The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Boarding Up A Doorway
Boarding Up a Doorway
Boarding up a doorway keeps hail, snow and rain from further damaging the property. It also keeps scavengers as well as vandals away.
Doors are more secure than windows, but they are still susceptible to being broken or kicked into. They must be paired with strong door frames constructed of composite materials which won't change shape over time.
Measure the Doorway
A doorway is a wall opening that lets you enter or leave a room, a building or a passageway. A doorway can be a portal which allows access to another place like a different room in the home or another part of the country.
To determine the size of the doorway is, it's necessary to take measurements. Utilizing a tape measure start by measuring the width of the frame's interior from one side to the other. It is important to remove any trim or brickmould prior to taking this measurement. This will ensure that you only measure the frame, not the actual window or door. Take these measurements at three different locations and select the largest number to represent the size of the doorway.
If you want to replace the door, take a measure of the door's rough opening. This can be accomplished without removal of the old door by prying it away from the jamb using a wide pry bar. This will expose the framing rough that will be used to hang the new door. The height of the opening should be measured three times, and the smallest number will be the height of the new door.
You can also determine the width of the doorway by using a tape measure to measure the frame in three locations: center, left and right. Note the most extensive measurement to determine the width. This is the best way to ensure that your plywood will cover the entire space and allow you to install a new door or window.
Measure the Frame
boarding up windows service up windows, doors and other openings that let in elements can provide a measureable amount of protection for your home. The first step is to examine each window to determine its size and shape and then take measurements of the length of the frame. Make note of each measurement to ensure that you cut the plywood boards precisely.
Before starting, put on protective gear to protect yourself from broken glass and other hazards. Also, it's best to work with a partner in order to handle large sheets of plywood is much easier with an extra pair of hands.
Use a wide masking tape to seal the cracks and remove any panes that aren't 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 good, you can save some time by running a brand new stud across the gap that is in the middle of the window. This will give the board-up more strength, without the additional effort of taking out and installing the framing itself.
Make sure you have a few sheets plywood as well as some tools, such as the hammer and drill (if you have to cut the sheets). Based on the frame's dimensions and marking each board with its corresponding window number. Attach the plywood to the frame by drilling pilot holes using the holes you previously drilled.
Find the Jambs
The jambs are three pieces of wood that doors are directly mounted to. They are vital to keep the door shut properly. They should be snug and even. If the existing jambs aren't, you'll have to adjust them.
Begin with the side jambs on the hinge. They have a raised part towards the center, referred to as a doorstop. The doorstop is placed on the door slab to stop it from hitting the frame as it closes. Attach a piece or plywood at the bottom of every stud to raise the floor in the rough opening by 1/2 inch. (Photo). This will stop the door from scratching the carpet, tile or throw rug when it is closed and opened.
Remove any trim, molding or casing installed around the jamb of the hinge to obtain an accurate measurement. This will reveal the opening, which will allow you to precisely measure it.
Note the locations of the hinge holes both on the outside and inside of the hinge jamb. Using a combination square, find the mortise depth of the hinge and adjust the combination square so that it is equal to the mark you made on the hinge jamb. This will ensure the hinge will be aligned with the frame and properly aligned with the door. Repeat this process for the latch jamb. After you're done, you can make use of a nail gun to secure the strike side of the door stop with two-and-a-half inches of nail finish.
Take a look at the Header
A header is a thick, dimensional lumber board nailed to the top of wall framing, which transfers loads above doors and windows to studs below. When properly constructed, the King and Jack the studs are attached to the opposite side of the header. They also butt up against the header on both ends to form solid columns that transfer the weight of the opening to the foundation and floor.
The code includes a set of tables that can be used to determine the size of a header in the frame of a typical house. The code includes tables for three different widths of buildings. You can use interpolation to determine the appropriate header size.
There are other more efficient alternatives to the standard 2x12 header that can reduce the need for lumber, decrease thermal bridging and free up space to be used service for boarding up windows insulation. Mike Guertin examines these options and when each is appropriate.
He also discusses rim-board headers that can connect an opening without a header. This removes an additional step in framing process, and can result in stronger frames. He also discusses box headers that are more difficult to build and have greater spans than single-ply. He also explains the fastening schedule for these different headers. This requires 8d common nail spaced every three inches.
Cut the boards
Before boarding up a door, it is important to clean the area thoroughly. To make enough room for work and to prevent damage to your belongings, you must take out all furniture and decorations. Remove the doorknobs and locks and store them in a safe location to be reinstalled later. Clean the door and frame and wipe down surfaces to remove dust dirt and other debris for better adhesion. If needed smooth rough patches to ensure that the boards fit properly and provide effective protection.
Once the doorway is clear, it is time to cut the plywood boards. A circular saw can make straight cuts through wood and easily cut through it, while a Jigsaw is ideal for areas that are curving. It is crucial to wear protective gear during this procedure, including dust masks and safety goggles.
It is important to align the board with the frame and jambs after it is cut to size. To reinforce the board, it's a good idea also to add some vertical pieces to the bottom of your board. Once the board is properly aligned and secured, it is ready to be nailed into the correct position.
The act of boarding up a doorway can help safeguard the property or home from harm and unauthorized entry during a storm, disaster, or other event. It can also be used to protect vacant properties or stop burglaries and thefts until the property is used. Carefully evaluating the situation and the reason of the boarding up can aid in determining the best material selection and the method of installation to get the best results.
Install the Boards
The boards should be secured with heavy-duty screws, rather than nails. The strength of these fasteners can distribute pressure and withstand prying, enhancing the performance of your boarding up commercial property. Weatherstripping or caulk can be used to seal the edges and prevent rain and wind from getting in through gaps. It is a good idea to leave a ventilation gap in order to avoid humid air and stuffy air.
Wearing gloves and goggles is a must when working with power tools. You should also make use of a straightedge and pencil to mark your cutting, because mistakes are more difficult to correct after you're done cutting. You'll have to be as precise as you can when cutting the boards to ensure that they are perfectly positioned against the door casing and frame. The next step is to clean the jambs and head to ensure they're level with the face of the wall.
It is best to do this prior the storm hits so that you have time to secure any other areas that are at risk. A little planning can save you a lot of time and will help you prepare your business or home for a possible disaster. Your property can be protected from wind, criminal activity and flying debris with proper preparation. You'll also have peace of mind knowing that your property is safe.
