Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In business world, security is paramount. Whether handling a store, office complex, or warehouse, safeguarding physical properties is essential, especially in times of crisis. One significant preventive procedure companies can take is boarding up their facilities. This short article explores the concept of commercial boarding up, including its advantages, methods, and finest practices for execution.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up refers to the process of briefly securing windows and doors of commercial residential or commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is often utilized throughout emergencies such as natural disasters, vandalism, or restorations, or when a business leaves an establishment vacant for a prolonged period. The ultimate aim is to prevent unapproved access, deter theft, and safeguard property versus damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The requirement for commercial boarding up frequently occurs for several reasons:
- Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe storms can cause significant damage to buildings through high winds and flying debris. Boarding up can decrease prospective damage to doors and windows.
- Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured properties are vulnerable to burglaries and vandalism. Boarding up can deter view and secure valuable stock and equipment.
- Building and Renovations: During refurbishment, it might be necessary to limit access to particular areas, making sure safety and security.
- Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied structures can end up being targets for squatting or breaking and getting in. Boarding up offers protection till the property can be secured or repurposed.
Techniques of Commercial Boarding Up
There are numerous 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 duration for which the boards should remain in location.
Typical Boarding Materials
| Product | Features | Finest Used For |
|---|---|---|
| Plywood | Strong and readily offered | Short-term boarding, high danger |
| OSB (Oriented Strand Board) | Cost-effective, decent strength | Brief to medium-term boarding |
| Metal Sheets | Extremely durable, fire-resistant | High-security needs, long-lasting |
| Lexan or Polycarbonate | Light-weight, impact-resistant | High-security glass replacement |
Setup 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 enhance the boards, especially for bigger openings.
- Secure with Bolts: In high-risk areas, bolts can be utilized for added security, making sure that boards can not be easily gotten rid of.
- Frame Construction: For prolonged direct exposure, building a frame to hold the boards rather of connecting directly to the structure can be beneficial.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While a lot of boarding up practices are meant to be temporary, there are cases where long-term or semi-permanent solutions might be essential. It is necessary to evaluate the individual requirements of the property and function of the boarding up.
Finest Practices for Boarding Up
To make sure the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, specific finest practices ought to be followed:
- Assess vulnerabilities: Identify all points of entry and assess the weaknesses that might be exploited throughout a crisis.
- Use the right materials: Choose the proper boarding products based on the level of threat and duration of boarding up.
- Professional setup: For bigger or heavily impacted properties, engaging professional services can guarantee exceptional 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 needed.
- Regular assessments: Periodically check the boarding to ensure it stays secure and undamaged, especially after storms or high winds.
FAQs About Commercial Boarding Up
What is the ideal thickness for plywood boarding?
A density of at least 1/2 inch is recommended for plywood boarding up to guarantee it can hold up against high winds and effect.
How can I get rid of boards after installation?
Generally, loosening the boards or eliminating bolts need to permit easy removal. However, it is vital to have the proper tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, many businesses opt to board up themselves; nevertheless, it is typically recommended to work with specialists for larger properties or in high-risk situations.
The length of time can boards stay up?
The time boards can stay in location depends upon various factors, including local ordinances, the security needed, and physical conditions affecting the property.
How do I protect my business from possible vandalism when it is closed?
In addition to boarding up, consider setting up security cams, lighting, and alarm systems to boost the total security of your property when closed.
Commercial boarding up is a tactical approach to protecting businesses from various potential risks, including natural catastrophes and criminal activity. By understanding different methods, materials, and finest practices, company owner can boost the security of their homes, mitigate damage, and ensure the safety of their possessions. While the process may seem uncomplicated, proactively engaging in thorough preparation and consultation may yield the finest lead to protecting a business's most essential investments.
