Boarding Up A Doorway It's Not As Hard As You Think
Boarding Up a Doorway
A doorway that is boarded up prevents 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, yet they are still susceptible to being damaged or kicked out. They need to be paired with sturdy door frames constructed of composite materials which won't change shape over time.
Measure the Doorway
A doorway is a hole in a wall that you can enter or exit an area, building or the passageway. It can also be a portal that provides access to another location like an entirely different room in the same home or different area of the country.
You'll have to measure the doorway. Begin by measuring the width of one side of the frame to the other with a tape measure. It is important to remove any brickmould or trim pieces prior to taking this measurement. This will ensure that you are only measuring the frame, not the actual windows or doors. Take these measurements in three places and use the largest number as the dimensions of the doorway.
If you're looking to replace your door, you should take a measurement of the door's opening. This can be accomplished without taking the old door off by removing it from the jamb using an extended pry bar. This will expose the rough framing that will be used to frame the new door. The height of the opening in three places and use the smallest number to determine the height of the new door.
You can also determine how wide the doorway is by running a tape measure along the frame at three different locations: center, left and right. Record the largest measurement to determine the width. This is the best way to ensure that your wood will cover the entire space and allow you to install a new door or window.
Measure the Frame
You can add a sense of security for your home by boarding up windows, doors and other openings that let in the elements. The first step is to examine each window to determine its size and shape and then take measurements of the width of the frame. Note every measurement so that you can cut the plywood boards precisely.
Before you begin, put on protective gear to guard against broken glass and other hazards. It is also recommended to work with someone else, as it is easier to handle large plywood sheets with a second pair hands.
Use a wide masking tape to seal the cracks and remove any panes that aren't taped. Then play it safe and cover the ones left with heavy plastic trash bags. Seal boarding up company near me from the inside out to increase their strength.
If the frame is still good it is possible to save time by running a brand new stud across the gap in the middle of the window. This will give your board-up more strength without having to remove and install the framing.
Take a few sheets of plywood and some tools such as a hammer and drill (if you have to cut the sheets). Mark each board according to the frame's dimensions. Attach the plywood to the frame using the pilot holes that you made earlier.
Measure the Jambs
The jambs are the three pieces of wood on which the door is directly mounted. They are essential to keep the door shut properly and should be snug and level. If the jambs you have aren't, you'll need to make adjustments.
Start with the side jambs of the hinge, which have a raised part toward the center that's called the doorstop. The doorstop sits on the slab of the door and prevents it from hitting the frame when it closes. Attach a piece of plywood to the bottom of each stud so that it raises the floor within the opening in about 1/2 inch (photo). This will keep the door from scratching the tile, carpet or throw rug when it is closed and opened.
To get a precise measurement for the hinge side jamb, take off any trim or molding installed around it. This will reveal the opening in rough form so that you can measure it accurately.
Mark the location of the hinge holes on the inside and outside 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 is centered in the frame and aligned with your door. Repeat the procedure on the latch jamb side of the door. Utilize a nail gun as well as 2-1/2-inch finishing 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, transferring loads above doors and windows to studs below. When properly frame the king and jack the studs are attached to each end of the header. They also butt up against the header at both ends to form a strong column that transfers the weight of the opening to the floor and foundation.
The code includes a set of tables that can be used to determine the size of a header in an ordinary frame house. The code has tables for three different widths of buildings. Interpolation can be used to determine the proper header size.
But there are other more efficient alternatives to the standard 2x12 header, which can save lumber, cut down on thermal bridging, and free up space to be used for insulation. Builder Mike Guertin takes a look at these options and decides if they're the right choice:
He also discusses Rim-board headers, which are able to connect an opening in the wall without using a header; this removes one step from the framing process, and usually creates an even stronger frame. And he discusses box headers that are more difficult to construct but provide greater spans than single-ply headers. He also explains the fastening schedule for these other headers. This requires 8d common nail spaced every three inches.
Cut the boards
It is important to thoroughly prepare the area prior to the process of boarding up the front door. To create enough space to work and prevent damage to your possessions, take down all furniture and decor. Detach the doorknobs and locks and store them in a safe place for later reinstallation. Clean the frame and door and wipe down the surfaces to remove dust, dirt, and debris to ensure better adhesion. Sand rough patches as needed to ensure that the boards are fitted securely and provide adequate protection.
Once the doorway is cleared after which it is time to start cutting the plywood boards. A circular saw can make straight cuts through wood and cut easily through it, while a Jigsaw is more suitable for curved areas. Wearing protective gear like safety goggles and a dust mask is crucial during this step.
It is crucial to align the board with the frame and jambs when it is cut to 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 properly aligned and secured it is ready to be put into the desired position.
A doorway board can protect a business or home from damage or unauthorized entry in the event of a disaster or storm. It can also be used to secure vacant properties or to prevent burglaries and thefts until the property is used. Carefully evaluating the circumstances and the need of the boarding up will aid in determining the best material choice and method of installation for the best results.
Install the Boards
Instead of nailing the boards instead, use screws that are strong enough to secure the boards. These fasteners are durable and will resist prying. This improves the effectiveness of your board. Sealing the edges with caulk or weatherstripping is a way to stop water and wind from leaking through the gaps. It's also a good idea to leave a ventilation space to prevent humid air and stuffy air.
Wearing gloves and goggles is essential when using a power tool. Also, you should make use of a straightedge and pencil to mark your cuts, because mistakes are more difficult to correct once you've finished cutting. You'll need to be as precise as you can when cutting the boards so they're perfectly fitted against the door casing and frame. The jambs and head will need to be trimmed to make sure they're level with the wall.
It is best to do this before the storm strikes so that you will have plenty of time to cover other areas that are vulnerable. A little planning can save you a lot of time and will help you prepare your home or business for a possible catastrophe. Your property can be secured from wind, criminal activity and flying debris with proper preparation. It also gives you peace of mind knowing that your property is protected from damage.