Board Up A Window: Screws Vs Clips - Easy Guide

Hey guys! Ever wondered about the best way to board up a window? Whether you're prepping for a storm, securing a vacant property, or just need some extra security, knowing how to properly board up a window is super crucial. There are two main ways to do this: using screws or using clips. Both methods have their pros and cons, and in this guide, we’re going to break down everything you need to know to make the right choice for your situation. So, let's dive in and get your windows boarded up like a pro!

Why Board Up a Window?

Before we jump into the how-to, let’s quickly talk about why you might want to board up a window in the first place. Understanding the reasons will help you appreciate the importance of doing it right.

• Storm Protection: This is probably the most common reason. Hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe thunderstorms can hurl debris at your windows, causing them to shatter. Boarding up your windows provides a strong, physical barrier against flying objects, preventing costly damage and keeping your home safe.
• Security: Boarding up windows can deter burglars and vandals. A boarded-up window is much harder to break through than a standard window, making your property a less attractive target. This is especially useful if you’re leaving your home for an extended period or if you have a vacant property.
• Privacy: Sometimes, you might want to block the view into your home for privacy reasons. Boarding up windows can be a temporary solution to keep prying eyes out.
• Construction or Renovation: If you’re doing construction or renovation work, boarding up windows can protect them from damage and prevent dust and debris from entering your home.
• Vacant Properties: Boarding up windows in vacant properties helps prevent vandalism, squatting, and weather damage. It's a simple way to maintain the property's condition until it’s occupied again.

Knowing these reasons helps you prioritize the security and protection of your property. Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to board up those windows using screws and clips. Each method offers different levels of ease, cost-effectiveness, and security, so let’s explore the best option for you.

Method 1: Boarding Up with Screws

Okay, so let’s talk about boarding up windows with screws. This method is super reliable and provides a strong, secure hold. It's a bit more labor-intensive than using clips, but the peace of mind you get from knowing your boards are firmly in place is totally worth it. If you’re looking for a long-term solution or need maximum protection, screws are the way to go.

Materials You'll Need:

• Plywood: Use exterior-grade plywood that's at least 1/2 inch thick. Measure your windows and cut the plywood to fit, with a few inches of overlap on all sides. This overlap is crucial for providing adequate protection and a secure attachment.
• Screws: You’ll need exterior-grade screws that are long enough to go through the plywood and at least 1 1/2 inches into the window frame. Deck screws or construction screws work great. Using the right screws ensures that they won’t rust or corrode, which is essential for long-term protection.
• Drill: A power drill with a screw-driving bit is essential for this project. Make sure your drill is fully charged or you have an extension cord handy.
• Measuring Tape: Accurate measurements are key to a snug fit. Measure the height and width of each window opening, adding a few inches on each side for overlap. This will help you cut the plywood to the correct size and ensure full coverage.
• Pencil: For marking the plywood and screw locations. A pencil allows you to make precise marks that are easy to see and follow.
• Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris. Safety is always the top priority, so don't skip this step!
• Gloves: To protect your hands and improve your grip. Gloves can also prevent splinters and cuts while handling the plywood.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Measure Your Windows: Start by measuring the height and width of each window. Add about 4-6 inches to each measurement to ensure the plywood overlaps the window frame. This overlap is essential for a secure fit and maximum protection.
2. Cut the Plywood: Using your measurements, cut the plywood sheets to the correct size. You can use a circular saw or have the plywood cut at your local hardware store. Precise cuts will make the installation process much smoother and provide a cleaner, more professional look.
3. Position the Plywood: Hold the plywood sheet against the window frame, centering it over the window opening. Make sure the plywood covers the entire window and overlaps the frame evenly on all sides. This is a critical step for ensuring the window is fully protected.
4. Mark Screw Locations: Use a pencil to mark the locations for the screws. You should place screws every 12-18 inches around the perimeter of the plywood. Also, add screws in the middle of the plywood if the window is large. Proper screw placement is key to a secure hold.
5. Pre-Drill Holes (Optional but Recommended): Pre-drilling holes can make screwing in the screws easier and prevent the wood from splitting. Use a drill bit that's slightly smaller than the screws you're using. Pre-drilling also helps ensure the screws go in straight and flush with the plywood surface.
6. Attach the Plywood: Using your drill, drive the screws through the plywood and into the window frame. Make sure the screws are snug but not over-tightened. Over-tightening can strip the screws or damage the wood. The goal is to create a firm, secure attachment.
7. Check for Stability: Once the plywood is attached, give it a gentle push to make sure it’s secure. If there’s any movement, add more screws as needed. A stable, securely boarded-up window is the ultimate goal.

Pros of Using Screws:

• Maximum Security: Screws provide a very strong and secure hold, making it difficult for anyone to break through the boarding.
• Long-Term Solution: If you need to board up windows for an extended period, screws are a reliable choice.
• Durable: Screws are less likely to fail compared to clips, especially in severe weather conditions.

Cons of Using Screws:

• More Labor-Intensive: This method requires more time and effort to install compared to using clips.
• Leaves Holes: Screws will leave holes in your window frame, which you’ll need to repair later. This is a consideration if you’re renting or want to maintain the original appearance of your home.
• Requires More Tools: You’ll need a drill and screws, which can add to the cost if you don’t already own them.

Method 2: Boarding Up with Clips

Now, let's explore boarding up windows with clips. This method is faster and easier than using screws, making it a great option if you need a quick solution or don’t want to drill into your window frames. Clips are particularly useful for temporary boarding, like when a storm is approaching, and you need to secure your windows quickly. They are less permanent and can be easily removed without leaving any lasting damage.

