How to Put Plywood Over Aluminum Frame Windows

When a window is broken, an immediate repair may not be feasible. The window should not be left exposed to the elements. The best temporary solution to covering the broken window is screwing a piece of plywood over it. This provides protection from the elements as well as some level of security. If the broken window has an aluminum frame, plywood is still a viable option.

Things You'll Need

• Piece of plywood
• Electric screw gun
• Driver bit
• Tape measure
• Straight edge
• Circular saw
• 3 1/2 to 4 inch stainless steel wood screws
• Protective eye ware
• Ear plugs

Instructions

1. Measure the window. Use a tape measure to measure the length and the width of the broken window. Make sure to measure from the outside edge of the frame so the plywood covers both the window and the frame.

2. Draw the measurements. Use a straight edge to draw lines on the plywood representing the measurements taken from the window.

3. Cut out the piece of plywood for the window with a circular saw.

4. Ensure the plywood fits. Hold the plywood up to the window and ensure it fits evenly. Use an electric screw gun with 3 1/2- to 4-inch stainless steel wood screws to secure the top of the plywood first. It is important to use screws long enough to go through the aluminum frame and into the wood underneath. The stainless steel screws will not rust in the weather.

5. Screw in screws around the entire parameter of the frame every 8 to 10 inches. This will ensure the plywood will not blow off, and it will also offer some security by making it more difficult for someone to remove the plywood.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use protective eyewear and ear plugs when operating a circular saw.