The 10 Scariest Things About Commercial Boarding Up

Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In business world, security is paramount. Whether dealing with a retailer, office complex, or storage facility, securing physical assets is important, especially in times of crisis. One significant preventive measure services can take is boarding up their premises. This article checks out the concept of commercial boarding up, including its advantages, techniques, and finest practices for implementation.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up refers to the process of temporarily protecting doors and windows of commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is often used during emergency situations such as natural disasters, vandalism, or restorations, or when a business leaves a facility empty for an extended duration. The ultimate aim is to prevent unauthorized gain access to, deter theft, and protect property against damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The need for commercial boarding up frequently develops for numerous factors:

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

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

Building and construction and Renovations: During refurbishment, it might be necessary to restrict access to specific locations, ensuring safety and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied buildings can become targets for squatting or breaking and entering. Boarding up deals protection up until the property can be protected or repurposed.
Methods of Commercial Boarding Up
There are several 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 period for which the boards must stay in location.
Common Boarding MaterialsProductFeaturesBest Used ForPlywoodStrong and easily offeredShort-term boarding, high riskOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, decent strengthShort to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsIncredibly resilient, fireproofHigh-security needs, long-termLexan or PolycarbonateLightweight, 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 enhance the boards, especially for larger openings.

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

Frame Construction: For extended exposure, constructing a frame to hold the boards instead of attaching directly to the structure can be useful.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While the majority of boarding up practices are meant to be temporary, there are cases where irreversible or semi-permanent solutions may be necessary. It is vital to examine the individual needs of the property and purpose of the boarding up.
Best Practices for Boarding Up
To ensure the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, particular finest practices should be followed:

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

Utilize the right products: Choose the proper boarding products based upon the level of risk and duration of boarding up.

Professional installation: For larger or greatly affected homes, engaging professional services can ensure superior security and compliance with local policies.

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

Regular evaluations: Periodically check the boarding to ensure it stays secure and undamaged, particularly after storms or high winds.
FAQs About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the perfect thickness for plywood boarding?
A density of at least 1/2 inch is suggested for plywood boarding up to ensure it can endure high winds and impact.
How can I eliminate boards after setup?
Typically, unscrewing the boards or eliminating bolts need to permit easy removal. However, it is important to have the correct tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, numerous services opt to board up themselves; nevertheless, it is often suggested to employ specialists for larger residential or commercial properties or in high-risk situations.
How long can boards remain up?
The time boards can stay in location depends upon different aspects, including local ordinances, the security required, and physical conditions impacting the property.
How do I secure my business from possible vandalism when it is closed?
In addition to boarding up, consider setting up security cameras, lighting, and alarm systems to improve the total security of your property when closed.

Commercial boarding up is a tactical method to protecting businesses from various possible threats, including natural disasters and criminal activity. By comprehending numerous techniques, products, and finest practices, business owners can improve the security of their properties, mitigate damage, and make sure the safety of their possessions. While the process might seem simple, proactively engaging in detailed preparation and assessment may yield the finest lead to safeguarding a business's most vital investments.