menu
Daily Bits Email

Cooke User

Cooke User

Boarding Up a Doorway

A doorway that is boarded up prevents hail, snow and rain from further destroying the property. It also keeps scavengers as well as vandals away.


Doors are more secure than windows, however they can still be broken or kicked into. These doors should be set with composite frame that will not warp over time.

Take a look at the Doorway

A doorway is an opening that allows you to can enter or exit an area, a building, or a passage. A doorway can be a portal which allows access to a different location for instance, a different room in the home or a completely different part of the country.

To determine how large a doorway is, you'll have to measure the doorway. Begin by measuring the width from one side of the frame to the other using a tape measure. Before taking this measurement, it is important to remove all brickmould and trim pieces. This will ensure that you only measure the frame, not the actual window or door. Measure these measurements in three locations and select the largest number to represent the size of the doorway.

Take a rough measurement of the opening of the existing door if you are planning to replace it. It is possible to do this without removing the door by prying the old door away from the jamb with the wide tool. This will expose the framing rough that will be used to hang the new door. Take leatherhead boarding up doors in three places and then use the smallest number as the height of the new door.

You can also measure how wide the doorway is by running a tape measure along the frame in three places: left, center and right. Take the measurement with the highest value to determine the width. This is the most effective method to ensure your plywood will cover all the area and allow you install windows or doors that are new.

Measure the Frame

You can add measurable protection to your home by boarding up windows doors, windows and other openings that allow in the elements. The first step is to examine each window to determine its size and shape, and then determine the width of the frame. Take note of each measurement, so you can cut the plywood boards to the dimensions of the frame.

Before you start, wear protective gear to guard against broken glass and other hazards. It is also recommended to work with someone else because it's easier to handle large sheets of plywood with a second pair hands.

Use a wide masking tape fix the cracks, and then remove any panes that can't be taped. Cover the remaining cracks with heavy plastic garbage bags. You can also wrap the trash bags in out for added strength.

If the frame is in good condition, you can save time by skipping the framing and simply running a new stud straight across the gap at the middle of the window. This will give the board-up more strength, without the extra effort of removing and installing the framing itself.

Get a few plywood sheets and tools such as a hammer, drill and saw (if cutting is required). Mark each sheet according to the frame's dimensions. Attach the frame to the plywood using the pilot holes that you previously drilled.

Find the Jambs

The jambs are three pieces wood on which a door is mounted directly. They are vital to keep the door shut properly. They must be secure and even. You'll need to adjust the jambs if they aren't level.

Start with the side jambs of the hinge, that have a raised section towards the center, which is known as the doorstop. The doorstop sits on the door slab and keeps it from hitting the frame when it closes. Install a piece of plywood on the bottom of every stud to raise the floor in the rough opening by 1/2 inch. (Photo). This will stop the door from scratching the tile, carpet or throw rug when it is opened and closed.

Remove any trim, molding, or casing that is affixed to the jamb of the hinge to obtain an accurate measurement. This will reveal the opening, which will allow you to accurately measure it.

When you finish measuring your measurements, mark the location of the hinge holes on both sides of the hinge jamb. Using a combination square, locate the hinge mortise depth and adjust the combination square until it's equal to the mark you made on the jamb of the hinge. This will ensure that the hinge is properly centered in the frame and correctly aligned with the door. Repeat this process for the latch jamb. Utilize a nail gun as well as 2-1/2-inch finishing screws to secure the strike side.

Measure the Header

A header is a large, dimensional lumber board nailed to the wall's top framing, and transferring loads over window and door openings to the studs below. When properly framed the king and jack studs are nailed on each side of the header. They also butt up against the header on both ends to create a strong column that transfers the weight from the opening to the floor and foundation.

In traditional framed houses it is possible to use tables in the code to determine the size of the header to fit a certain span. A typical header is a double 2x12, and the code provides tables for three building widths and you can use interpolation to get the next wider size to determine the proper header size.

But there are other better, more efficient alternatives to the standard 2x12 header that can save lumber, cut down on thermal bridging, and free up space to be used for insulation. Mike Guertin examines these options and explains when each is suitable.

He also discusses rim-board headers that can bridge an opening in the wall without using an actual header. This removes one step from the framing process and usually will result in an even stronger frame. He also discusses box headers which are more difficult to construct, but provide greater spans than single-ply headers. He also discusses the schedule for fastening these headers that calls for 8d common nails spacing every 3 inches.

Cut the Boards

Before boarding up a door, it is important to clean the area thoroughly. To allow enough space for work and prevent damage to your belongings, remove all furniture and decor. Take the doorknobs off and lock and store them in a secure place to be reinstalled later. Clean the door and frame and wipe down the surfaces to get rid of dust dirt and other debris for better adhesion. If needed, sand rough patches to ensure that the boards are securely inserted and provide effective protection.

Once the doorway is cleared, it is time to start cutting the plywood boards. A circular saw can cut straight lines through wood and can easily cut through it. A Jigsaw is ideal for curved areas. Wearing protective gear like safety goggles as well as a dust mask is essential in this step.

After cutting the board to size, it is essential to verify its alignment with the frame and jambs. To reinforce the board, it's recommended to add a few vertical pieces on the bottom of your board. After the board has been properly aligned and secured, it is ready to be nailed in place.

A doorway that is boarded up can help safeguard your home or business from damage and unauthorized entry during a storm, disaster, or other event. It can also be used to secure a vacant property or to prevent theft and break-ins until the property can be occupied. A thorough assessment of the situation and the reason of the boarding will aid in determining the best material choice and method of installation to get the most effective results.

Install the Boards

The boards should be secured using screws that are heavy-duty, rather than nails. The strength of these fasteners will distribute the pressure and prevent prying, enhancing the effectiveness of your boarding. The sealing of the edges with caulk or weatherstripping can stop rain and wind from getting through the gaps. It's also a good idea to leave a ventilation space to prevent humid air and stuffy air.

Wearing gloves and goggles is essential when using a power tool. Mark your cuts with a pencil and a straightedge, as mistakes are harder to fix after you've finished cutting. You'll need to make the cut as precise as you can to ensure that the boards sit perfectly against the frame and door casing. The jambs and the head will require trimming to ensure they're aligned with the wall.

It is best to prepare your home before the storm hits so that you will have plenty of time to cover other areas that are vulnerable. You can save a lot of time and effort by planning ahead. With the proper preparation your home or business will be protected from criminal activity and damage caused by flying debris and winds. You'll also have peace of mind knowing that your property is safe.

Member since: Thursday, December 5, 2024

Website: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/leatherhead-emergency-boarding-up-near-me/

BitsDuJour is for People who Love Software
Every day we review great Mac & PC apps, and get you discounts up to 100%
Follow Us
© Copyright 2025 BitsDuJour LLC. Code & Design. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy