Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In business world, security is paramount. Whether dealing with a retailer, workplace building, or storage facility, safeguarding physical properties is vital, especially in times of crisis. One significant preventive step businesses can take is boarding up their properties. This article explores the concept of commercial boarding up, including its benefits, approaches, and finest practices for implementation.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up describes the process of temporarily protecting windows and doors of commercial homes by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is typically utilized during emergency situations such as natural catastrophes, vandalism, or restorations, or when a business leaves a facility vacant for a prolonged period. The supreme aim is to prevent unapproved gain access to, deter theft, and safeguard property versus damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The need for commercial boarding up typically develops for several reasons:

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

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured premises are vulnerable to burglaries and vandalism. Boarding up can hinder criminal activity and secure valuable stock and devices.

Building and Renovations: During repair, it might be required to restrict access to specific locations, ensuring security and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied structures can become targets for crouching or breaking and entering. Boarding up deals protection till the property can be secured or repurposed.
Techniques of Commercial Boarding Up
There are a number of techniques to board up a commercial property efficiently. These can differ based upon the size and structure of the building, the level of security needed, and the duration for which the boards need to remain in place.
Common Boarding MaterialsProductFunctionsBest Used ForPlywoodStrong and readily availableShort-term boarding, high riskOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthShort to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsVery resilient, fireproofHigh-security needs, 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 penetrate deeply into the wall for stability.

Brackets: Use brackets to reinforce the boards, particularly for larger openings.

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

Frame Construction: For extended exposure, constructing a frame to hold the boards rather of connecting straight to the structure can be beneficial.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While most boarding up practices are meant to be temporary, there are cases where irreversible or semi-permanent solutions might be necessary. It is important to assess the specific requirements of the property and purpose of the boarding up.
Best Practices for Boarding Up
To ensure the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, specific finest practices should be followed:

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

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

Professional setup: For larger or greatly impacted properties, engaging professional services can guarantee remarkable security and compliance with local policies.

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

Routine assessments: Periodically examine the boarding to guarantee it remains secure and undamaged, especially after storms or high winds.
FAQs About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the ideal thickness for plywood boarding?
A thickness of a minimum of 1/2 inch is recommended for plywood boarding up to guarantee it can stand up to high winds and effect.
How can I eliminate boards after setup?
Normally, loosening the boards or getting rid of bolts must allow for simple removal. However, it is crucial to have the appropriate tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, lots of services opt to board up themselves