Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In the business world, security is vital. Whether dealing with a retailer, office building, or warehouse, safeguarding physical possessions is essential, especially in times of crisis. One significant preventive measure businesses can take is boarding up their premises. This post explores the principle of commercial boarding up, including its benefits, approaches, and best practices for execution.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up describes the process of momentarily protecting doors and windows of commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is often made use of during emergency situations such as natural disasters, vandalism, or restorations, or when a business leaves an establishment empty for a prolonged duration. The ultimate goal is to avoid unapproved gain access to, hinder theft, and protect property against damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The need for commercial boarding up typically arises for a number of factors:

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

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured premises are vulnerable to break-ins and vandalism. Boarding up can hinder criminal activity and safeguard valuable stock and equipment.

Construction and Renovations: During repair, it might be needed to limit access to specific areas, guaranteeing safety and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied structures can become targets for squatting or breaking and getting in. Boarding up deals protection till the property can be secured or repurposed.
Methods of Commercial Boarding Up
There are numerous approaches to board up a commercial property effectively. These can vary based upon the size and structure of the building, the level of security needed, and the duration for which the boards should stay in place.
Common Boarding MaterialsMaterialFunctionsBest Used ForPlywoodStrong and readily offeredShort-term boarding, high threatOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthBrief to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsIncredibly long lasting, fire-resistantHigh-security requirements, long-termLexan or PolycarbonateLight-weight, impact-resistantHigh-security glass replacementSetup 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 larger openings.

Secure with Bolts: In high-risk areas, bolts can be used for added security, making sure that boards can not be quickly gotten rid of.

Frame Construction: For prolonged direct exposure, building a frame to hold the boards instead of connecting straight to the structure can be helpful.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While most boarding up practices are planned to be temporary, there are cases where permanent or semi-permanent solutions might be necessary. It is vital to assess the specific requirements of the property and purpose of the boarding up.
Best Practices for Boarding Up
To make sure the efficiency of commercial boarding up, particular best practices need to be followed:

Assess vulnerabilities: Identify all points of entry and evaluate the weak points that may be exploited during a crisis.

Make use of the right products: Choose the appropriate boarding materials based on the level of risk and duration of boarding up.

Professional installation: For larger or heavily impacted residential or commercial properties, engaging professional services can ensure exceptional security and compliance with local regulations.

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

Routine evaluations: Periodically check the boarding to guarantee it stays secure and intact, especially after storms or high winds.
FAQs About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the perfect thickness for plywood boarding?
A density of a minimum of 1/2 inch is advised for plywood boarding up to ensure it can endure high winds and impact.
How can I get rid of boards after setup?
Generally, loosening the boards or removing bolts ought to allow for easy elimination. However, it is important to have the proper tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, lots of organizations opt to board up themselves