Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In business world, security is vital. Whether handling a store, office complex, or storage facility, protecting physical assets is essential, especially in times of crisis. One significant preventive procedure businesses can take is boarding up their properties. This post explores the concept of commercial boarding up, including its benefits, approaches, and best practices for application.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up refers to the process of momentarily protecting windows and doors of commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is typically used during emergency situations such as natural catastrophes, vandalism, or remodellings, or when a business leaves an establishment vacant for a prolonged duration. The ultimate objective is to avoid unauthorized access, deter theft, and safeguard property against damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The need for commercial boarding up typically develops for a number of factors:

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

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured facilities are vulnerable to burglaries and vandalism. Boarding up can discourage criminal activity and protect valuable stock and devices.

Building and construction and Renovations: During refurbishment, it may be needed to restrict access to specific locations, guaranteeing safety and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied structures can end up being targets for crouching or breaking and entering. Boarding up deals protection up until the property can be secured or repurposed.
Approaches of Commercial Boarding Up
There are a number of 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 must stay in place.
Typical Boarding MaterialsProductFunctionsBest Used ForPlywoodStrong and readily availableShort-term boarding, high dangerOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthBrief to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsVery durable, fireproofHigh-security requirements, long-termLexan or PolycarbonateLightweight, impact-resistantHigh-security glass replacementSetup 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 utilized for added security, ensuring that boards can not be quickly gotten rid of.

Frame Construction: For prolonged direct exposure, building a frame to hold the boards rather of attaching straight to the structure can be advantageous.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While a lot of boarding up practices are meant to be temporary, there are cases where permanent or semi-permanent solutions may be essential. It is necessary to assess the specific requirements of the property and purpose of the boarding up.
Finest Practices for Boarding Up
To ensure the efficiency of commercial boarding up, particular best practices ought to be followed:

Assess vulnerabilities: Identify all points of entry and evaluate the weak points that might be made use of during a crisis.

Make use of the best products: Choose the appropriate boarding products based on the level of danger and period of boarding up.

Professional installation: For larger or greatly impacted homes, engaging professional services can ensure superior security and compliance with local policies.

Keep secure access points: Even while boarding up, make sure that you have secure gain access to points for emergency services, if needed.

Routine inspections: Periodically examine the boarding to ensure it stays secure and undamaged, specifically after storms or high winds.
FAQs About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the perfect thickness for plywood boarding?
A density of a minimum of 1/2 inch is suggested for plywood boarding up to guarantee it can endure high winds and effect.
How can I remove boards after installation?
Normally, unscrewing the boards or removing bolts need to enable for simple removal. However, it is vital to have the proper tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, numerous services opt to board up themselves