Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In the business world, security is vital. Whether dealing with a store, office building, or warehouse, securing physical assets is vital, particularly in times of crisis. One major preventive step businesses can take is boarding up their facilities. This article checks out the principle of commercial boarding up, including its benefits, techniques, and best practices for implementation.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up describes the process of briefly securing windows and doors of commercial homes by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is typically made use of throughout emergency situations such as natural disasters, vandalism, or renovations, or when a business leaves a facility unoccupied for a prolonged duration. The ultimate aim is to avoid unauthorized access, hinder theft, and protect property versus damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The need for commercial boarding up often arises for several factors:

Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, twisters, and extreme storms can cause significant damage to buildings through high winds and flying particles. Boarding up can lessen possible damage to windows and doors.

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

Construction and Renovations: During repair, it might be needed to limit access to particular areas, making sure safety and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied buildings can become targets for squatting or breaking and entering. Boarding up deals protection until the property can be protected or repurposed.
Methods of Commercial Boarding Up
There are a number of methods to board up a commercial property successfully. These can differ based on the size and structure of the building, the level of security required, and the duration for which the boards should stay in place.
Common Boarding MaterialsProductFunctionsFinest Used ForPlywoodStrong and readily offeredShort-term boarding, high threatOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, decent strengthShort to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsExtremely resilient, fireproofHigh-security requirements, long-termLexan or PolycarbonateLightweight, impact-resistantHigh-security glass replacementInstallation Techniques
Screw and Anchor: Secure the boards to the window or door frames using screws that penetrate deeply into the wall for stability.

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

Secure with Bolts: In high-risk areas, bolts can be used for added security, making sure that boards can not be easily removed.

Frame Construction: For extended exposure, constructing a frame to hold the boards instead of connecting directly 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 necessary. It is vital to examine the specific requirements of the property and function of the boarding up.
Finest Practices for Boarding Up
To ensure the efficiency of commercial boarding up, particular finest practices must be followed:

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

Make use of the right materials: Choose the proper boarding materials based on the level of risk and period of boarding up.

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

Preserve secure gain access to points: Even while boarding up, ensure that you have secure access points for emergency services, if essential.

Regular inspections: Periodically check the boarding to ensure it stays secure and intact, specifically after storms or high winds.
FAQs About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the ideal density for plywood boarding?
A thickness of a minimum of 1/2 inch is suggested for plywood boarding up to ensure it can withstand high winds and impact.
How can I eliminate boards after setup?
Usually, unscrewing the boards or removing bolts need to enable easy removal. However, it is crucial to have the correct tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, many services opt to board up themselves