Commercial Boarding Up: 11 Thing You're Not Doing

Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide

In the business world, security is vital. Whether handling a store, office complex, or storage facility, securing physical properties is crucial, especially in times of crisis. One major preventive measure companies can take is boarding up their premises. This post explores the idea of commercial boarding up, including its benefits, approaches, and finest practices for execution.

What is Commercial Boarding Up?

Commercial boarding up refers to the procedure of momentarily securing windows and doors of commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is frequently utilized throughout emergencies such as natural disasters, vandalism, or remodellings, or when a business leaves an establishment vacant for a prolonged period. The ultimate objective is to avoid unauthorized access, prevent theft, and protect property against damage.

Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?

The need for commercial boarding up typically occurs for numerous factors:

  1. Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, tornadoes, and extreme storms can trigger substantial damage to buildings through high winds and flying debris. Boarding up can minimize potential damage to windows and doors.

  2. Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured facilities are vulnerable to break-ins and vandalism. Boarding up can hinder Professional Board Up Service and protect valuable stock and equipment.

  3. Building and Renovations: During refurbishment, it may be needed to restrict access to specific locations, making sure safety and security.

  4. Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied buildings can end up being targets for squatting or breaking and getting in. Boarding up offers protection till the property can be secured or repurposed.

Approaches of Commercial Boarding Up

There are several techniques to board up a commercial property effectively. These can vary based upon the size and structure of the building, the level of security required, and the duration for which the boards must stay in location.

Common Boarding Materials

Product

Features

Finest Used For

Plywood

Strong and readily available

Short-term boarding, high danger

OSB (Oriented Strand Board)

Cost-effective, good strength

Short to medium-term boarding

Metal Sheets

Incredibly durable, fireproof

High-security needs, long-term

Lexan or Polycarbonate

Lightweight, impact-resistant

High-security glass replacement

Installation Techniques

  1. Screw and Anchor: Secure the boards to the window or door frames utilizing screws that permeate deeply into the wall for stability.

  2. Brackets: Use brackets to reinforce the boards, particularly for larger openings.

  3. Secure with Bolts: In high-risk areas, bolts can be used for included security, making sure that boards can not be easily removed.

  4. Frame Construction: For extended direct exposure, building a frame to hold the boards rather of attaching directly to the structure can be useful.

Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up

While a lot of boarding up practices are planned to be temporary, there are cases where irreversible or semi-permanent solutions may be essential. It is vital to examine the specific needs of the property and function of the boarding up.

Finest Practices for Boarding Up

To guarantee the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, specific best practices need to be followed:

  1. Assess vulnerabilities: Identify all points of entry and assess the weaknesses that might be made use of throughout a crisis.

  2. Use the ideal products: Choose the suitable boarding products based upon the level of risk and duration of boarding up.

  3. Professional installation: For larger or heavily impacted residential or commercial properties, engaging professional services can guarantee remarkable security and compliance with local policies.

  4. Maintain secure access points: Even while boarding up, ensure that you have secure access points for emergency services, if required.

  5. Regular assessments: Periodically inspect the boarding to ensure it stays secure and intact, especially after storms or high winds.

Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Boarding Up

What is the ideal density for plywood boarding?

A density of a minimum of ½ inch is recommended for plywood boarding up to guarantee it can endure high winds and impact.

How can I get rid of boards after setup?

Normally, unscrewing the boards or eliminating bolts must enable simple removal. However, it is important to have the appropriate tools on hand.

Can I board up my business myself?

Yes, many companies choose to board up themselves; however, it is often advised to work with professionals for bigger properties or in high-risk situations.

How long can boards keep up?

The time boards can remain in location depends upon different factors, consisting of local regulations, the security needed, and physical conditions impacting the property.

How do I protect my business from prospective vandalism when it is closed?

In addition to boarding up, consider installing security cameras, lighting, and alarm to enhance the total security of your property when closed.

Commercial boarding up is a strategic method to securing services from different potential risks, including natural catastrophes and criminal activity. By understanding various techniques, materials, and finest practices, business owners can improve the security of their properties, mitigate damage, and ensure the security of their possessions. While the procedure might appear uncomplicated, proactively taking part in comprehensive preparation and consultation may yield the very best lead to safeguarding a business's most important investments.