Materials You'll Need:

• Plywood: Again, use exterior-grade plywood that's at least 1/2 inch thick. Measure your windows and cut the plywood to fit, with a few inches of overlap on all sides. Consistent with the screw method, the overlap is crucial for adequate protection.
• Window Boarding Clips: These are metal or plastic clips that attach to the window frame and hold the plywood in place. Make sure you buy enough clips for each window. The quantity of clips needed depends on the size of the window and the spacing recommended by the manufacturer.
• Hammer or Mallet: To tap the clips into place (if needed). Some clips may require a hammer or mallet for proper installation, ensuring they are securely attached to the window frame.
• Measuring Tape: Accurate measurements are just as important with clips as they are with screws. Precise measurements will ensure the plywood fits snugly and the clips can be properly positioned.
• Pencil: For marking the clip locations on the plywood. Marking the locations ensures the clips are evenly spaced and provide optimal support for the plywood.
• Safety Glasses: Always protect your eyes from potential debris. Safety should always be a priority, regardless of the method you choose.
• Gloves: To protect your hands while handling materials and installing clips. Gloves provide a better grip and protect against splinters and cuts.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Measure Your Windows: Just like with screws, start by measuring the height and width of each window, adding 4-6 inches to each measurement for overlap. Accurate measurements are key to a snug fit.
2. Cut the Plywood: Cut the plywood sheets to the correct size based on your measurements. You can cut it yourself or have it done at the hardware store. Precision in cutting the plywood is crucial for a seamless installation.
3. Position the Plywood: Hold the plywood sheet against the window frame, centering it over the window opening. Ensure the plywood covers the entire window and overlaps the frame evenly on all sides. Proper positioning is essential for maximum protection.
4. Mark Clip Locations: Follow the clip manufacturer's instructions for spacing. Typically, you’ll want to place clips every 12-18 inches around the perimeter of the plywood. Use a pencil to mark these locations. Even spacing ensures the plywood is securely held in place.
5. Attach the Clips to the Plywood: Attach the clips to the plywood at the marked locations. Some clips may require screws, while others simply snap into place. Follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions for your clips. Proper attachment is vital for the clips to function effectively.
6. Slide the Plywood into the Clips: Slide the edges of the plywood into the clips attached to the window frame. Make sure the plywood is seated securely in the clips. A secure fit ensures the plywood stays in place, even in high winds or impacts.
7. Check for Stability: Give the plywood a gentle push to ensure it’s securely held in place by the clips. If there’s any movement, add more clips as needed. Stability is key to effective window boarding.

Pros of Using Clips:

• Faster Installation: Clips are much quicker to install than screws, saving you time and effort. This is especially beneficial when you need to board up windows quickly, such as before a storm.
• No Damage to Window Frames: Clips don’t require drilling, so they won’t leave holes in your window frames. This is a significant advantage if you want to avoid permanent alterations to your property.
• Easy Removal: Clips are easy to remove, making them a great option for temporary boarding. Removing the plywood is as simple as detaching the clips, making it convenient for situations where the boarding is only needed for a short period.

Cons of Using Clips:

• Less Secure: Clips are generally less secure than screws, especially in high winds or severe weather. While clips provide a decent level of protection, they might not withstand the same forces as screws.
• Can Be More Expensive: Depending on the type and quality of clips, they can be more expensive than screws. The cost can add up, especially if you have multiple windows to board.
• May Not Fit All Windows: Some clips may not fit certain types of window frames, so you need to ensure compatibility before purchasing. Checking the clip specifications and your window frame type is crucial for a successful installation.

Screws vs. Clips: Which Method is Right for You?

So, you’ve got the lowdown on both methods. But how do you decide which one is the best for your needs? Let’s break it down with a few scenarios.

Choose Screws If:

• You need maximum security: If you’re in an area prone to severe weather or you’re boarding up a vacant property for security reasons, screws are the way to go. They offer the strongest, most reliable hold.
• You need a long-term solution: If you’re boarding up windows for an extended period, screws will provide a more durable and stable solution.
• You don’t mind making repairs later: If you’re okay with patching up screw holes in your window frames, then the added security of screws is worth it.

Choose Clips If:

• You need a quick solution: If a storm is approaching and you need to board up your windows fast, clips are the quicker option.
• You want to avoid damaging your window frames: If you’re renting or want to preserve the appearance of your windows, clips are a great choice.
• You need a temporary solution: If you only need to board up your windows for a short time, clips are easy to remove and reuse.

Quick Comparison Table

To make your decision even easier, here’s a quick comparison table:

Extra Tips for Boarding Up Windows

Before we wrap up, here are a few extra tips to ensure you board up your windows like a total pro:

• Use High-Quality Materials: Don’t skimp on the plywood or fasteners. Investing in quality materials will ensure your windows are well-protected.
• Pre-Drill Holes (if using screws): As mentioned earlier, pre-drilling holes can prevent the wood from splitting and make the screwing process easier.
• Ensure a Snug Fit: Make sure the plywood fits snugly against the window frame. Gaps can weaken the protection and allow wind and debris to enter.
• Inspect Regularly: If you’re boarding up windows for an extended period, inspect the boards and fasteners regularly to ensure they’re still secure.
• Store Boards Properly: If you’re boarding up windows for storm protection, store the plywood in a dry place so it’s ready to use when you need it.
• Consider Professional Help: If you’re not comfortable boarding up windows yourself, or if you have large or unusually shaped windows, consider hiring a professional.

Final Thoughts

Alright, guys, that’s the complete guide to boarding up a window with screws or clips! Whether you opt for the robust security of screws or the quick convenience of clips, knowing how to properly protect your windows is a crucial skill. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be well-prepared to safeguard your home against storms, intruders, and other potential threats. So, grab your tools, measure those windows, and get boarding! Stay safe and secure out there!