If you live in an area that gets hit by hurricanes, boarding up your windows is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent damage to your home.
This is considered the best method for boarding windows. Because the plywood cover fits snugly inside the window frame, wind is less likely to get underneath it and pull it away. It is only suitable for windows that have at least a 2” inset.
1. Measure the window. 2. Cut plywood so it fits the window exactly. 3. Fasten 3-inch or 4-inch heavy- duty barrel bolts onto the panel. They should be fastened with #8 bolts (not screws!) and washers. Use one barrel bolt per each one to two feet. A small window will only need four bolts (one on each side or two on each side).
4. Place the panel against the window. Mark where the barrel bolts meet the wall. 5. Remove the panel and drill holes for the barrel bolts.
This method isn’t as good as the bold method but may be the only DIY hurricane cover option for windows that aren’t recessed.
1. Measure your windows: Include the window frame in the measurements, but do not include the trim. 2. Cut plywood to fit windows: Add 8 inches to the width and height measurements. If your windows have a sill that protrudes outwards, only add 4 inches to the height. This is because the plywood will sit on top of the sill.
3. Prepare the covers For wood homes: Draw a line two inches from the edges of the cover. For vinyl siding homes: Draw a line 3 ¼ inches from the edges of the cover.