How Much Does It Cost to Board Up a Window with Plywood?

Looking to board up a window with plywood? The average cost is $250 per window, with most homeowners paying between $100 and $400. Small, first-floor windows can cost as little as $50, while large or difficult-to-access windows might run up to $500. Emergency boarding services add $50-$100 to your total.

These costs typically include materials and labor, though prices vary based on your window size, location, and whether you need immediate service. DIY boarding can save you around $200 per window, costing just $25-$40 in materials.

Average Window Boarding Costs & Price Ranges

Understanding window boarding costs helps property owners make informed decisions about protecting their homes. The total cost varies depending on several factors, including window size, location, and urgency of service.

Standard Window Boarding Price Breakdown

The base cost for boarding a single window ranges from $100 to $400, with most property owners paying around $250. This price typically covers both materials and labor costs. A standard project includes plywood board installation, basic supplies, and professional labor for secure mounting.

Window Size Cost Range:

• Small windows (3×2 ft): $150-$250
• Medium windows (4×3 ft): $200-$300
• Large windows (6×4 ft): $300-$400
• Extra-large windows (8×6 ft): $400-$500

Emergency vs Planned Service Costs

Emergency board up services typically cost more than planned installations. During severe weather or break-ins, emergency services can add $50-$100 to the final cost. After-hours calls or weekend service may incur higher costs. Planned installations allow property owners to avoid these additional fees and often result in better pricing.

Service Type Comparison:

• Standard service (scheduled): Base rate
• Emergency service (daytime): Base rate + $50
• Emergency service (after hours): Base rate + $100
• Holiday service: Base rate + $150

Multiple Window Pricing

Property owners can save money when boarding multiple windows simultaneously. Professionals often offer discounts for more work, reducing the per-window cost. A typical discount ranges from 10-20% when boarding three or more windows during the same job.

Complete Cost Breakdown: Materials & Labor

To understand the total investment required, it’s important to examine each cost component separately. This breakdown helps homeowners budget accurately for their home improvement project.

Plywood & Hardware Costs

Material costs start with plywood, which ranges from $0.75 to $1.25 per square foot. Standard 4×8 ft sheets cost $24-$40 each. Additional supplies include:

Materials Price List:

• Plywood (per sheet): $24-$40
• Screws and fasteners: $10-$15
• Weather stripping: $5-$10
• Basic hardware: $15-$25

Professional Labor Charges

Labor costs constitute 80-90% of the total project cost. Professional installation typically runs $40-$60 per hour, with most jobs taking 2-3 hours per window. Labor rates vary depending on geographic location and project complexity.

Additional Equipment Fees

Some projects require special equipment, especially for upper-story windows or extreme temperatures. Common additional fees include:

• Ladder rental: $25-$35 per day
• Safety equipment: $15-$25
• Power tool rental: $30-$50
• Transportation fees: $25-$50

Unexpected Cost Factors

Various circumstances can increase the final cost. These may include:

• Damaged window frames requiring extra cover
• Additional security measures for vacant property
• Special tools needed for unique installations
• Extended work hours in challenging conditions

Cost Factor Impact:
Basic Installation: $250

• Damage repair: +$50-$100
• Security upgrades: +$75-$150
• Special equipment: +$50-$100
• Weather challenges: +$25-$75

What Affects Window Boarding Costs?

Several factors influence the total cost of boarding up windows. Understanding these variables helps property owners anticipate expenses and plan their home improvement project more effectively.

Window Size & Location Impact

The square foot measurement and placement of windows significantly affect labor costs and material requirements. Higher windows require additional equipment and safety measures, leading to increased expenses.

Cost Variables by Location:

• Ground floor: Base rate
• Second floor: +25% to base rate
• Third floor or higher: +40% to base rate
• Difficult access: +50% to base rate

Material Type & Quality Differences

Different types of wood and plywood board options vary in price and durability. The material choice impacts both immediate costs and long-term security, especially for vacant property protection.

Material Comparison:

• Standard plywood: $0.75-$1.25/sq ft
• Marine-grade plywood: $2.00-$2.50/sq ft
• OSB board: $0.50-$0.75/sq ft
• Treated lumber: $1.50-$2.00/sq ft

Labor Rates by Region

Professional service costs vary by geographic location. Urban areas typically have higher costs due to increased business expenses and market demand.

Regional Rate Examples:

• Northeast: $65-85/hour
• Southeast: $45-65/hour
• Midwest: $50-70/hour
• West Coast: $70-90/hour

Time & Season Pricing

Severe weather seasons and emergency board up services during extreme temperatures affect pricing. Additional fees often apply during peak demand periods.

Seasonal Cost Factors:

• Off-peak season: Standard rate
• Hurricane season: +20%
• Winter storms: +15%
• Emergency response: +30%

Money-Saving Tips for Window Boarding

While securing windows is essential for property protection, there are several ways to manage expenses without compromising on security. Smart planning and material selection can lead to significant savings.

Best Times to Schedule Service

Planning ahead helps avoid emergency services fees and allows for better rates. Booking during off-peak seasons can result in substantial savings on the final cost.

Timing Strategies:

• Off-season booking: 15-20% savings
• Advance scheduling: 10-15% savings
• Group scheduling: 20-25% savings
• Regular hours vs. emergency: 30-40% savings

Material Selection Guide

Choosing the right supplies and tools can reduce project costs while maintaining effectiveness. Smart material choices help balance quality with budget constraints.

Cost-Effective Options:

• Standard plywood for temporary cover
• Bulk hardware purchase
• Rented vs. purchased tools
• Reusable materials

Group Discount Options

Coordinating with neighbors or covering multiple windows in one job often leads to better pricing. Many professionals offer reduced rates for more work volume.

Volume Discount Structure:

• Single window: Base rate
• 2-3 windows: 10% off
• 4-6 windows: 15% off
• 7+ windows: 20% off

This strategic approach to window boarding helps property owners save money while ensuring proper home improvement and security measures are in place.