Why Is It Important to Board up a Home After Damage?

The short answer

Protects Against Weather

After damage, your home's openings can let rain, snow, and wind inside. Water that gets in can soak drywall, wood, and insulation, causing rot and mold. In a humid continental climate, moisture can linger and create bigger problems.

Boarding up windows and doors keeps out the elements. This helps prevent new water damage and slows the spread of existing issues. You can also protect your home from extreme temperatures, which can affect pipes and other systems. Taking this step early gives you more time to plan repairs and reduces the chance of additional problems.

Blocks rain from entering broken windows

Reduces wind damage to interior walls

Prevents snow from piling up inside

Keeps out pests and rodents

Slows the growth of mold and mildew

Maintains some temperature control

Stops Further Structural Decay

A damaged roof or wall can worsen if left open to the sky. Boards add a layer of support, keeping loose materials in place. This can prevent partial collapses or falling debris that could hurt someone.

Securing the structure also makes it safer for you to enter and start cleaning up. You can inspect the damage more thoroughly and decide what needs professional help. Without boarding, a small problem can become a much larger one. Boards give you peace of mind that the home is less likely to suffer additional harm.

Holds broken glass and shards in place

Prevents loose siding from blowing off

Stops debris from entering living spaces

Reduces stress on the roof structure

Keeps the home stable until repairs begin

Deters Vandals and Thieves

An open, damaged home can attract people looking for easy access. Vandals might cause more damage, and thieves could take belongings. Boarding up makes it harder for someone to get inside without being noticed.

Helps with Insurance and Inspections

Your insurance company may need to inspect the property before repairs begin. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Boarding up shows that you took reasonable steps to protect your home from further damage. This can be part of your claim process.

When to Call the Pros

You can board up small areas yourself with plywood and basic tools. For large or high windows, or if the structure is unstable, you should get help. The pros can handle tricky situations safely and efficiently. They have the right equipment and knowledge for tough jobs.

If you live in Columbus, consider hiring local water damage pros for homes with significant damage. They can advise on the right way to secure your property and prepare for restoration. It is a practical step to protect your investment.

Related services include water-damage-inspection, historic-home, and townhouse.

Frequently asked questions

Can I board up my own home?

Yes, for smaller openings you can use plywood and basic tools. Make sure the boards are thick and securely fastened. For large areas or unsafe structures, it is safer to let the pros handle it.

How long should the boards stay up?

Keep them up until the damage is repaired and the home is secure again. This could be days or weeks, depending on the extent of the damage. Check the boards regularly for looseness.

What type of wood is right for boarding?

Plywood that is at least 5/8 inch thick works well for most openings. It should be exterior grade to resist moisture. Use screws, not nails, for a more secure fit.