Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In business world, security is vital. Whether dealing with a retailer, office complex, or storage facility, securing physical properties is crucial, specifically 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 benefits, approaches, and best practices for implementation.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up describes the process of momentarily securing doors and windows of commercial homes by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is typically used throughout emergency situations such as natural disasters, vandalism, or renovations, or when a business leaves a facility unoccupied for an extended duration. The supreme aim is to avoid unapproved gain access to, prevent theft, and protect property versus damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The need for commercial boarding up frequently emerges for a number of factors:

Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, twisters, and extreme storms can cause considerable damage to structures through high winds and flying debris. Boarding up can decrease potential damage to windows and doors.

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

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

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied buildings can become targets for squatting or breaking and getting in. 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 vary based upon the size and structure of the building, the level of security needed, and the period for which the boards need to remain in location.
Typical Boarding MaterialsProductFeaturesBest Used ForPlywoodStrong and readily offeredShort-term boarding, high threatOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthBrief to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsExceptionally long lasting, fire-resistantHigh-security requirements, long-lastingLexan or PolycarbonateLightweight, impact-resistantHigh-security glass replacementSetup 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 reinforce the boards, particularly for bigger openings.

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

Frame Construction: For prolonged direct exposure, building a frame to hold the boards rather of connecting directly to the structure can be helpful.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While the majority of boarding up practices are intended to be temporary, there are cases where long-term or semi-permanent solutions may be essential. It is necessary to examine the private requirements of the property and purpose of the boarding up.
Finest Practices for Boarding Up
To ensure the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, particular best practices must be followed:

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

Utilize the ideal products: Choose the suitable boarding products based on the level of hazard and duration of boarding up.

Professional setup: For larger or greatly impacted homes, engaging professional services can ensure remarkable security and compliance with local regulations.

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

Regular inspections: Periodically check the boarding to ensure it remains secure and intact, specifically after storms or high winds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the ideal density for plywood boarding?
A density of a minimum of 1/2 inch is recommended for plywood boarding up to ensure it can hold up against high winds and impact.
How can I get rid of boards after setup?
Normally, loosening the boards or removing bolts should allow for simple removal. Nevertheless, it is important to have the proper tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, lots of services choose to board up themselves