Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In the business world, security is vital. Whether dealing with a retail shop, office complex, or warehouse, safeguarding physical assets is important, especially in times of crisis. One major preventive measure organizations can take is boarding up their premises. This short article explores the concept of commercial boarding up, including its advantages, techniques, and best practices for execution.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up refers to the process of momentarily protecting 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 unoccupied for a prolonged duration. The ultimate objective is to avoid unapproved gain access to, prevent theft, and protect property versus damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The need for commercial boarding up typically arises for a number of factors:

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

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

Building and Renovations: During refurbishment, it may be needed to restrict access to certain areas, guaranteeing security and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied structures can become targets for squatting or breaking and going into. Boarding up offers protection up until the property can be secured or repurposed.
Techniques of Commercial Boarding Up
There are numerous methods to board up a commercial property effectively. These can vary based on the size and structure of the building, the level of security required, and the duration for which the boards should stay in location.
Typical Boarding MaterialsMaterialFunctionsFinest Used ForPlywoodStrong and easily offeredShort-term boarding, high riskOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthBrief to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsExtremely durable, 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 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 utilized for included security, guaranteeing that boards can not be quickly eliminated.

Frame Construction: For extended exposure, constructing a frame to hold the boards instead of attaching straight to the structure can be advantageous.
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 necessary. It is important to examine the individual needs of the property and function of the boarding up.
Best Practices for Boarding Up
To make sure the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, particular finest practices should be followed:

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

Utilize the right products: Choose the proper boarding materials based upon the level of risk and period of boarding up.

Professional setup: For larger or heavily impacted homes, engaging professional services can guarantee superior security and compliance with local regulations.

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

Regular assessments: Periodically inspect the boarding to ensure it stays secure and intact, particularly after storms or high winds.
FAQs About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the ideal thickness for plywood boarding?
A thickness of at least 1/2 inch is recommended for plywood boarding up to guarantee it can endure high winds and effect.
How can I eliminate boards after setup?
Typically, loosening the boards or removing bolts ought to enable for easy removal. Nevertheless, it is vital to have the proper tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, lots of services decide to board up themselves