Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In business world, security is critical. Whether handling a store, office building, or storage facility, protecting physical properties is vital, specifically in times of crisis. One major preventive measure companies can take is boarding up their premises. This post checks out the principle of commercial boarding up, including its benefits, 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 residential or commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is often used throughout emergency situations such as natural disasters, vandalism, or renovations, or when a business leaves a facility vacant for an extended duration. The ultimate objective is to avoid unapproved access, deter theft, and safeguard property against damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The need for commercial boarding up often arises for numerous reasons:

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

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured facilities are vulnerable to burglaries and vandalism. Boarding up can discourage criminal activity and protect valuable stock and equipment.

Building and construction and Renovations: During refurbishment, it may be required to limit access to specific areas, ensuring safety and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied structures can become targets for squatting or breaking and going into. Boarding up offers protection until the property can be protected or repurposed.
Approaches of Commercial Boarding Up
There are several techniques to board up a commercial property successfully. These can differ based upon the size and structure of the building, the level of security needed, and the duration for which the boards must stay in location.
Typical Boarding MaterialsMaterialFeaturesFinest Used ForPlywoodStrong and readily offeredShort-term boarding, high riskOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthShort to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsVery durable, fireproofHigh-security requirements, long-lastingLexan or PolycarbonateLight-weight, impact-resistantHigh-security glass replacementInstallation 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 strengthen the boards, particularly for bigger openings.

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

Frame Construction: For prolonged direct exposure, building a frame to hold the boards instead of connecting straight 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 may be essential. It is important to examine the individual requirements of the property and function of the boarding up.
Finest Practices for Boarding Up
To guarantee the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, certain best practices must be followed:

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

Use the ideal materials: Choose the appropriate boarding materials based upon the level of hazard and period of boarding up.

Professional setup: For bigger or heavily impacted homes, engaging professional services can ensure exceptional security and compliance with local policies.

Maintain secure access points: Even while boarding up, ensure that you have secure access points for emergency services, if necessary.

Routine examinations: Periodically check the boarding to ensure it remains secure and intact, especially after storms or high winds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the perfect thickness for plywood boarding?
A thickness of a minimum of 1/2 inch is suggested for plywood boarding up to guarantee it can hold up against high winds and effect.
How can I eliminate boards after setup?
Normally, unscrewing the boards or removing bolts need to permit easy removal. However, it is vital to have the appropriate tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, many businesses choose to board up themselves