What Types of Damage Require Emergency Board-Up?
Last updated October 31, 2026
The short answer
Storm Damage and High Winds
Severe storms can shatter windows, tear off siding, or rip holes in your roof. High winds turn loose debris into projectiles that punch through glass and walls. Storm damage can happen any season, and a broken window or damaged roof leaves your home exposed to rain, snow, and wind that cause further water damage.
If a storm has compromised your home's exterior, board-up keeps out the elements and prevents water from soaking into floors, drywall, and belongings. It also stops animals and insects from entering through the opening. The pros can secure the area quickly, but you should act fast to limit the damage. Board-up is a temporary measure that buys you time to plan permanent repairs.
- Broken window panes from wind or hail
- Torn or missing roof shingles with exposed underlayment
- Damaged siding that leaves gaps to the outside
- Shattered glass doors or sliding panels
- Holes in exterior walls from flying debris
Fire Damage and Structural Gaps
A fire can burn through walls, break windows, or destroy doors even if the flames are contained. Firefighters may also need to break openings to access the fire or ventilate smoke. These gaps leave the interior vulnerable to weather and unauthorized entry. Boarding up after a fire protects the property while you deal with cleanup and restoration.
Smoke and soot already cause significant damage, and rain or wind through a broken opening makes it worse. The pros can board up burned-out windows and doorways to keep the structure secure. This also helps prevent further collapse in weakened areas. Check with your insurance company about coverage for board-up costs, as policies vary and your insurer decides what is covered.
Vandalism and Break-Ins
A break-in often leaves doors forced open, locks broken, or windows smashed. Even if nothing was stolen, the opening makes your home an easy target for more crime or for animals to get in. Boarding up the damaged entry points restores a basic level of security and keeps the weather out.
You may need to secure a back door or a ground-floor window that is now unusable. The pros can cover these openings with sturdy plywood that deters further intrusion. Until a permanent repair is made, board-up gives you peace of mind. Focus on securing the entry points first.
Accidental Impacts and Collisions
A car hitting your house, a fallen tree, or a heavy object striking a window can create sudden openings. These accidents can happen without warning and leave your home exposed. The damage may be limited to one area, but the opening still lets in rain, wind, and pests. Board-up is a practical way to protect the interior until repairs are done.
Even a small hole in a wall or a cracked window can allow water to seep in and cause mold or rot. The pros can assess the damage and cover the affected area. You should act quickly to prevent further deterioration. The cost of board-up depends on the size and number of openings, but it often ranges from a few hundred to a couple thousand dollars, depending on the specific situation.
- Vehicle impact through a garage door or wall
- Fallen tree branch breaking a window
- Heavy equipment or furniture striking glass
- Cracked window that could shatter at any moment
- Door frame bent so it no longer closes properly
What to Do While You Wait
While you wait for help, take steps to reduce further damage. Move valuable items away from the broken area, and place a tarp over the opening if you can do so safely. Avoid touching broken glass or sharp edges. If you feel unwell, see a doctor. Do not attempt to board up a large or high opening yourself, as that can be dangerous.
Take photos of the damage for your records, but do not delay securing the property. The pros will handle the board-up, but you can help by clearing a path and identifying all affected areas. Remember that board-up is a temporary solution, not a permanent fix. Your insurance company will decide what is covered, so check your policy and document everything.
Water damage does not wait
Call (614) 412-4391 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (614) 412-4391Frequently asked questions
How long does board-up last?
Board-up is meant to be temporary, lasting days to weeks. The plywood should hold until permanent repairs are made. Weather and the extent of damage affect how long it stays secure. The pros can advise you on the right materials for your situation.
Will insurance pay for board-up?
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Some policies include board-up as part of emergency repairs, but you need to check your specific plan. Contact your insurance company to ask about coverage and keep receipts for any expenses you pay.
Can I board up the damage myself?
You can cover a small, low window with plywood if you have the tools and know how. For large openings or high areas, it is safer to let the pros do it. Improper boarding can fail and cause more damage.
More questions and answers
- What Is Emergency Board-Up After Fire or Storm Damage?
- What Types of Damage Does a Hurricane Leave Behind?
- Why Do Insurance Companies Require Immediate Damage Mitigation?
- What Are the Most Common Home Emergency Damage Scenarios?
- How Much Does Emergency Board-up Service Cost?
- Does Insurance Cover Emergency Tarping and Board-Up?
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