Boarding Up a Doorway

Boarding up a doorway keeps hail, snow, and rain from further causing damage to the property. It also keeps scavengers as well as vandals out.

Doors are more secure than Windows, but can still be damaged or kicked. They should be secured with strong door frames composed of composite material that won't warp over time.

Find the Doorway

A doorway is an opening in a wall, through which you can go in or out of the building, room, or the passageway. The doorway can also be a portal that provides access to a different location, such as an entirely different room in the same home or different part of the country.

To determine how big a doorway is, it's necessary to measure the doorway. Using a tape measure, start by measuring the width of the frame's interior from one side to the other. It is essential to remove any brickmould or trim pieces before taking this measurement. This will allow you to measure the frame, not the actual window or door. Measure these measurements in three places and use the largest number as the size of the doorway.

If you are looking to replace your door, measure the width of the door's rough opening. This can be accomplished by removing the old door by removing it from the jamb using a large pry bar. This will reveal the rough framing that will be used to mount 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 measure how wide the doorway is by running a tape measure along the frame in three different 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 surface and allow you to build a new door or window.

Measure the Frame

You can add measurable protection to your home by boarding up company up windows, doors and other openings that allow in the elements. Begin by carefully examining each window to determine its dimensions and shape. Next, measure the width of its frame. Make note of each measurement so that you can cut the boards of plywood accurately.

Wear protective gear before you begin to safeguard yourself from glass breakage and other dangers. It is also recommended to work with a colleague because handling large plywood sheets is easier with an extra pair of hands.

Use wide masking tape to tape the cracks and then remove any panes that cannot be taped. Be safe and cover the ones left with heavy plastic trash bags. You can even wrap the trash bags in out for extra strength.

If the frame is good, you can save some time by running a brand new stud through the gap in the middle of the window. This will give the board additional strength without requiring the additional effort of removing and reinstalling the framing.

Purchase a few sheets of plywood and tools such as drill, hammer and saw (if cutting is required). Based on the frame's dimensions, mark each board with its corresponding window number. Attach the plywood to the frame by drilling pilot holes using the holes you previously drilled.

Take a look at the Jambs

The jambs are three pieces of wood that doors are directly mounted to. They are vital to keep a door shut properly. They should be tight and even. If the jambs in place aren't, you'll have to make adjustments.

Begin with the hinge side jambs. They have a raised portion toward the center, which is known as a doorstop. The doorstop sits on the slab of the door to keep it from hitting the frame as it closes. Screw a piece of plywood on the bottom of every stud to raise the floor in the opening by about 1/2 inch. (Photo). This will prevent the door from scratching the carpet, tile or throw rug when it is shut and opened.

To get an accurate measurement of the hinge's side jamb, you must remove any trim or molding placed around it. This will reveal the opening to allow you can accurately measure it.

Mark the location of the hinge holes both on the outside and inside of the hinge jamb. With a combination-square measure the depth of the hinge mortise. Then adjust the square to match the marks on the hinge jamb. This will ensure that the hinge will be placed in the frame at a proper angle and is properly aligned with the door. Repeat the process for the latch jamb side the door. Make use of a nail gun and 2-1/2-inch screws to secure the strike side.

Take a look at the Header

A header is a thick wood board with dimensional dimensions that is attached to the wall's top framing, and transferring loads over window and door 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 ends make a strong support column that can transfer weight from above the opening to the floor and foundation.

The code provides a series tables that can be used to determine the size of a header within an ordinary frame house boarding up service. A typical header is a double 2x12 and the code has tables for three building widths; you can interpolate for the next larger size to determine the proper header size.

There are other better, more efficient alternatives to the standard 2x12 header that can save lumber, reduce thermal bridging and free up space to be used for insulation. Builder Mike Guertin takes a look at these options and when they're suitable:

He also talks about Rim-board headers, which can bridge an opening without the need of a header. This removes a step in the framing process and usually results in stronger frames. He also discusses box headers, which are more difficult to build however, they offer larger spans than single-ply. He also discusses the fastening schedule for these alternative headers, which calls for 8d common nails spaced every 3 inches.

Cut the Boards

It is essential to thoroughly prepare the area prior to boarding up the front door. To allow enough space for work and prevent damage to your belongings, you must take out all furniture and decorations. Take out the doorknobs, locks, and other hardware and store them in a secure location for later installation. To ensure better adhesion, wash the door and frame, and wipe down the entire surface to remove dust and dirt. If necessary you need to sand rough areas to ensure that the boards fit properly and provide adequate protection.

Once the doorway is clear, it is time to start cutting the plywood boards. A quality circular saw will make straight cuts and cut through wood easily and a jigsaw is able to tackle the curved surfaces. It is crucial to wear protective equipment during this step, including a dust mask as well as safety goggles.

It is important to align the board with the frame and jambs after it has been cut to the appropriate size. To strengthen the board, it's an excellent idea to add some vertical pieces to the bottom of your board. After the board has been aligned and secured it is now ready to be put in place.

A doorway board can protect the home or business from damage or unauthorized entry in the event of a storm or disaster. It can also be used to secure a vacant property or prevent break-ins and theft until the property is reoccupied. Thoroughly assessing the circumstances and the need of the boarding up houses up A door (www.Annunciogratis.net) up will aid in determining the best material choice and method of installation to achieve the best results.

Install the Boards

The boards should be fastened with screws of high-quality, rather than nails. These fasteners are sturdy and resist the pull of prying. This will increase the effectiveness of your board. The sealing of the edges with caulk or weatherstripping can stop the wind and water from flowing through the gaps. It's also an excellent idea to leave a space for ventilation to prevent stuffy air and moisture accumulation.

Wearing gloves and goggles is essential when working with a power tool. Also, you should make use of a straightedge and pencil to mark your cuts as mistakes can be difficult to fix once you've completed cutting. You'll want to make your cut as precise as you can to ensure that the boards sit perfectly against the frame and door casing. The jambs and the head must be cut to ensure they're level with the wall.

It's best to do this before the storm hits to ensure you have plenty of time to board up other areas that are at risk. A little planning can save you time and will help you prepare your home or business for an impending catastrophe. If you are prepared, your property can be protected from criminal activity and damage from flying debris and wind. You will also have peace of mind knowing that your property is safe.