Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In the business world, security is vital. Whether handling a retailer, office complex, or storage facility, securing physical possessions is crucial, particularly in times of crisis. One significant preventive measure businesses can take is boarding up their premises. This article explores the idea of commercial boarding up, including its benefits, methods, and best practices for execution.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up refers to the process of briefly protecting doors and windows of commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is frequently made use of throughout emergencies such as natural catastrophes, vandalism, or renovations, or when a business leaves an establishment vacant for a prolonged period. The ultimate objective is to avoid unauthorized 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 several reasons:

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

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

Building and Renovations: During repair, it may be required to limit access to certain locations, guaranteeing safety and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied structures can end up being targets for crouching or breaking and entering. Boarding up deals protection until the property can be secured or repurposed.
Techniques of Commercial Boarding Up
There are numerous methods to board up a commercial property successfully. These can differ based on the size and structure of the building, the level of security needed, and the duration for which the boards must remain in place.
Common Boarding MaterialsProductFeaturesBest Used ForPlywoodStrong and easily offeredShort-term boarding, high riskOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthShort to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsIncredibly durable, 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 permeate deeply into the wall for stability.

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

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

Frame Construction: For extended exposure, constructing a frame to hold the boards instead of connecting straight to the structure can be useful.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While a lot of boarding up practices are planned to be temporary, there are cases where permanent or semi-permanent solutions may be required. It is necessary to examine the private requirements of the property and function of the boarding up.
Finest Practices for Boarding Up
To make sure the efficiency of commercial boarding up, specific finest practices need to be followed:

Assess vulnerabilities: Identify all points of entry and examine the weaknesses that might be made use of during a crisis.

Utilize the ideal products: Choose the appropriate boarding products based upon the level of risk and duration of boarding up.

Professional setup: For larger or greatly affected properties, engaging professional services can ensure exceptional security and compliance with local guidelines.

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

Regular inspections: Periodically inspect the boarding to ensure it stays secure and intact, particularly after storms or high winds.
Frequently Asked Questions 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 stand up to high winds and effect.
How can I remove boards after setup?
Generally, unscrewing the boards or eliminating bolts ought to enable for simple elimination. However, it is important to have the proper tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, many services opt to board up themselves