Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In business world, security is critical. Whether handling a retailer, office building, or warehouse, securing physical assets is crucial, particularly in times of crisis. One major preventive step companies can take is boarding up their facilities. This article explores the concept of commercial boarding up, including its benefits, approaches, and best practices for application.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up refers to the process of temporarily protecting windows and doors of commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is often made use of throughout emergencies such as natural catastrophes, vandalism, or renovations, or when a business leaves a facility empty for an extended period. The supreme objective is to prevent unauthorized access, deter theft, and protect property versus damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The need for commercial boarding up often emerges for numerous reasons:

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

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured premises are susceptible to burglaries and vandalism. Boarding up can discourage criminal activity and protect important stock and equipment.

Construction and Renovations: During repair, it may be required to limit access to particular locations, making sure security and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied structures can become targets for squatting or breaking and going into. Boarding up offers protection till the property can be protected or repurposed.
Methods of Commercial Boarding Up
There are numerous methods to board up a commercial property efficiently. These can vary based on the size and structure of the building, the level of security needed, and the period for which the boards should remain in location.
Typical Boarding MaterialsProductFunctionsBest Used ForPlywoodStrong and easily offeredShort-term boarding, high threatOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthShort to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsExceptionally resilient, fire-resistantHigh-security needs, long-termLexan or PolycarbonateLight-weight, impact-resistantHigh-security glass replacementSetup 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 strengthen the boards, especially for bigger openings.

Secure with Bolts: In high-risk areas, bolts can be utilized for included security, ensuring that boards can not be quickly removed.

Frame Construction: For extended direct exposure, constructing a frame to hold the boards rather of connecting directly to the structure can be advantageous.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While most boarding up practices are planned to be temporary, there are cases where irreversible or semi-permanent solutions might be required. It is necessary to evaluate the specific needs of the property and purpose of the boarding up.
Best Practices for Boarding Up
To make sure the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, certain best practices must be followed:

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

Make use of the best products: Choose the suitable boarding materials based upon the level of threat and duration of boarding up.

Professional setup: For larger or greatly affected residential or commercial properties, engaging professional services can guarantee superior security and compliance with local regulations.

Maintain secure access points: Even while boarding up, make sure that you have secure access points for emergency services, if needed.

Routine assessments: Periodically inspect the boarding to guarantee it stays secure and undamaged, especially after storms or high winds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the perfect thickness for plywood boarding?
A thickness of a minimum of 1/2 inch is advised for plywood boarding up to guarantee it can hold up against high winds and effect.
How can I remove boards after installation?
Usually, unscrewing the boards or removing bolts should permit easy removal. However, it is essential to have the appropriate tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, lots of services opt to board up themselves