Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In business world, security is vital. Whether dealing with a store, office complex, or storage facility, safeguarding physical assets is important, especially in times of crisis. One significant preventive measure companies can take is boarding up their facilities. This post explores the principle of commercial boarding up, including its advantages, methods, and best practices for application.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up describes the procedure of briefly securing doors and windows of commercial residential or commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is frequently made use of during emergencies such as natural catastrophes, vandalism, or restorations, or when a business leaves a facility vacant for a prolonged period. The ultimate objective is to avoid unauthorized gain access to, hinder theft, and safeguard property against damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The need for commercial boarding up often develops for several reasons:

Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe storms can trigger substantial damage to buildings through high winds and flying debris. Boarding up can decrease potential damage to windows and doors.

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured properties are susceptible to break-ins and vandalism. Boarding up can discourage criminal activity and protect important stock and equipment.

Building and construction and Renovations: During repair, it may be needed to limit access to specific locations, ensuring safety and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied structures can end up being targets for squatting or breaking and entering. Boarding up offers protection up until the property can be protected or repurposed.
Approaches of Commercial Boarding Up
There are several methods to board up a commercial property efficiently. 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 stay in place.
Typical Boarding MaterialsMaterialFunctionsBest Used ForPlywoodStrong and readily offeredShort-term boarding, high threatOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthBrief to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsVery long lasting, fire-resistantHigh-security requirements, long-termLexan or PolycarbonateLightweight, impact-resistantHigh-security glass replacementSetup Techniques
Screw and Anchor: Secure the boards to the window or door frames using screws that permeate deeply into the wall for stability.

Brackets: Use brackets to enhance the boards, especially for larger openings.

Secure with Bolts: In high-risk locations, bolts can be utilized for included security, guaranteeing that boards can not be quickly gotten rid of.

Frame Construction: For prolonged direct exposure, constructing a frame to hold the boards rather of connecting straight to the structure can be advantageous.
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 required. It is necessary to evaluate the private requirements of the property and purpose of the boarding up.
Best Practices for Boarding Up
To ensure the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, certain finest practices must be followed:

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

Utilize the ideal products: Choose the proper boarding materials based on the level of threat and period of boarding up.

Professional installation: For bigger or greatly affected residential or commercial properties, engaging professional services can guarantee superior security and compliance with local policies.

Maintain secure access points: Even while boarding up, make sure 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 intact, particularly after storms or high winds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the ideal 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 removing bolts need to permit for easy removal. However, it is vital to have the proper tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, many companies decide to board up themselves; nevertheless, it is typically recommended to hire professionals for larger homes or in high-risk circumstances.
How long can boards stay up?
The time boards can stay in location depends on different aspects, consisting of local ordinances, the security needed, and physical conditions impacting the property.
How do I safeguard my business from possible vandalism when it is closed?
In addition to boarding up, consider installing security cameras, lighting, and alarm systems to improve the overall security of your property when closed.

Commercial boarding up is a tactical technique to protecting companies from various potential dangers, including natural disasters and criminal activity. By comprehending various techniques, materials, and best practices, business owners can improve the security of their residential or commercial properties, alleviate damage, and ensure the safety of their properties. While the procedure may appear simple, proactively taking part in thorough preparation and consultation might yield the very best lead to protecting a business's most important investments.