What Materials Are Used for Emergency Board-Up?

Plywood is the primary material for boarding up broken openings. It is sturdy, readily available, and provides a solid barrier against weather and intruders. Pros cut sheets to fit the specific opening and then fasten them securely. This creates a temporary seal that protects the interior from rain, wind, and debris until a window or door can be properly replaced.

The thickness, or ply, of the wood matters. For emergency board-up, half-inch thick exterior-grade plywood is common. It resists warping from moisture. This grade is crucial in a humid subtropical climate with hot rainy summers and an Atlantic hurricane season. The wood must handle high humidity and occasional heavy downpours to keep your home's interior dry.

For roof damage, heavy-duty tarps and plastic sheeting are the go-to materials. These are waterproof and designed to be draped over damaged sections. They are not a permanent fix but will divert water away from the interior. The material is anchored using wooden laths and long screws to prevent it from flapping or blowing away in high winds.

Installation requires care to avoid causing more damage. The pros will not walk on a compromised roof structure if it is unsafe. They may use ladders and poles to position the tarp from the edge. The goal is to create a temporary watershed that channels water off the roof and into the gutters, protecting your attic and ceilings.

• Heavy-duty polyethylene tarps
• Waterproof woven plastic sheeting
• Long wooden laths or furring strips
• Hex-head roofing screws with washers
• Roofing nails for temporary holds
• Sandbags or weights for edges

Using the correct, durable materials is critical for safety and effectiveness. Consumer-grade plastic sheeting or thin wood can tear or fail quickly, leading to more water intrusion. Local water damage pros use industrial-grade supplies designed for temporary structural applications. This ensures the board-up holds under stressful conditions, protecting your property until permanent repairs are scheduled.

A proper board-up also helps with insurance claims. It demonstrates you took reasonable steps to prevent further loss, which is often a policy requirement. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Documenting the damage and the emergency repairs with photos is a good practice before the board-up is installed, as it provides a clear record for your adjuster.

• Correct materials withstand high winds
• Proper fasteners prevent failure
• Exterior-grade materials resist moisture
• Secure board-ups deter theft
• Temporary roofs prevent interior leaks
• Safety equipment protects installers