Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In business world, security is paramount. Whether dealing with a store, workplace building, or storage facility, protecting physical assets is crucial, specifically in times of crisis. One major preventive step companies can take is boarding up their facilities. This article checks out the idea of commercial boarding up, including its advantages, approaches, and finest practices for application.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up refers to the process of momentarily securing doors and windows of commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is typically used during emergencies such as natural disasters, vandalism, or restorations, or when a business leaves a facility unoccupied for an extended duration. The ultimate aim is to prevent unapproved access, discourage theft, and protect property against damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The need for commercial boarding up typically develops for several reasons:

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

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured premises are vulnerable to burglaries and vandalism. Boarding up can hinder criminal activity and safeguard important inventory and equipment.

Construction and Renovations: During refurbishment, it may be needed to restrict access to particular areas, making sure safety and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied buildings can become targets for squatting or breaking and going into. Boarding up offers protection up until the property can be secured or repurposed.
Approaches of Commercial Boarding Up
There are several methods to board up a commercial property successfully. These can vary based upon the size and structure of the building, the level of security needed, and the duration for which the boards should remain in location.
Typical Boarding MaterialsMaterialFeaturesBest Used ForPlywoodStrong and readily availableShort-term boarding, high dangerOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthShort to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsExtremely resilient, fire-resistantHigh-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 areas, bolts can be utilized for added security, making sure that boards can not be quickly eliminated.

Frame Construction: For prolonged exposure, constructing a frame to hold the boards instead of attaching directly to the structure can be useful.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While many boarding up practices are intended to be temporary, there are cases where permanent or semi-permanent solutions might be essential. It is vital to assess the individual requirements of the property and function of the boarding up.
Best Practices for Boarding Up
To guarantee the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, particular best practices must 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 proper boarding materials based upon the level of risk and period of boarding up.

Professional installation: For larger or heavily impacted homes, engaging professional services can ensure remarkable security and compliance with local guidelines.

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

Routine evaluations: Periodically examine the boarding to guarantee it stays secure and intact, specifically after storms or high winds.
FAQs About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the ideal thickness for plywood boarding?
A density of a minimum of 1/2 inch is advised for plywood boarding up to ensure it can hold up against high winds and impact.
How can I get rid of boards after installation?
Usually, unscrewing the boards or removing bolts must permit simple removal. Nevertheless, it is important to have the proper tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, many services decide to board up themselves