Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In the business world, security is paramount. Whether handling a retail shop, office building, or warehouse, safeguarding physical possessions is vital, particularly in times of crisis. One significant preventive step organizations can take is boarding up their premises. This post explores the idea of commercial boarding up, including its advantages, techniques, and finest practices for execution.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up describes the procedure of temporarily securing doors and windows of commercial residential or commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is typically used throughout emergencies such as natural catastrophes, vandalism, or restorations, or when a business leaves a facility vacant for a prolonged duration. The ultimate aim is to prevent unauthorized gain access to, prevent theft, and secure property versus damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The need for commercial boarding up often emerges for several factors:

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

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured properties are vulnerable to break-ins and vandalism. Boarding up can hinder criminal activity and secure important stock and equipment.

Construction and Renovations: During repair, it may be needed to limit access to specific areas, ensuring safety and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied structures can become targets for crouching or breaking and entering. Boarding up offers protection up until the property can be protected or repurposed.
Techniques of Commercial Boarding Up
There are several methods to board up a commercial property efficiently. These can vary based on the size and structure of the building, the level of security needed, and the period for which the boards should remain in place.
Typical Boarding MaterialsMaterialFeaturesBest Used ForPlywoodStrong and readily offeredShort-term boarding, high threatOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthBrief to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsIncredibly resilient, fire-resistantHigh-security requirements, long-termLexan or PolycarbonateLight-weight, impact-resistantHigh-security glass replacementSetup Techniques
Screw and Anchor: Secure the boards to the window or door frames utilizing screws that permeate deeply into the wall for stability.

Brackets: Use brackets to reinforce the boards, especially for bigger openings.

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

Frame Construction: For prolonged direct exposure, building a frame to hold the boards instead of attaching directly to the structure can be helpful.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While most boarding up practices are meant to be temporary, there are cases where permanent or semi-permanent solutions may be essential. It is vital to examine the specific requirements of the property and function of the boarding up.
Finest Practices for Boarding Up
To guarantee the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, specific best practices must be followed:

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

Utilize the right materials: Choose the suitable boarding products based on the level of threat and period of boarding up.

Professional installation: For bigger or greatly impacted properties, engaging professional services can ensure superior security and compliance with local guidelines.

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

Routine examinations: Periodically inspect the boarding to guarantee it stays secure and intact, specifically after storms or high winds.
FAQs About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the ideal density for plywood boarding?
A thickness of at least 1/2 inch is suggested for plywood boarding up to guarantee it can withstand high winds and impact.
How can I remove boards after installation?
Usually, loosening the boards or getting rid of bolts ought to enable for easy removal. However, it is vital to have the appropriate tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, lots of services decide to board up themselves