Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In business world, security is vital. Whether handling a store, office building, or warehouse, safeguarding physical possessions is vital, especially in times of crisis. One major preventive measure organizations can take is boarding up their facilities. This post explores the concept of commercial boarding up, including its advantages, methods, and best practices for implementation.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up describes the process of temporarily securing windows and doors of commercial residential or commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is often used during emergency situations such as natural disasters, vandalism, or remodellings, or when a business leaves a facility unoccupied for a prolonged duration. The ultimate aim is to avoid unauthorized gain access to, deter theft, and secure property against damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The requirement for commercial boarding up often arises for numerous factors:

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

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured properties are susceptible to burglaries and vandalism. Boarding up can discourage criminal activity and protect important inventory and devices.

Construction and Renovations: During refurbishment, it might be needed to limit access to particular locations, guaranteeing security and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied buildings can become targets for crouching or breaking and getting in. Boarding up deals protection up until the property can be protected or repurposed.
Techniques of Commercial Boarding Up
There are several methods to board up a commercial property effectively. These can vary 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 location.
Typical Boarding MaterialsMaterialFunctionsFinest Used ForPlywoodStrong and easily availableShort-term boarding, high riskOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthBrief to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsExtremely durable, fireproofHigh-security needs, long-termLexan or PolycarbonateLightweight, impact-resistantHigh-security glass replacementInstallation 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 reinforce the boards, particularly for larger openings.

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

Frame Construction: For prolonged direct exposure, building a frame to hold the boards instead of attaching directly to the structure can be helpful.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While many boarding up practices are meant to be temporary, there are cases where permanent or semi-permanent solutions may be essential. It is necessary to examine the individual requirements of the property and purpose of the boarding up.
Best Practices for Boarding Up
To ensure the efficiency of commercial boarding up, particular finest practices need to be followed:

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

Make use of the right products: Choose the appropriate boarding products based on the level of danger and period of boarding up.

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

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

Routine assessments: Periodically examine the boarding to ensure it remains secure and intact, specifically 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 suggested for plywood boarding up to ensure it can stand up to high winds and impact.
How can I eliminate boards after installation?
Generally, loosening the boards or getting rid of bolts must permit easy elimination. However, it is essential to have the appropriate tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, numerous services opt to board up themselves