How To Board Up A Sliding Glass Door

Boarding up a sliding glass door is not an everyday task for most of us. However, sometimes it becomes necessary to board up a sliding glass door due to a storm, break-in or other reasons. In this article, I will share my personal experience of boarding up a sliding glass door and provide a step-by-step guide on how to do it.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Measure the Door

The first step is to measure the size of the sliding glass door. This will help you determine the size of the plywood or board you need to buy. Measure the width and height of the door and add an additional inch to each measurement.

Step 2: Buy the Plywood or Board

Once you have measured the door, visit a hardware store and buy the plywood or board. Make sure it is at least ¾ inch thick and cut it according to the measurements you took in step 1.

Step 3: Prepare the Door

Clean the sliding glass door and remove any debris or dust. Cover the door with a protective sheet or plastic to prevent any damage while installing the board.

Step 4: Install the Board

Place the board over the sliding glass door and secure it in place using screws or nails. Make sure the board covers the entire door and is tightly secured. You can also use a drill to make pilot holes before securing the board to prevent it from splitting.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

Use ¾ inch thick plywood or board for better security and durability.
Measure the door accurately to avoid any gaps or spaces.
Cover the door with a protective sheet to prevent any scratches or damage.
Use screws or nails to secure the board tightly in place.
You can also use a drill to make pilot holes before securing the board to prevent it from splitting.
Paint or stain the board to match your home’s exterior for a better appearance.
Consider adding a lock or latch to the board for added security.
Remove the board once the emergency situation is over and repair any damages or scratches if necessary.
Consider installing impact-resistant sliding glass doors for better protection against storms and break-ins.
Consult a professional if you are unsure about how to board up your sliding glass door.

Pros and Cons

Boarding up a sliding glass door can provide temporary protection against storms, break-ins, and other emergencies. It is a cost-effective solution and easy to install. However, it can affect the appearance of your home and may not provide enough security against determined intruders.

Personal Review and Suggestion

Boarding up a sliding glass door is a quick and easy solution for emergency situations. However, it is not a permanent solution and may not provide enough security against determined intruders. I suggest considering impact-resistant sliding glass doors or other security measures for better protection. Always consult a professional if you are unsure about how to board up your sliding glass door.

FAQs

Q: Can I install the board from the inside?

A: Yes, you can install the board from the inside if the door opens inward. However, it may be difficult to secure the board tightly from the inside.

Q: How long can I keep the board up?

A: You should only keep the board up for as long as necessary. Once the emergency situation is over, remove the board and repair any damages if necessary.