Board Up (en Español)

Board Up

Although it is recommended to install tested and code approved impact resistant devices to your doors and windows along the Treasure Coast, Port St. Lucie, Palm City, Stuart, and Palm Beach areas, in the case of an emergency there are two types of shutters that you can install yourself. The first is a pre manufactured shutter, in which you would need to make sure it is project tested and code approved for your area. The second type of shutter a homeowner can install is a temporary plywood shutter. Plywood is inexpensive and readily available. 5/8 inch thick, exterior grade (CDX) plywood is what is recommended among insurance industry groups. These sheets of plywood can easily turn into sails so you need to make sure to get them up before the wind picks up.  

We are going to discuss how to cut and measure plywood so in the event of an emergency you and your family are prepared.

Step 1: Plan your Project

All windows and doors, including sliding glass doors, French doors and even skylights, need to be counted and measured.

Horizontally and vertically measure each opening inside the exterior trim from the sill to the bottom of the top trim.

You will need to provide a four-inch overlap on all sides of windows and doors by adding eight inches to both the height and width. Only add four inches, instead of eight, to windows with extended sills, they will need to be measured from the top of the sill to the top of the window.

A standard sheet of exterior grade (CDX) plywood measures 4 feet by 8 feet, this will help you determine how many sheets you will need to buy.

Step 2: Gather all Hardware and Tools

You will need:

Tools

• Circular Saw
• Drill and Drill Bits
• Hammer and Wrench
• Work Gloves
• Safety Goggles

Hardware

• Bolts
• Wood or Masonry Anchors
• Nuts
• Large Washers

Lag screws and plastic coated permanent anchors will need to be used on Wood Homes

Expansion bolts and galvanized permanent expansion anchors will need to be used on Masonry Homes

Step 3: Let’s Get Started!!!

Assembling and attaching the plywood will be a lot easier if you have someone help you.

Drill holes in the same diameter as the bolts or screws, 2 inches in from the edges of the plywood at each corner and at 12 inch intervals around the panel.

Mark where to drill mounting holes by holding the plywood firmly in place over the openings.

Secure the plywood on all four sides if the window sill is flush to the wall. If the window sill extends out at the bottom, secure the plywood on the top and sides.

On a wood frame house use 1/4 inch lag screws and plastic coated permanent anchors for windows 3 feet by 4 feet or smaller. The lag screws should penetrate the wall and frame surrounding the window at least 1 ¾ inches.

For larger windows, use 3/8 inch lag screws that penetrate the wall and frame surrounding the window at least 2 ½ inches.

On a masonry house use 1/4 inch expansion bolts and galvanized permanent expansion anchors on windows 3 feet by 4 feet or smaller. The expansion bolts should penetrate the wall at least 1 ½ inches. For larger windows, use 3/8 inch expansion bolts that penetrate the wall at least 1 ½ inches.

If you have a window or door that is larger than a sheet of plywood join the panels with a 2x4 bracing along the seam. Attach the 2x4s to the outside of the plywood panel with 10 gauge, 2 inch long galvanized screws and space them out every 4 inches

Step 4: Finishing and Storing Panels

As you cut out each piece of wood, make sure that you use a marker to identify each piece, so that in the event of a hurricane you are prepared and ready to go. For example, you should mark them as “Large Kitchen Window,” “North Master Bath,” “South Family Room” etc. 

Place the cut pieces of plywood and all hardware together in a safe place. Consider waterproofing the panels with paint or a sealant. For a little added protection, you should close all curtains, drapes and blinds that are hanging in your windows.