24 Hour Emergency Board Up

A crew covers a broken or forced opening with plywood, braced with 2x4s where needed, so weather and intruders stay out until the glass, door or wall is permanently repaired.

If it is at ground level, faces rain or wind, or leaves loose glass where people walk, treat it as one. An open window invites water damage and theft, and most insurance policies expect you to stop further damage quickly.

Usually, yes. Plywood goes over the broken panels and the entry door is kept usable where it is safe, so the shop can keep trading while replacement glass is ordered.

A single standard window typically runs about $650 to $1,400 in the U.S. Large storefront panels, second-story work and multiple openings push the price up.

Board up after a covered loss such as fire, storm or a break-in is often covered as a step to prevent further damage. Check your policy, keep the invoice, and photograph the damage before it is covered.

Once the fire department releases the scene, every vented or broken window and door is covered with plywood fastened to solid framing, and one lockable door is left for adjusters and the restoration crew.

Cut 1/2 or 5/8 inch plywood to overlap the opening, then screw it into the framing or bolt it through 2x4 strongbacks on the inside so the panel cannot be pried off and the trim is not destroyed.

Plywood board ups commonly stay up for days to a few weeks until glass or doors are replaced. Vacant buildings are often boarded with plywood meant to stay up for months.