Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In the business world, security is vital. Whether handling a retailer, office building, or warehouse, securing physical assets is crucial, particularly in times of crisis. One major preventive step companies can take is boarding up their properties. This article explores the idea of commercial boarding up, including its benefits, methods, and best practices for implementation.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up describes the process of briefly securing windows and doors of commercial residential or commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is often made use of during emergency situations such as natural catastrophes, vandalism, or remodellings, or when a business leaves a facility unoccupied for an extended duration. The supreme objective is to prevent unauthorized access, discourage theft, and protect property against damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The requirement for commercial boarding up typically occurs for several factors:

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

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured properties are vulnerable to burglaries and vandalism. Boarding up can prevent criminal activity and safeguard valuable inventory and equipment.

Building and construction and Renovations: During repair, it may be needed to limit access to particular areas, ensuring safety and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied buildings can become targets for crouching or breaking and getting in. Boarding up deals protection till the property can be secured or repurposed.
Techniques of Commercial Boarding Up
There are numerous techniques 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 need to stay in place.
Typical Boarding MaterialsProductFeaturesFinest Used ForPlywoodStrong and easily availableShort-term boarding, high riskOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthBrief to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsExceptionally resilient, fireproofHigh-security needs, long-lastingLexan or PolycarbonateLight-weight, 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 strengthen the boards, particularly for larger openings.

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

Frame Construction: For extended direct exposure, constructing a frame to hold the boards rather of connecting directly to the structure can be helpful.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While most boarding up practices are intended to be temporary, there are cases where permanent or semi-permanent solutions might be necessary. It is essential to evaluate the private requirements of the property and function of the boarding up.
Best Practices for Boarding Up
To make sure the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, specific finest practices should be followed:

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

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

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

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

Regular evaluations: Periodically inspect the boarding to ensure it stays secure and intact, particularly after storms or high winds.
FAQs About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the ideal thickness for plywood boarding?
A density of a minimum of 1/2 inch is recommended for plywood boarding up to ensure it can withstand high winds and effect.
How can I get rid of boards after setup?
Typically, unscrewing the boards or eliminating bolts ought to permit simple elimination. However, it is crucial to have the appropriate tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, lots of companies choose to board up themselves