Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In business world, security is critical. Whether handling a retail store, office building, or storage facility, securing physical assets is crucial, especially in times of crisis. One significant preventive step businesses can take is boarding up their properties. This article explores the concept of commercial boarding up, including its benefits, methods, and best practices for application.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up refers to the procedure of temporarily securing doors and windows of commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is typically utilized during emergency situations such as natural disasters, vandalism, or remodellings, or when a business leaves a facility empty for an extended period. The supreme aim is to avoid unauthorized gain access to, hinder theft, and secure property against damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The need for commercial boarding up frequently develops for numerous factors:

Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, twisters, and serious storms can cause significant damage to structures through high winds and flying debris. Boarding up can minimize potential damage to doors and windows.

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured facilities are susceptible to break-ins and vandalism. Boarding up can hinder criminal activity and secure important stock and devices.

Building and Renovations: During refurbishment, it might be necessary to restrict access to certain locations, guaranteeing safety and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied structures can become targets for crouching or breaking and getting in. Boarding up deals protection till the property can be protected or repurposed.
Techniques of Commercial Boarding Up
There are numerous approaches to board up a commercial property successfully. These can vary based upon the size and structure of the building, the level of security required, and the period for which the boards must stay in location.
Common Boarding MaterialsMaterialFeaturesFinest Used ForPlywoodStrong and readily offeredShort-term boarding, high riskOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, decent strengthBrief to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsExceptionally durable, fireproofHigh-security requirements, long-lastingLexan or PolycarbonateLightweight, impact-resistantHigh-security glass replacementInstallation 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 bigger openings.

Secure with Bolts: In high-risk locations, bolts can be utilized for added security, ensuring that boards can not be easily eliminated.

Frame Construction: For prolonged exposure, building a frame to hold the boards instead of attaching directly to the structure can be useful.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While a lot of boarding up practices are meant to be temporary, there are cases where irreversible or semi-permanent solutions may be required. It is vital to evaluate the individual needs of the property and function 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 may be exploited throughout a crisis.

Use the best products: Choose the suitable boarding materials based upon the level of danger and period of boarding up.

Professional setup: For larger or greatly impacted properties, engaging professional services can guarantee exceptional security and compliance with local regulations.

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

Regular examinations: Periodically inspect the boarding to guarantee it stays secure and undamaged, specifically 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 recommended for plywood boarding up to guarantee it can withstand high winds and impact.
How can I eliminate boards after installation?
Typically, unscrewing the boards or getting rid of bolts need to permit for easy elimination. Nevertheless, it is important to have the correct tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, numerous services opt to board up themselves