Boarding Up A Doorway The Process Isn't As Hard As You Think
Boarding Up a Doorway
By boarding an entranceway, you can prevent further damage to your home from the effects of hail, snow, or rain. It also keeps scavengers and vandals from the area.
Doors are more secure than windows, however they can still be broken or kicked into. They should be set with composite frame that won't warp over time.
Measure the Doorway
A doorway is a hole in a wall through which you can enter or exit an area, building or the passageway. A doorway can also be a portal which allows access to another place, such as another room in the home or another part of the country.
You'll need to determine the size of the doorway. With a tape measure, begin by measuring the width of the frame's interior from one end to the other. It is essential to remove any trim or brickmould before taking this measurement. This will ensure that you only measure the frame, not the actual window or door. Take these measurements in three places and use the largest number as the dimensions of the doorway.
Make a rough estimate of the opening of the current door if you plan to replace it. This can be done without removing the door by prying the old door away from the jamb using a wide pry tool. This will expose the framing rough that will be used to hang the new door. The opening's height in three places, and use the smallest number to determine the height of the new door.
You can also determine the width of your doorway by running a tape measure along the frame in three locations: center, left and right. Take the measurement with the highest value to determine the width. This is the best way to ensure that the plywood will cover the entire surface and permit you to put in an entirely new door or window.
Measure the Frame
The act of boarding up windows, doors and other openings that allow in the elements can offer a substantial amount of protection for your home. The first step is to examine each window to determine its size and shape and then measure the width of the frame. Make note of each measurement so that you can cut the boards of plywood accurately.
Before you begin, put on protective gear to guard against broken glass and other dangers. Also, it's best to work with a friend in order to handle large sheets of plywood is easier with an extra set of hands.
Use wide masking tape to tape the cracks and then remove any panes that are not taped. Make sure to protect the remaining panes with heavy plastic trash bags. Seal the trash bags from the inside to increase their strength.
If the frame is good it is possible to save time by running a new stud across the gap that is in the middle of the window. This will give your board extra strength without having to take off and replace the framing.
Purchase a few sheets of plywood and tools, such as a hammer, drill and saw (if cutting is required). In accordance with the frame's measurements make sure that each board is marked with the window number that corresponds to it. Then, using the pilot holes you made earlier, attach the plywood to the frame.
Take a look at the Jambs
The jambs are three pieces of wood that doors are directly hung. They are crucial for keeping the door shut properly. They must be secure and even. You'll need to adjust the jambs if they aren't level.
Begin with the side jambs on the hinge. They have a raised portion toward the center, called a doorstop. The doorstop is placed against the slab of the door and prevents it from hitting the frame when it closes. Install a plywood strip to the bottom of each stud so that it raises the floor inside the rough opening by about 1/2 inch (photo). This will prevent the door from scratching against the tile or carpet as it's shut and opened.
Remove any trim, molding, or casing around the hinge side jamb to obtain an accurate measurement. This will reveal the opening, which will allow you to precisely measure it.
After you've finished measuring, mark the locations of the hinge holes on both sides of the hinge jamb. Utilizing a combination-square, determine the depth of the hinge mortise. Then adjust the square to match the mark on the jamb of the hinge. This will ensure the hinge is placed in the frame at a proper angle and aligned properly with the door. Repeat this process for the latch jamb. Make use of a nail gun and 2-1/2-inch finishing screws to secure the strike side.
Take a look at the Header
A header is a large dimensional lumber board that is attached on top of the wall framing. It transfers loads above the door and window openings to the studs below. When properly frame, the king and jack studs are nailed on each side of the header. They also butt up against the header at both ends to form a strong column that transfers the weight from the opening to the foundation and floor.
In traditional framed houses you can make use of tables in the code to determine the size of a header for a given span. A typical header is a double 2x12 and the code includes tables for three widths of a building; you can interpolate for the next larger size to determine the proper header size.
There are more efficient alternatives than the standard 2x12 header. These can save lumber, cut down on thermal bridges and permit more space to be used to create insulation. Mike Guertin examines these options and when each is appropriate.
He also discusses Rim-board headers, which are able to bridge an opening in the wall without using the use of a header. This eliminates a step in the framing process and usually creates stronger frames. He also discusses box headers that are more difficult to build and have greater spans than single-ply. He also explains a fastening schedule for these alternative headers, which calls for 8d common nails spaced every 3 inches.
Cut the Boards
Before the process of boarding a door, it is important to prepare the space thoroughly. To create enough space to work in and to avoid damage to your possessions, take down all furniture and decorations. Remove emergency boarding up services , locks and other hardware and store them in a safe place for later installation. Clean the door and frame and wipe down the surfaces to get rid of dust dirt, debris, and dust to ensure better adhesion. If needed, sand rough patches to ensure that the boards fit properly and offer effective protection.
Once the doorway is cleared after which it is time to cut the plywood boards. A good circular saw will make straight cuts and cut through wood with ease and a jigsaw is able to handle curved areas. It is important to wear protective equipment during this step, including a dust mask and safety goggles.
It is crucial to align the board with the frame and jambs when it has been cut to size. It is also recommended to add a few vertical pieces of lumber to the bottom of the board for reinforcement. Once the board is properly aligned and secured, it is ready to be put into the desired position.
A doorway that is boarded up can help safeguard the property or home from damage and unauthorized entry during a disaster, storm or other occurrence. It can also be used to secure a vacant property or prevent break-ins and theft until the property is reoccupied. The best results can be achieved by assessing the situation, the purpose and the type of the boarding.
Install the Boards
The boards should be fastened using screws that are heavy-duty instead of nails. The strength of these fasteners will help distribute pressure and withstand cutting, increasing the efficiency of your board. Sealing the edges using caulk or weatherstripping can stop water and wind from leaking through the gaps. It's also an excellent idea to leave a gap for ventilation to prevent stuffy air and moisture buildup.
Wearing gloves and goggles is essential when working with a power tool. Mark your cuts with a pencil and a straightedge because mistakes are more difficult to fix after you've finished cutting. You'll need to make the cut as accurate as possible to ensure that the boards sit perfectly against the door casing and frame. You'll need to then skim the head and jambs to ensure they're level with the face of the wall.
It is best to prepare your home prior to the storm's arrival to ensure you have plenty of time to cover other areas that are vulnerable. You can save lots of time and effort by planning ahead. If you are prepared your property will be protected from criminal activity and damage caused by flying debris and wind. You will also have peace of mind knowing that your property is safe.