Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In the business world, security is vital. Whether dealing with a store, office complex, or storage facility, protecting physical possessions is vital, particularly in times of crisis. One major preventive step businesses can take is boarding up their properties. This short article explores the principle of commercial boarding up, including its benefits, techniques, and best practices for execution.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up refers to the procedure of momentarily protecting doors and windows of commercial homes by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is frequently used throughout emergencies such as natural disasters, vandalism, or restorations, or when a business leaves an establishment unoccupied for a prolonged duration. The ultimate goal is to prevent unauthorized gain access to, prevent theft, and safeguard property versus damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The requirement for commercial boarding up typically develops for several reasons:
- Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, tornadoes, and serious storms can trigger substantial damage to buildings through high winds and flying debris. Boarding up can lessen possible damage to windows and doors.
- Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured facilities are vulnerable to break-ins and vandalism. Boarding up can prevent criminal activity and safeguard important inventory and devices.
- Building and construction and Renovations: During refurbishment, it may be essential to limit access to certain areas, guaranteeing security and security.
- Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied buildings can become targets for squatting or breaking and going into. Boarding up offers Emergency Break-In Repair until the property can be secured or repurposed.
Techniques of Commercial Boarding Up
There are several methods 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 remain in location.
Common Boarding Materials
| Product | Features | Best Used For |
|---|---|---|
| Plywood | Strong and easily offered | Short-term boarding, high threat |
| OSB (Oriented Strand Board) | Cost-effective, good strength | Brief to medium-term boarding |
| Metal Sheets | Incredibly durable, fire-resistant | High-security requirements, long-term |
| Lexan or Polycarbonate | Lightweight, impact-resistant | High-security glass replacement |
Setup 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 reinforce the boards, particularly for larger openings.
- Secure with Bolts: In high-risk areas, bolts can be utilized for added security, making sure that boards can not be quickly removed.
- Frame Construction: For extended exposure, building a frame to hold the boards rather of attaching straight to the structure can be useful.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While the majority of boarding up practices are planned to be temporary, there are cases where permanent or semi-permanent solutions might be essential. It is vital to evaluate the specific requirements of the property and purpose of the boarding up.
Best Practices for Boarding Up
To make sure the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, particular best practices should be followed:
- Assess vulnerabilities: Identify all points of entry and assess the weak points that may be exploited throughout a crisis.
- Utilize the ideal materials: Choose the suitable boarding products based upon the level of risk and duration of boarding up.
- Professional setup: For larger or heavily impacted homes, engaging professional services can guarantee exceptional security and compliance with local policies.
- Preserve secure access points: Even while boarding up, guarantee that you have secure gain access to points for emergency services, if essential.
- Regular assessments: Periodically examine the boarding to guarantee it remains secure and undamaged, particularly after storms or high winds.
FAQs About Commercial Boarding Up
What is the ideal thickness for plywood boarding?
A density of a minimum of 1/2 inch is recommended for plywood boarding up to ensure it can withstand high winds and effect.
How can I eliminate boards after installation?
Typically, unscrewing the boards or getting rid of bolts must enable easy removal. However, it is crucial to have the correct tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, lots of companies opt to board up themselves; nevertheless, it is typically suggested to employ specialists for larger residential or commercial properties or in high-risk scenarios.
How long can boards stay up?
The time boards can stay in location depends on numerous factors, consisting of local ordinances, the security needed, and physical conditions impacting the property.
How do I secure my business from possible vandalism when it is closed?
In addition to boarding up, think about installing security cameras, lighting, and alarm to improve the overall security of your property when closed.
Commercial boarding up is a tactical approach to protecting organizations from numerous potential threats, including natural catastrophes and criminal activity. By understanding numerous approaches, products, and finest practices, business owners can boost the security of their properties, mitigate damage, and ensure the safety of their assets. While the process may appear simple, proactively taking part in thorough planning and consultation might yield the finest lead to securing a business's most important financial investments.
