Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In business world, security is vital. Whether dealing with a retailer, office building, or warehouse, safeguarding physical possessions is essential, especially in times of crisis. One significant preventive measure organizations can take is boarding up their premises. This article checks out the concept of commercial boarding up, including its advantages, techniques, and finest practices for execution.
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 typically utilized during emergencies such as natural catastrophes, vandalism, or restorations, or when a business leaves a facility vacant for an extended duration. The ultimate aim is to avoid unauthorized gain access to, deter theft, and safeguard property against damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The requirement for commercial boarding up typically emerges for a number of reasons:

Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe storms can cause substantial 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 susceptible to break-ins and vandalism. Boarding up can hinder criminal activity and protect important inventory and devices.

Construction and Renovations: During refurbishment, it may be needed to restrict access to certain areas, ensuring safety and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied structures can end up being targets for crouching or breaking and entering. Boarding up offers protection up until the property can be protected or repurposed.
Approaches of Commercial Boarding Up
There are several techniques to board up a commercial property effectively. These can differ based on the size and structure of the building, the level of security required, and the duration for which the boards must remain in place.
Common Boarding MaterialsMaterialFunctionsBest Used ForPlywoodStrong and easily offeredShort-term boarding, high riskOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthBrief to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsVery durable, fire-resistantHigh-security requirements, long-termLexan or PolycarbonateLightweight, 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 enhance the boards, particularly for larger openings.

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

Frame Construction: For extended exposure, building a frame to hold the boards rather of attaching directly to the structure can be advantageous.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While many boarding up practices are planned to be temporary, there are cases where long-term or semi-permanent solutions might be needed. It is necessary to assess the individual requirements of the property and function of the boarding up.
Best Practices for Boarding Up
To ensure the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, specific best practices ought to be followed:

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

Utilize the ideal materials: Choose the appropriate boarding products based on the level of threat and duration of boarding up.

Professional installation: For larger or greatly affected properties, engaging professional services can ensure superior security and compliance with local policies.

Maintain secure access points: Even while boarding up, guarantee that you have secure gain access to points for emergency services, if essential.

Regular evaluations: Periodically check the boarding to ensure it remains secure and intact, specifically after storms or high winds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the ideal density for plywood boarding?
A density of at least ½ inch is suggested for plywood boarding up to guarantee it can hold up against high winds and impact.
How can I eliminate boards after installation?
Typically, loosening the boards or eliminating bolts should enable easy elimination. However, it is essential to have the correct tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, lots of companies decide to board up themselves