Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide

In business world, security is paramount. Whether handling a retailer, workplace building, or warehouse, securing physical possessions is essential, particularly in times of crisis. One significant preventive procedure organizations can take is boarding up their properties. This post explores the concept of commercial boarding up, including its advantages, approaches, and finest practices for application.

What is Commercial Boarding Up?

Commercial boarding up refers to the procedure of briefly protecting windows and doors of commercial residential or commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is often used during emergencies such as natural catastrophes, vandalism, or renovations, or when a business leaves an establishment vacant for a prolonged duration. The ultimate aim is to prevent unapproved access, discourage theft, and protect property against damage.

Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?

The need for commercial boarding up typically arises for several reasons:

1. Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe storms can cause substantial damage to buildings through high winds and flying debris. Boarding up can lessen prospective damage to doors and windows.

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

3. Building and Renovations: During refurbishment, it may be necessary to restrict access to particular areas, ensuring safety and security.

4. 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.

Methods of Commercial Boarding Up

There are several methods to board up a commercial property efficiently. These can differ based on the size and structure of the building, the level of security required, and the duration for which the boards should remain in place.

Typical Boarding Materials

Setup Techniques

1. Screw and Anchor: Secure the boards to the window or door frames utilizing screws that penetrate deeply into the wall for stability.

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

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

   

4. Frame Construction: For extended exposure, building a frame to hold the boards instead of attaching directly to the structure can be helpful.

Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up

While many boarding up practices are intended to be temporary, there are cases where long-term or semi-permanent solutions may be needed. It is essential to assess the individual requirements 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 must be followed:

1. Assess vulnerabilities: Identify all points of entry and evaluate the weaknesses that may be made use of throughout a crisis.

2. Utilize the ideal products: Choose the proper boarding materials based on the level of threat and period of boarding up.

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

4. Keep secure access points: Even while boarding up, make sure that you have secure access points for emergency services, if required.

5. Regular inspections: Periodically examine the boarding to ensure it remains secure and undamaged, particularly after storms or high winds.

FAQs About Commercial Boarding Up

What is the perfect density for plywood boarding?

A density of at least 1/2 inch is suggested for plywood boarding up to ensure it can stand up to high winds and impact.

How can I get rid of boards after setup?

Usually, unscrewing the boards or getting rid of bolts should enable easy elimination. However, it is crucial to have the correct tools on hand.

Can I board up my business myself?

Yes, lots of companies opt to board up themselves; nevertheless, it is often recommended to hire professionals for larger residential or commercial properties or in high-risk circumstances.

The length of time can boards remain up?

The time boards can remain in location depends on different aspects, consisting of local ordinances, the security required, and physical conditions affecting the property.

How do I protect my business from possible vandalism when it is closed?

In addition to boarding up, think about installing security electronic cameras, lighting, and alarm to boost the overall security of your property when closed.

Commercial boarding up is a tactical method to protecting companies from numerous prospective threats, consisting of natural disasters and criminal activity. By comprehending various approaches, products, and finest practices, entrepreneur can boost the security of their properties, alleviate damage, and guarantee the security of their properties. While the procedure may seem straightforward, proactively taking part in thorough planning and assessment might yield the finest lead to protecting a business's most essential investments.