How-To – Board Up Windows in an Emergency

GoBag.One™ | GoBag or Stay Home™

In a disaster—hurricane, riot, tornado, or SHTF—the weakest point in most homes is the glass. Boarding up windows protects your shelter, prevents injury, and buys you time. This guide covers the fast, no-nonsense way to secure windows using gear you can pre-stage or improvise.

Preparedness isn’t paranoia—it's protection. GoBag or Stay Home™ means fortify the home, or be ready to roll.

🕓 When to Board Up

• Before Impact: Use early warning time (storm, civil unrest).
• After Breakage: Secure broken windows after an event (quake, looting).
• Pre-Evacuation: Delay intrusion or damage after you leave.

🧰 Materials & Tools

• ⅝" exterior-grade plywood (cut to window size with overhang)
• Deck screws or nails
• Drill or hammer
• Measuring tape & marker
• Gloves and safety glasses
• Saw (handsaw or circular)

🔧 Board-Up Techniques

• Exterior Mounting (Best): Cut boards with at least 4" overhang. Drill holes 12–16" apart. Attach directly to wall studs or brick.
• Interior Mounting (When Outside Is Unsafe): Brace wood across interior window frame. Use long screws into studs. Less secure, but better than exposed glass.

🛠 Improvised Options

When plywood isn’t available, use what you have on hand. Improvised barriers can slow intruders, deflect debris, or block visibility:

• Shelving, interior doors, or tabletops for barriers.
• Stacked furniture for blast protection or visual block.
• Cardboard + duct tape layering if debris is light but time is short.

✅ Pro Tip

Run a 15-minute board-up drill on one window. Time yourself. Find the missing tools. Fix that gap. Then do another window next week. Over time, you’ll build muscle memory and identify weak points.

If you want to keep learning, go here → Advanced Survival Skills

Shelter, Power & Light | Shelter-in-Place Supply Checklist | Home Defense & Security Checklist

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