Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In business world, security is paramount. Whether dealing with a store, office building, or warehouse, securing physical assets is vital, specifically in times of crisis. One significant preventive step companies can take is boarding up their premises. This post explores the principle of commercial boarding up, including its advantages, methods, and finest practices for execution.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up describes the process of temporarily securing doors and windows of commercial homes by covering them with panels or boards. Window Protection is frequently used during emergency situations such as natural catastrophes, vandalism, or restorations, or when a business leaves a facility empty for a prolonged period. The ultimate goal is to prevent unauthorized access, discourage theft, and safeguard property versus damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The need for commercial boarding up typically arises for numerous reasons:
- Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, tornadoes, and serious storms can cause considerable damage to buildings through high winds and flying particles. Boarding up can minimize possible damage to doors and windows.
- Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured facilities are vulnerable to burglaries and vandalism. Boarding up can discourage criminal activity and secure important stock and equipment.
- Building and construction and Renovations: During refurbishment, it might be needed to limit access to specific areas, ensuring safety and security.
- Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied buildings can end up being targets for squatting or breaking and going into. Boarding up deals protection up until the property can be secured or repurposed.
Techniques of Commercial Boarding Up
There are several methods to board up a commercial property successfully. These can differ based on the size and structure of the building, the level of security needed, and the duration for which the boards need to stay in place.
Typical Boarding Materials
| Product | Features | Best Used For |
|---|---|---|
| Plywood | Strong and easily available | Short-term boarding, high risk |
| OSB (Oriented Strand Board) | Cost-effective, decent strength | Short to medium-term boarding |
| Metal Sheets | Incredibly long lasting, fire-resistant | High-security requirements, long-term |
| Lexan or Polycarbonate | Light-weight, impact-resistant | High-security glass replacement |
Installation 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 areas, bolts can be used for included security, making sure that boards can not be easily removed.
- Frame Construction: For prolonged direct exposure, building a frame to hold the boards instead of connecting directly to the structure can be beneficial.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While many boarding up practices are planned to be temporary, there are cases where permanent or semi-permanent solutions may be needed. It is vital to assess the individual needs of the property and purpose of the boarding up.
Finest Practices for Boarding Up
To ensure the efficiency of commercial boarding up, specific best practices need to be followed:
- Assess vulnerabilities: Identify all points of entry and evaluate the weaknesses that may be made use of throughout a crisis.
- Utilize the ideal materials: Choose the proper boarding materials based upon the level of danger and period of boarding up.
- Professional setup: For larger or greatly impacted residential or commercial properties, engaging professional services can ensure remarkable security and compliance with local guidelines.
- Preserve secure access points: Even while boarding up, make sure that you have secure gain access to points for emergency services, if essential.
- Regular evaluations: Periodically inspect the boarding to ensure it remains secure and undamaged, especially after storms or high winds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Boarding Up
What is the ideal density for plywood boarding?
A density of a minimum of 1/2 inch is recommended for plywood boarding up to guarantee it can withstand high winds and impact.
How can I remove boards after setup?
Usually, unscrewing the boards or removing bolts should enable simple removal. However, it is crucial to have the proper tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, numerous businesses choose to board up themselves; however, it is typically recommended to hire specialists for larger properties or in high-risk scenarios.
How long can boards stay up?
The time boards can stay in place depends on numerous aspects, including local regulations, the security needed, and physical conditions impacting the property.
How do I protect 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 method to protecting businesses from different possible threats, including natural disasters and criminal activity. By understanding various approaches, materials, and best practices, business owners can enhance the security of their homes, mitigate damage, and ensure the safety of their possessions. While the process may appear uncomplicated, proactively participating in thorough preparation and assessment might yield the finest outcomes in safeguarding a business's most important investments.
