Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In the business world, security is vital. Whether handling a store, office building, or storage facility, protecting physical properties is essential, especially in times of crisis. One significant preventive procedure services can take is boarding up their premises. This post explores the concept of commercial boarding up, including its advantages, approaches, and best practices for application.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up refers to the process of temporarily securing windows and doors of commercial homes by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is often used during emergency situations such as natural disasters, vandalism, or renovations, or when a business leaves an establishment unoccupied for an extended period. The ultimate objective is to prevent unauthorized gain access to, discourage theft, and safeguard property versus 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 severe storms can trigger significant damage to buildings through high winds and flying particles. Boarding up can reduce prospective damage to doors and windows.

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured facilities are susceptible to break-ins and vandalism. Boarding up can hinder criminal activity and secure important inventory and devices.

Construction and Renovations: During repair, it may be necessary to restrict access to particular areas, making sure security and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied buildings can become targets for squatting or breaking and getting in. Boarding up offers protection until the property can be protected or repurposed.
Techniques of Commercial Boarding Up
There are several techniques to board up a commercial property effectively. These can differ based on the size and structure of the building, the level of security needed, and the duration for which the boards must stay in location.
Typical Boarding MaterialsMaterialFunctionsFinest Used ForPlywoodStrong and readily offeredShort-term boarding, high riskOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthShort to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsVery long lasting, fireproofHigh-security requirements, long-lastingLexan or PolycarbonateLightweight, impact-resistantHigh-security glass replacementInstallation Techniques
Screw and Anchor: Secure the boards to the window or door frames utilizing screws that permeate deeply into the wall for stability.

Brackets: Use brackets to reinforce the boards, especially for bigger openings.

Secure with Bolts: In high-risk locations, bolts can be utilized for added security, guaranteeing that boards can not be quickly removed.

Frame Construction: For prolonged direct exposure, building a frame to hold the boards instead of connecting directly to the structure can be helpful.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While the majority of boarding up practices are planned to be temporary, there are cases where long-term or semi-permanent solutions may be necessary. It is necessary to examine the private needs of the property and function of the boarding up.
Best Practices for Boarding Up
To ensure the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, certain best practices must be followed:

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

Make use of the right materials: Choose the proper boarding products based upon the level of danger and duration of boarding up.

Professional installation: For bigger or heavily affected homes, engaging professional services can ensure superior security and compliance with local guidelines.

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

Regular inspections: Periodically check the boarding to guarantee it stays secure and intact, especially after storms or high winds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the perfect density for plywood boarding?
A density of at least 1/2 inch is advised for plywood boarding up to ensure it can endure high winds and effect.
How can I get rid of boards after installation?
Generally, unscrewing the boards or getting rid of bolts should enable simple removal. However, it is crucial to have the appropriate tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, many services choose to board up themselves