What Materials Are Used for Emergency Board-Up?
Last updated October 31, 2026
The short answer
Plywood Is the Primary Boarding Material
Plywood is the most common and versatile material used for emergency board-up. It is strong, readily available, and easy for the pros to cut to size on site. They typically use exterior-grade plywood, which is treated to resist moisture. This makes it suitable for covering broken windows, damaged doors, or holes in walls caused by storms or accidents.
The thickness of plywood used depends on the size of the opening and the need for security. For a standard window, half-inch plywood is often sufficient. For larger openings like a damaged garage door or a wall breach, thicker three-quarter-inch material may be necessary to ensure the barrier is robust and cannot be easily forced open.
Other Common Boarding and Fastening Materials
Oriented strand board is another option, often used when plywood is less available. It provides a strong, cost-effective panel. For covering roof damage or large openings where a rigid board is not ideal, the pros may use heavy-duty, reinforced polyethylene tarps. These are anchored securely to the structure to prevent wind from getting underneath.
The fasteners are as important as the boarding material itself. The pros use exterior-grade wood screws or specialized hurricane clips and washers to attach the boards. These fasteners are designed to grip tightly and resist pulling out under pressure. Proper fastening ensures the temporary seal holds until permanent repairs are scheduled.
- Exterior-grade plywood in various thicknesses
- Oriented strand board panels
- Heavy-duty, reinforced polyethylene tarps
- Long, exterior-grade wood screws
- Hurricane clips and anchor washers
- Silicone or butyl rubber sealant tape for gaps
How Materials Are Selected for Your Situation
The choice of materials depends on the specific damage. A broken basement window requires a different approach than a hole in a roof. The pros assess the size, location, and cause of the opening. They also consider the immediate weather forecast, as high winds or rain demand a more secure installation.
Security is another major factor. A ground-level opening on an unoccupied property needs a more robust, tamper-resistant board-up than a small upper-story window. The pros select materials and fastening methods that deter unauthorized entry. Their temporary repair should make your property safe and prevent further interior damage from the elements.
The Goal of a Proper Emergency Board-Up
A proper board-up is not just about covering a hole. Its primary goal is to stabilize the property and prevent secondary damage. This means keeping out rain, snow, wind, and pests. In many climates, keeping moisture out is critical to prevent mold growth inside the walls.
The temporary barrier also protects any undamaged parts of the structure and your belongings inside. It gives you time to coordinate with your insurance company and schedule permanent repairs with a carpenter, roofer, or window installer. A well-executed board-up is a crucial first step in the recovery process after a damaging event.
Next Steps After an Emergency Board-Up
Once the property is secured, you should contact your insurance company to report the damage and start the claims process. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Take photos of the damage and the completed board-up for your records. These can be important for your claim.
The board-up is temporary. You will need to arrange for permanent repairs to be made by the appropriate trade professional, such as a window glazier or a framing carpenter. If water entered the home before the board-up, you may also need professional water damage restoration services to dry out the structure and prevent mold.
- Document all damage with photographs
- Contact your insurance provider promptly
- Schedule permanent repairs with a qualified tradesperson
- Arrange for water extraction if interior flooding occurred
- Monitor the boarded area for any signs of failure
- Keep the area clear to allow access for the tradespeople making permanent repairs.
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Call Now (410) 237-0394Frequently asked questions
How long will an emergency board-up last?
A professionally installed board-up is designed to last for several weeks or even months, depending on the materials and weather. It is a temporary solution, however. You should plan for permanent repairs as soon as possible to restore your home's integrity and appearance.
Will my insurance cover the cost of boarding up?
Many homeowners insurance policies cover the cost of emergency board-up as part of securing the property to prevent further loss. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. You should check your policy details and submit your receipts as part of your overall claim.
Can I do an emergency board-up myself?
You can attempt a DIY board-up for minor damage if you have the right tools and materials. However, for larger openings, roof damage, or if security is a concern, hiring the pros is safer. They have the experience to install a secure, weathertight barrier that protects your home effectively.
More questions and answers
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- When Does a Home Need Emergency Board-Up Service?
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