How to Board Up Windows for Hurricane Protection

How to Board Up Windows for Hurricanes in San Jose, CA?

Hurricanes pose significant risks to homes and commercial properties. High winds, flying debris, rain, dust, and hail can break windows, dent doors, and cause other serious and costly problems. The best way to protect your property is to be vigilant and proactive about storm preparation. In addition to securing your roof, strengthening entry doors and garage doors, and bringing in outdoor items, you should also board up windows. Here is your comprehensive guide to how to board up windows for hurricanes in San Jose, CA.

Why It’s So Important to Board Up Windows Before a Storm

Properly boarding up your windows before a storm can prevent them from shattering due to high winds and flying debris. Damaged windows can increase your risk of flooding, water and structural damage, injury, and electrical problems. Some of the reasons you should be diligent about securing your window are:

• Protect your window glass and home from flying debris
• Reduce the risk of shattered windows or the need for costly window replacement
• Avoid water intrusion, damage, and flooding
• Lower the chances of injury
• Increase safety, security, and comfort
• Comply with your insurance policy
• Mitigate legal and financial risk associated with storm damage

The Best Time to Board Up Windows for Hurricanes

Many homeowners and property owners wonder what hurricane wind speed is required to board up their windows. The truth is, the answer depends on how far inland you live, what type of windows you have, how old your windows and home are, and how concerned you are with preventing damage. While categories one and two are severe storms, a category three or four storm necessitates comprehensive storm protection measures.

To play it safe, you should board up your windows at least 36-48 hours before a hurricane is expected to make landfall, even if you aren’t sure how serious the storm will be. It’s better to be overprepared than to risk injury or hazards caused by trying to board up windows and secure doors during a storm. Also consider hurricane-proofing your home:

• When a hurricane watch is issued.
• Before the wind picks up.
• At the first sign of a threat.
• If you won’t be home when the storm hits.
• If you have older, single-pane windows.
• If you have pets, children, or older people in the home who are in danger of injury.

Essential Tools & Materials for Boarding Up Windows

If your home doesn’t have exterior shutters, you will need to use wood to protect your windows. The best materials and tools to have on hand are:

• Measuring tape
• Circular saw or handsaw
• Power drill
• Screwdriver
• Hammer
• Safety goggles, gloves, and a dust mask
• CDX exterior-grade plywood with a minimum ½ to ¾ inch thickness
• Fasteners like long deck screws, lag screws, or nails
• Sealant or caulk
• Framing anchors
• Removable brackets

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Board Up Windows

At least 72 hours before the storm, or at the advent of hurricane season if you live in a high-risk area, you should start preparing your windows. You can either plan to board them up when a hurricane watch is issued, or invest in removable boards or hurricane shutters, which can be used over and over again. If you’re going to board your windows up and remove the boards after the storm, follow these steps:

• Measure Your Windows – Start by measuring the height and width of your window frame from the outside of your home. Write down the measurements, adding four inches to each side. Measure each window separately to account for slight differences in size.
• Cut Your Wood – Cut your plywood to the appropriate measurements.
• Label Each Section – Label each section of plywood so that you know which window it is for.
• Seal the Wood – If you plan on removing the wood and then reusing it during the next storm, you should seal it with a high-quality, heavy-duty waterproof sealant.
• Mark Your Drill Holes – Mark the drill hole locations on your plywood and your exterior windows. Space each hole a foot apart and at least 1.5 inches from the edge. If you are installing framing anchors or brackets, mark the holes for these as well.
• Drill Pilot Holes – Use a power drill to drill pilot holes in the board and the exterior of your home.
• Position the Boards – Position the boards and the framing anchors and brackets properly, so they align with the drilled holes. Ensure the wood is flush so that the entire piece of window glass is covered.
• Secure the Boards – Secure the plywood on the framing anchors or wall using your screws or nails.
• Assess for Stability – Make sure the board is secure and does not move when jostled.

Alternative Window Protection Methods

While boarding up your windows is a flexible, affordable option, there are more permanent and secure ways to protect them during a storm. If you have an older home, vacation home, or secondary home that you don’t use often, or just want added protection, you can use:

• Storm Panels – Storm panels are lightweight but heavy-duty metal or polycarbonate panels that are mounted onto tracks on your windows or bolted directly onto your home. They can be removed and stored once hurricane season has passed.
• Hurricane Shutters – Hurricane shutters are a form of permanent or long-term storm protection. They are available in a wide range of designs, including colonial, Bahama, roll-down, and accordion shutters. They are mounted on the exterior of the window and either open and close with a hinge or are rolled or folded down or across to cover the windows. They are an attractive alternative to boarding up windows, and also offer a fast solution for surprise storms.
• Hurricane Screens – Hurricane screens are woven screens made of a high-strength fabric. They offer a strong defense against dust, wind, and debris. They are lighter than storm panels but may not withstand category four storms.

Call J & M Windows And Glass for Help Preparing Windows

J&M Windows and Glass specializes in the installation of new and replacement windows, as well as skylights, patio doors, and shower doors. Our experts can install storm windows, which provide more durable protection against wind, rain, hail, debris, and storm damage. We carry Andersen and Marvin windows and doors rated for hurricane impact and extreme conditions. We can also refer you to local experts who offer professional hurricane board-up windows service in and around San Jose, CA. Call us now or contact us online to schedule a consultation or request an estimate.