Watch Out: How Boarding Up A Doorway Is Taking Over And What Can We Do About It
Boarding Up a Doorway
The act of boarding up a doorway stops hail, snow, and rain from further causing damage to the property. It also keeps scavengers and vandals out.
Doors are more secure than Windows, but can still be damaged or kicked. They should be set up with composite door frames that won't shift over time.
Find the Doorway
A doorway is an opening in a wall, through which you can enter or exit a room, building, or passageway. The doorway could also function as a portal that provides access to another area, such as an entirely different room in the same house or other part of the country.
To determine how big the doorway is, you'll have to take measurements. Start by measuring the width of one side of the frame to the other with a tape measure. Before you take this measurement, it is important to remove any brickmould or trim pieces. This will ensure that you only measure the frame, not the actual window or door. Make these measurements in three locations and choose the largest number as the size of the doorway.
Take a rough measurement of the opening of the existing door if you plan to replace it. It is possible to do this without removing the old door by removing the old one away from the jamb using a wide pry tool. This will reveal the framing which will be used to hang the new door. The height of the opening should be measured three times over and the smallest number will be the height of the new door.
You can also determine the width of your doorway by using a tape measure to measure the frame at three different locations: center, left and right. Note the most extensive measurement 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 a new door or window.
Measure the Frame
Boarding up windows, doors and other openings that allow in the elements can provide a measureable amount of protection for your home. First, carefully inspect each window to determine its dimensions and shape. Next, measure the width of its frame. Make note of each measurement to ensure that you cut the plywood boards accurately.
Before you begin, put on protective gear to guard against broken glass and other hazards. Also, it is recommended to work with a partner, as handling large sheets of plywood is much more efficient with a second set of hands.
Use wide masking tape to tape the cracks and remove any panes that are not taped. Then play it safe and cover those that are left with heavy plastic trash bags. You can also seal the trash bags inside out for extra strength.
If the frame is still good and sturdy, you can cut down on time by running a brand new stud through the gap in the middle of the window. This will give your board-up extra strength without having to remove and install the framing.
Acquire a few plywood sheets, and tools like drill, hammer and saw (if cutting is required). Referring to the frame measurements and marking each board with the window number. Then using the pilot holes you drilled earlier, attach the plywood to the frame.
Find the Jambs
The jambs are the three pieces of wood that a door is directly mounted to. They are vital to keep a door shut properly. They should be snug and even. If the jambs in place aren't, you'll need to adjust them.
Begin with the side jambs on the hinge. They have a raised section towards the center, referred to as a doorstop. The doorstop rests on the slab of the door to keep it from hitting the frame as it closes. Screw a strip of plywood to the bottom of each stud so that it raises the floor inside the opening in about 1/2 inch (photo). This will prevent the door from scraping against the tile, carpet or throw rug when it is shut and opened.
To get an accurate measurement for the hinge side jamb, you must remove any trim or molding attached to it. This will expose the rough opening so you can accurately measure it.
After you've measured your measurements, mark the location of the hinge holes on both sides of the hinge jamb. With a combination-square, measure the depth of the hinge mortise. Then adjust the square to match the mark on the hinge jamb. This will ensure the hinge is aligned with the frame and properly aligned with the door. Repeat the process for the latch jamb. Make use of a nail gun and finishing screws of 2 1/2 inches to secure the strike side.
Measure the Header
A header is a large dimension lumber board that is attached to the wall framing. It carries loads above window and doors openings to the studs below. When properly framed, the jack and king studs are secured to the opposite side of the header. They also butt up against the header on both ends to form an extremely sturdy column that carries the weight from the opening to the floor and foundation.
In traditional framed houses it is possible to use a set of tables in the code to calculate the size of the header for a specific span. A typical header is a double 2x12, and the code provides tables for three widths of a building that you can then interpolate to the next size to determine the correct size for the header.
However, there are other better, more efficient alternatives to the standard 2x12 header, which can save lumber, reduce the risk of thermal bridging and create space for insulation. Builder Mike Guertin takes a look at these options and when they're appropriate:
He also talks about rim-board headers that can connect an opening in the wall without using a header; this removes one step from the framing process and often creates a stronger frame. He also discusses box headers which are more difficult to construct but provide greater spans than single-ply headers. He also explains the schedule for fastening these alternative headers, which calls for common nails of 8d spacing every 3 inches.
Cut the boards
It is important to prepare the area thoroughly before the process of boarding up a front door. To allow enough space for work and prevent damage to your belongings, you must take out all furniture and décor. Take out the doorknobs, locks and other hardware and put them in a secure location for later installation. To improve adhesion, clean the frame and door and clean the entire surface to remove dust and dirt. If necessary smooth rough patches to ensure that the boards fit securely and provide effective protection.
Once the doorway is cleared, it is time to cut the plywood boards. A circular saw can cut straight lines through wood and easily cut through it, whereas a Jigsaw is ideal for areas that are curving. Wearing protective gear, such as safety goggles as well as a dust mask is essential in this process.
When the board has been cut to size, it is essential to verify its alignment with the frame and jambs. To reinforce the board, it's a good idea also to add some vertical pieces to the bottom of your board. After the board is properly aligned and secured, it is now ready to be nailed into the desired position.
Boarding up a doorway can help protect a home or business from damage and unauthorized entry in the event of a storm, disaster, or other event. It can be used to protect vacant homes or stop burglaries and thefts until the property is reoccupied. A thorough assessment of the situation and the reason of the boarding up can aid in determining the best material selection and the method of installation for the best results.
Install the Boards
Instead of using nails Instead, use strong screws to fix the boards. RepairMyWindowsAndDoors of these fasteners will distribute pressure and withstand prying, enhancing the effectiveness of your boarding. Sealing the edges with caulk or weatherstripping is a way to stop rain and wind from getting through gaps. It's also an excellent idea to leave a space for ventilation to prevent stuffy air and moisture accumulation.
Wearing gloves and goggles is essential when working with a power tool. You should also employ a straightedge or pencil to mark your cuts, since mistakes will be more difficult to correct after you're done cutting. You'll need to be as precise as possible when cutting the boards to ensure they're perfectly fitted against the door casing and frame. The next step is to clean the head and jambs so that they are even with the wall's face. wall.
It is recommended to do this prior to a storm so you have time to secure any other areas that are vulnerable. A little planning can save you a lot of time and help you prepare your home or business for a possible disaster. With the right preparation, your property can be safe from criminal activity and damage from flying debris and winds. You'll also have peace of mind knowing your home is secure.