The short answer
When a DIY Board-Up Makes Sense
A quick self-installed board-up can be a smart stopgap after a storm or break-in. It gives you immediate protection from rain and wind until you can arrange a permanent solution. This is especially useful if you need to prevent more water from entering your home before professional restoration services can begin. Just remember, a DIY job is a temporary shield, not a final repair.
Gathering the Right Materials
For a secure temporary board-up, you need thick plywood, at least half an inch thick. You also require heavy-duty screws, a drill, and a saw to cut the wood to size. Wear safety gloves and goggles when handling broken glass and cutting materials. Having these items on hand before a storm can help you act quickly to protect your property. Check that your plywood is exterior grade to better resist moisture from rain and humidity.
Steps for Securing the Window
Start by carefully clearing any remaining shards of glass from the frame. Measure the opening accurately and cut your plywood to overlap the frame by at least a few inches on all sides. Secure the board from the outside, drilling screws directly into the solid wooden window frame or the wall studs around it. A tight fit is crucial to keep out water and drafts. Take extra care to ensure the plywood lies flat against the exterior wall surface for a proper seal.
- Remove all broken glass carefully from the frame.
- Measure the window opening and cut plywood to cover it completely.
- Place the plywood over the opening from the outside.
- Drill screws through the plywood into the window frame or surrounding studs.
- Space screws every 8 to 12 inches around the perimeter for a tight seal.
- Cover any small gaps with waterproof tape or caulk from the inside.
Limitations of a Temporary Board-Up
A DIY board-up often fails to provide a perfect seal, allowing moisture to seep in behind the wood. This trapped moisture can lead to hidden mold growth and wood rot within your walls. The board itself also offers limited security against a determined intruder. For these reasons, a professional repair or replacement is necessary for long-term safety and to prevent secondary damage. Even a small gap can let in significant water during a heavy downpour, worsening the initial problem.
Why Professionals Are the Better Choice
Local water damage pros provide a complete solution that addresses both the window and any moisture that entered your home. They have the tools to thoroughly dry the area, which is critical to stop mold. Their installation is secure and designed to last, protecting your home from the elements until a new window can be installed. This comprehensive approach safeguards your home's structure and your family's health. They also identify any related issues, like damp insulation or framing, that a temporary cover cannot address.
- Pros assess the full extent of structural and water damage.
- They use commercial-grade materials and secure mounting techniques.
- Proper sealing prevents moisture intrusion and future mold issues.
- They ensure the repair meets local building codes for safety.
- A professional job restores security and weatherproofing reliably.
- They can coordinate with other needed repairs, like drywall or flooring.
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Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
What if water got in before I could board it up?
Water inside the walls needs immediate attention to prevent mold. Contact local water damage pros for inspection and drying. They use moisture mapping and industrial dehumidifiers to find and remove hidden moisture that a DIY cleanup might miss.
Will my homeowner's insurance cover window boarding?
Coverage depends on the cause of damage, like a storm or vandalism. You should file a claim and document the damage with photos. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
How long can I leave a boarded-up window?
Treat it as a very short-term fix, for days or a couple of weeks at most. Prolonged use risks moisture damage and is not secure. Plan for a permanent window replacement as soon as possible.