Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In the business world, security is paramount. Whether handling a retail shop, office complex, or warehouse, safeguarding physical assets is important, specifically in times of crisis. One significant preventive measure organizations can take is boarding up their premises. This post explores the principle of commercial boarding up, including its benefits, techniques, and finest practices for implementation.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up describes the process of temporarily protecting windows and doors of commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is typically utilized during emergencies such as natural catastrophes, vandalism, or renovations, or when a business leaves a facility unoccupied for an extended duration. The supreme goal is to avoid unapproved access, hinder theft, and safeguard property against damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The need for commercial boarding up frequently develops for a number of reasons:

Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, tornadoes, and serious storms can trigger substantial damage to structures through high winds and flying debris. Boarding up can reduce potential damage to windows and doors.

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured facilities are vulnerable to burglaries and vandalism. Boarding up can hinder criminal activity and secure valuable inventory and equipment.

Construction and Renovations: During refurbishment, it might be needed to restrict access to certain areas, guaranteeing security and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied structures can become targets for crouching or breaking and entering. Boarding up deals protection up until the property can be secured or repurposed.
Techniques of Commercial Boarding Up
There are numerous techniques to board up a commercial property effectively. These can differ based upon the size and structure of the building, the level of security needed, and the period for which the boards should stay in place.
Typical Boarding MaterialsMaterialFunctionsFinest Used ForPlywoodStrong and easily offeredShort-term boarding, high dangerOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, decent strengthShort to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsIncredibly durable, fire-resistantHigh-security requirements, long-lastingLexan or PolycarbonateLight-weight, impact-resistantHigh-security glass replacementSetup Techniques
Screw and Anchor: Secure the boards to the window or door frames utilizing screws that penetrate deeply into the wall for stability.

Brackets: Use brackets to strengthen the boards, particularly for bigger openings.

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

Frame Construction: For extended direct exposure, constructing a frame to hold the boards instead of attaching straight to the structure can be beneficial.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While many boarding up practices are meant to be temporary, there are cases where irreversible or semi-permanent solutions might be required. It is vital to examine the private requirements of the property and purpose of the boarding up.
Best Practices for Boarding Up
To ensure the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, specific finest practices should be followed:

Assess vulnerabilities: Identify all points of entry and assess the weaknesses that might be exploited throughout a crisis.

Use the ideal products: Choose the appropriate boarding materials based on the level of hazard and duration of boarding up.

Professional installation: For larger or heavily affected homes, engaging professional services can guarantee remarkable security and compliance with local policies.

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

Routine inspections: Periodically examine the boarding to ensure it remains secure and intact, especially after storms or high winds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the perfect density for plywood boarding?
A thickness of at least 1/2 inch is advised for plywood boarding up to guarantee it can withstand high winds and effect.
How can I remove boards after installation?
Normally, loosening the boards or removing bolts must permit easy elimination. However, it is vital to have the correct tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, many businesses choose to board up themselves