10 Things We We Hate About Boarding Up A Doorway
Boarding Up a Doorway
Boarding up a doorway keeps rain, snow and hail from further destroying the property. It also keeps scavengers, vandals and squatters away.
Doors are more secure than windows, but can still be damaged or kicked. These doors should be set with composite frames that won't shift over time.
Measure the Doorway
A doorway is an opening in a wall that you can go in or out of the building, room or passage. The doorway could also function as an access point to a different location, such as a different room in the same house or a different area of the country.
To determine how large a doorway is, it's necessary to measure it. Start by measuring the width from one side of the frame to the opposite side using a tape measure. Before taking this measurement, it is crucial to remove any brickmould or trim pieces. This will allow you to measure the frame, and not the actual window or door. Make these measurements at three different locations and use the largest number as the dimensions of the doorway.
If you want to replace the existing door, take a measure of the door's rough opening. This can be accomplished without removal of the old door by removing it from the jamb with an extended pry bar. This will reveal the rough framing which will be used to frame the new door. The height of the rough opening in three places and use the smallest of the numbers as the height of the new door.
You can also determine the width of the doorway by running the tape measure along the edge of the frame in three places such as left, center, and right. Record the most extensive measurement as the width of the doorway. This is the best way to ensure your frame will cover the entire area, and also allow you to put in windows or doors that are new.
Measure the Frame
You can add measurable protection for your home by boarding windows, doors and other openings that let in the elements. First, carefully examine each window to determine its dimensions and shape. Next, measure the width of its frame. Make a note of each measurement, so you can accurately cut the boards to fit.
Before you start, wear protective gear to protect yourself from broken glass and other hazards. Also, it is recommended to work with a partner, as handling large plywood sheets is more efficient with a second pair of hands.
Use wide masking tape to seal the cracks and then take out any panes that can't be taped. Cover the remaining panes with heavy plastic garbage bags. You can even cover the trash bags inside out for extra strength.
If the frame is still in good condition it is possible to save time by avoiding the framing process and instead running an additional stud straight across the gap in the middle of the window. This will give the board-up more strength, without the additional effort of taking out and installing the framing itself.
Make sure you have a few sheets plywood as well as some tools like a hammer and drill (if you're required to cut the sheets). Mark each board according to the frame dimensions. Then using the pilot holes you drilled earlier, attach the plywood to the frame.
Take a look at the Jambs
The jambs are three pieces wood on which a door is mounted directly. They're essential in keeping the door shut properly and should be snug and level. If the existing jambs aren't, you'll need to adjust them.
Start with the side jambs on the hinge. They have a raised part towards the center, called a doorstop. The doorstop is placed against the slab of the door, and helps keep it from hitting the frame when it closes. Screw a piece of plywood to the bottom of every stud to raise the floor in the rough opening by about 1/2 inch. (Photo). This will prevent the door from scratching against the tile or carpet as it's opened and shut.
To determine the exact measurement of the hinge's side jamb, you must remove any trim or molding placed around it. This will expose the opening to allow you can measure it accurately.
After you've finished measuring 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 that the hinge is centered in the frame and correctly aligned to your door. Repeat the process on the jamb side of the door. Make use of a nail gun and finishing screws of 2 1/2 inches to secure the strike side.
Find the Header
A header is a heavy dimensional lumber board that is nailed on top of the wall framing. emergency boarding up carries loads above window and doors openings to the studs below. When properly framed the king studs attached to the opposite end of the header and the jack studs butting against it on both ends create a sturdy support column that can transfer weight from above the opening to the floor and foundation.
The code provides a series tables that can be used to determine the size of a head in an ordinary frame house. The code has tables for three different building widths. You can use interpolation to determine the correct size of the header.
There are more efficient alternatives than the standard 2x12 header. They can help save lumber, reduce thermal bridges, and allow more space to be used to create insulation. Builder Mike Guertin takes a look at these options and decides if they're the right choice:
He also talks about Rim-board headers, which can bridge an opening without the need of the use of a header. This removes an element in framing process and usually results in stronger frames. And he discusses box headers which are more difficult to construct but provide greater spans than single-ply headers. He also covers the fastening schedule for these different headers, which calls for common nails of 8d spacing every 3 inches.
Cut the boards
It is essential to prepare the area thoroughly before making a boarding plan for an entranceway. To create enough space to work and prevent damage to your belongings, remove all furniture and decor. Take out the doorknobs, locks and other hardware and store them in a secure place to be installed later. To increase adhesion, clean the frame and door and then wipe down the entire surface to remove dust and dirt. Sand rough patches if necessary to ensure that the boards fit securely and provide adequate protection.
After the doorway has been cleared, you can begin cutting the plywood. A good circular saw can make straight cuts and cut through wood easily 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 essential to align the board with the frame and jambs once it has been cut to the appropriate size. For reinforcement, it is an excellent idea to add a few vertical pieces to the bottom of the board. After the board has been properly aligned and secured it is ready to be put into the correct position.
Boarding up a doorway can help protect your home or business from harm and unauthorized entry in the event of a storm, disaster or other event. It can also be used to secure a vacant property or prevent break-ins and theft until the property is occupied. The most effective results can be obtained by assessing the situation and the need, as well as the type of the boarding.
Install the Boards
Instead of nailing, use heavy-duty screws to fix the boards. These fasteners are strong and resist tearing. This will increase the effectiveness of your board. Weatherstripping or caulk is used to close the edges and prevent water and wind from infiltrating through gaps. It's also recommended to leave a space for ventilation to avoid stuffy air and moisture accumulation.
If you're using a power drill, make sure you wear gloves and goggles to ensure safety. Mark your cuts using an eraser and a straightedge since mistakes are harder to correct after you've finished cutting. You'll have to be as precise as you can when cutting the boards to ensure that they are perfectly positioned against the door casing and frame. You'll then need to skim the head and jambs to ensure that they're even with the surface of the wall.
It is best to do this prior an event to allow time to board up any other areas that are vulnerable. A little planning can save you time and will help you prepare your business or home for a possible disaster. With the proper preparation your home or business will be safe from criminal activity and damage from flying debris and winds. It also gives you peace of mind knowing your property is safe from harm.