How Much Does Emergency Board-Up Service Cost?

Last updated October 25, 2026

The short answer

What Drives the Price

The biggest factor is how many openings need covering. A single standard window costs less than a sliding glass door or a large picture window. The height of the home also matters, since covering a second-story window takes more time and equipment.

Material choice affects the total. Thicker plywood or boards that are cut to fit each opening cost more than generic sheets. In Burnsville, you may also pay a bit more if the damage is urgent and the pros need to source materials quickly.

Labor and Urgency

Labor is a major part of the bill. The pros charge for measuring, cutting, and securing each board. If the damage is extensive, such as after a storm, the job takes longer and the price goes up.

Urgency can add to the cost, but you should still act quickly to protect your home from weather and intruders. A boarded window keeps out rain and wind, which matters in a climate with cold winters and warm, humid summers.

Number of windows and doors to cover
Size and type of each opening
Height of the damaged areas
Type and thickness of plywood used
Time needed to measure, cut, and secure
Whether the job is done as an emergency

How to Get a Fair Price

Ask the pros for a clear breakdown of materials and labor before any work starts. A written list of what will be covered and what each part costs helps you avoid surprises. You can also ask if the boards can be reused later for permanent repairs.

The pros should use sturdy materials and secure them properly so the boards stay in place until a permanent fix is done. That quality matters for your safety and the condition of your home.

What Happens After Board-Up

Board-up is usually a temporary fix. After the boards are in place, you still need to address the underlying damage, such as a broken window or a hole in the wall. The pros can help you plan the next steps, which might include drying out the area or repairing the structure.

If water got in before the boards were installed, you may need extra work to dry the space and prevent mold. Acting fast reduces the risk of further damage. You can ask the pros about the full scope of what your home needs.

Insurance and Your Policy

Your insurance policy may help pay for emergency board-up if the damage is from a covered event, like a storm or a fire. Check your policy to see what is included. Some policies cover temporary protection, while others do not.

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. It is wise to call them soon after the damage to understand your options. The pros can give you a detailed receipt that you can share with your insurer.

Need help right now?

Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I board up the windows myself to save money?

You can, but it is risky. The pros have the right tools and materials to secure boards properly, especially for high or large openings. A poor DIY job can let in water or fail in a storm, leading to more damage and higher costs later.

How long will the boards stay in place?

Boards are meant to be temporary, usually lasting from a few days to a few weeks until permanent repairs are done. The exact time depends on the weather and how soon you can schedule the fix. The pros will secure them well, but they are not a long-term solution.

Do I need to be home when the pros do the board-up?

Not necessarily. Many pros can work without you present, as long as they have access to the damaged areas. You may need to be there to let them in or to approve the work. Ask the pros what they need from you beforehand.