Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In business world, security is paramount. Whether dealing with a retailer, office building, or warehouse, securing physical properties is important, especially in times of crisis. One major preventive measure companies can take is boarding up their properties. This article explores the principle of commercial boarding up, including its benefits, approaches, and finest practices for application.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up describes the procedure of temporarily securing doors and windows of commercial homes by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is typically used during emergency situations such as natural disasters, vandalism, or renovations, or when a business leaves an establishment unoccupied for a prolonged duration. The supreme aim is to prevent unauthorized access, prevent theft, and secure property versus damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The need for commercial boarding up often emerges for several factors:

Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, twisters, and serious storms can trigger significant damage to buildings through high winds and flying debris. Boarding up can minimize prospective damage to doors and windows.

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured properties are vulnerable to burglaries and vandalism. Boarding up can hinder criminal activity and safeguard valuable stock and equipment.

Building and Renovations: During refurbishment, it may be required to restrict access to particular locations, making sure security and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied buildings can end up being targets for squatting or breaking and getting in. Boarding up deals protection up until the property can be secured or repurposed.
Methods of Commercial Boarding Up
There are numerous methods to board up a commercial property successfully. These can vary based on the size and structure of the building, the level of security needed, and the period for which the boards need to stay in place.
Typical Boarding MaterialsMaterialFeaturesBest Used ForPlywoodStrong and readily offeredShort-term boarding, high dangerOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, decent strengthBrief to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsVery resilient, fireproofHigh-security requirements, long-lastingLexan or PolycarbonateLight-weight, impact-resistantHigh-security glass replacementInstallation Techniques
Screw and Anchor: Secure the boards to the window or door frames utilizing screws that penetrate deeply into the wall for stability.

Brackets: Use brackets to strengthen the boards, particularly for bigger openings.

Secure with Bolts: In high-risk locations, bolts can be used for included security, making sure that boards can not be quickly eliminated.

Frame Construction: For extended exposure, constructing a frame to hold the boards instead of attaching straight to the structure can be beneficial.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While many boarding up practices are planned to be temporary, there are cases where long-term or semi-permanent solutions might be necessary. It is important to examine the individual needs of the property and purpose of the boarding up.
Finest Practices for Boarding Up
To ensure the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, particular best practices must be followed:

Assess vulnerabilities: Identify all points of entry and assess the weak points that may be made use of throughout a crisis.

Utilize the ideal materials: Choose the suitable boarding products based upon the level of risk and period of boarding up.

Professional installation: For larger or greatly affected residential or commercial properties, engaging professional services can ensure superior security and compliance with local regulations.

Maintain secure gain access to points: Even while boarding up, ensure that you have secure gain access to points for emergency services, if necessary.

Routine examinations: Periodically examine the boarding to guarantee it remains secure and undamaged, particularly after storms or high winds.
FAQs About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the perfect density for plywood boarding?
A thickness of a minimum of ½ inch is advised for plywood boarding up to ensure it can withstand high winds and impact.
How can I get rid of boards after installation?
Generally, loosening the boards or getting rid of bolts need to allow for easy removal. However, it is crucial to have the correct tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, lots of businesses choose to board up themselves