Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In the business world, security is vital. Whether handling a retail store, office complex, or storage facility, safeguarding physical properties is essential, particularly in times of crisis. One significant preventive measure services can take is boarding up their facilities. This short article explores the idea of commercial boarding up, including its benefits, approaches, and finest practices for application.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up refers to the process of momentarily protecting doors and windows of commercial homes by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is often made use of throughout emergency situations such as natural catastrophes, vandalism, or restorations, or when a business leaves a facility vacant for an extended period. The ultimate objective is to prevent unapproved access, prevent theft, and safeguard property versus damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The requirement for commercial boarding up often develops for a number of reasons:

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

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured facilities are vulnerable to burglaries and vandalism. Boarding up can hinder criminal activity and safeguard important inventory and equipment.

Construction and Renovations: During refurbishment, it might be required to limit access to specific locations, making sure safety and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied structures can become targets for crouching or breaking and going into. Boarding up offers protection till the property can be protected or repurposed.
Approaches of Commercial Boarding Up
There are numerous methods to board up a commercial property successfully. These can vary based upon the size and structure of the building, the level of security required, and the duration for which the boards should remain in location.
Common Boarding MaterialsMaterialFeaturesBest Used ForPlywoodStrong and readily availableShort-term boarding, high riskOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthShort to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsVery long lasting, fireproofHigh-security requirements, long-termLexan 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 larger openings.

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

Frame Construction: For prolonged exposure, constructing a frame to hold the boards rather of attaching straight to the structure can be advantageous.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While a lot of boarding up practices are intended to be temporary, there are cases where irreversible or semi-permanent solutions may be essential. It is vital to evaluate the individual needs of the property and purpose of the boarding up.
Finest Practices for Boarding Up
To guarantee the efficiency of commercial boarding up, specific finest practices should be followed:

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

Use the right materials: Choose the suitable boarding materials based on the level of threat and duration of boarding up.

Professional setup: For larger or greatly affected homes, engaging professional services can ensure superior security and compliance with local regulations.

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

Regular inspections: Periodically check the boarding to guarantee it stays secure and undamaged, specifically after storms or high winds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the ideal thickness for plywood boarding?
A density of a minimum of 1/2 inch is advised for plywood boarding up to guarantee it can endure high winds and effect.
How can I remove boards after installation?
Usually, unscrewing the boards or removing bolts need to permit easy removal. However, it is crucial to have the proper tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, lots of companies choose to board up themselves