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Can You DIY an Emergency Board-Up After Storm Damage?

Last updated October 26, 2026

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The short answer

Why a Quick Board-Up Matters

After a storm breaks a window or damages a door, your home is exposed to rain, wind, and wildlife. Water can seep into walls and floors within hours, leading to mold and rot. A temporary board-up helps slow that process until proper repairs can happen.

You do not need special skills to cover a small opening. Measure the gap, cut a piece of plywood to fit, and screw it over the frame. For larger gaps or multiple broken windows, the job gets trickier and may take more time and materials.

What You Need for a DIY Board-Up

Gather exterior-grade plywood at least half an inch thick, screws long enough to bite into the frame, a drill, a saw, and a hammer. You might also want a pry bar to remove jagged glass and a tarp to cover the opening if you cannot cut wood right away.

If the window is on an upper floor, you will need a sturdy ladder and someone to help hold the plywood. Do not stand on wet surfaces or work in strong winds. Your safety comes first, and a broken window is not worth a fall.

  • Measure the opening from the outside, adding a few inches on each side
  • Cut plywood with a circular saw or handsaw
  • Secure with screws, not nails, so removal is easier later
  • Cover sharp edges with duct tape or a tarp
  • For doors, brace the frame with a 2x4 if the lock is broken

When DIY Is Not Enough

Board-ups are a stopgap, not a permanent fix. If the storm tore off part of the roof, cracked a wall, or damaged the structure, plywood alone will not protect your home. Water can still get in around edges, and hidden leaks may worsen.

Also, if you see sagging ceilings, warped floors, or standing water, you are dealing with more than a broken window. Those signs point to water damage that has already started. A professional inspection can reveal the full extent before you spend time on temporary patches.

What the Pros Usually Do

Local water damage pros have the tools and materials to secure larger openings and reinforce weak spots. They also check for water intrusion that you might miss, like behind walls or under flooring. Their work typically involves a thorough assessment before any repairs begin.

After a board-up, the pros often move on to drying and cleanup if water got inside. That process includes removing wet materials, setting up drying equipment, and monitoring moisture levels. You can handle the initial board-up, but the follow-up is where professional help matters.

Next Steps After Your Board-Up

Once the opening is covered, document the damage with photos and notes. That helps your insurance company understand what happened and what you did to protect your home. Keep receipts for any materials you bought.

Then contact a water damage inspection service to look for hidden issues. If water already entered, you may need cleanup and structural repairs. Acting quickly reduces the chance of mold and long-term damage. If you live in Bellingham, keep your emergency supplies ready for the next storm.

  • Take photos of the broken window and your board-up
  • Note the date and time the damage occurred
  • Check for wet spots inside your home near the opening
  • Dry any wet areas with towels and a fan
  • Keep a list of materials you used for your records

Need help right now?

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Frequently asked questions

How long does a DIY board-up last?

A well-secured plywood board-up can last several weeks, but it is not meant to be permanent. Weather and moisture will eventually weaken it. Plan to have professional repairs done within a few weeks to avoid further damage.

What if I cannot reach the broken window safely?

If the window is high up or the area is unsafe, do not risk injury. Call a professional board-up service or a handyman who has the right equipment. Your safety is more important than protecting the opening right away.

Will my insurance cover the board-up costs?

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Some policies may reimburse you for materials used to protect your home after a storm. Document everything and check your policy details to understand what is included.

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