your cutting, as mistakes can be difficult to correct once you're done cutting. You'll have to be as precise as possible when cutting the boards to ensure that they are perfectly positioned against the door frame and casing. The next step is to clean the jambs and the head to ensure that they're even with the surface of the wall.

It is best to do this before the storm hits to ensure you have plenty of time to cover other areas that are vulnerable. A little planning will save you a lot of time and help you prepare your business or home for a possible catastrophe. With the right preparation, your property can be protected from criminals and damage from flying debris and wind. You will also have peace of mind knowing your property is secure.