Boarding up a broken window involves protecting yourself, clearing the area, measuring the window, cutting the plywood, and securing it in place to prevent further damage and weather exposure. Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Safety First
- Wear protective gear: Safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask are essential. You'll be handling broken glass and potentially dusty or splintered wood.
- Clear the Area: Remove any furniture or other objects near the window to prevent damage and provide ample workspace.
2. Assess and Clean the Broken Glass
- Inspect the Damage: Determine the extent of the damage to the window and the surrounding frame. Look for any loose shards of glass.
- Remove Loose Glass: Carefully pick up any large, loose pieces of glass and dispose of them properly. Use thick gloves and a sturdy container to avoid injury. A wet/dry vacuum can be helpful for smaller fragments.
- Tape Remaining Glass (Optional): If there are many small shards still in the frame, apply duct tape or packing tape across the remaining glass to hold it in place and prevent it from falling.
3. Measure the Window
- Measure the Opening: Carefully measure the height and width of the window opening. Measure inside the frame if you want the plywood to sit flush inside. Measure outside the frame if you want the plywood to overlap the frame.
- Add Overlap (If Applicable): If you want the plywood to overlap the frame (which provides a more secure and weatherproof seal), add a few inches to both the height and width measurements. Generally, 2-4 inches of overlap on each side is sufficient.
4. Cut the Plywood
- Choose Plywood: Use exterior-grade plywood that is at least 1/2 inch thick. Thicker plywood (3/4 inch) is recommended for larger windows or areas prone to strong winds.
- Cut to Size: Using a circular saw or jigsaw, carefully cut the plywood to the dimensions you measured. Ensure a straight and accurate cut.
5. Prepare for Mounting
- Pre-Drill Holes: Pre-drill holes through the plywood, near the edges and corners, about every 12 inches. This will make it easier to screw the plywood into the window frame and prevent the wood from splitting.
- Consider Caulking: Applying a bead of caulk around the window frame before attaching the plywood can create a more weatherproof seal.
6. Secure the Plywood
- Position the Plywood: Carefully position the plywood over the window opening, ensuring it is centered and aligned.
- Attach with Screws: Use wood screws (at least 1 1/2 inches long) to attach the plywood to the window frame. Screw through the pre-drilled holes. Ensure the screws are securely fastened, but avoid over-tightening, which can strip the wood.
- Inspect: After securing the plywood, inspect the edges to ensure there are no gaps or openings. Add additional screws as needed.
Materials Needed:
- Plywood (exterior grade, at least 1/2 inch thick)
- Safety Glasses
- Gloves
- Dust Mask
- Measuring Tape
- Circular Saw or Jigsaw
- Drill
- Wood Screws (at least 1 1/2 inches long)
- Duct Tape or Packing Tape (optional)
- Caulk and Caulk Gun (optional)
- Wet/Dry Vacuum (optional)
By following these steps, you can effectively board up a broken window to protect your property from the elements and prevent further damage. Remember to address the underlying cause of the broken window and arrange for professional repair or replacement as soon as possible.
