Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In business world, security is critical. Whether handling a retailer, office complex, or warehouse, safeguarding physical properties is vital, specifically in times of crisis. One significant preventive measure companies can take is boarding up their facilities. This article explores the principle of commercial boarding up, including its benefits, approaches, and finest practices for implementation.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up describes the procedure of momentarily securing doors and windows of commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is typically made use of during emergencies such as natural catastrophes, vandalism, or restorations, or when a business leaves an establishment unoccupied for an extended duration. The ultimate aim is to avoid unapproved gain access to, discourage theft, and protect property versus damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The requirement for commercial boarding up often arises for a number of factors:

Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, twisters, and serious storms can cause significant damage to structures through high winds and flying particles. Boarding up can minimize possible damage to doors and windows.

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured facilities are susceptible to break-ins and vandalism. Boarding up can deter criminal activity and protect important stock and devices.

Construction and Renovations: During repair, it may be needed to restrict access to specific locations, ensuring safety and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied buildings can end up being targets for squatting or breaking and getting in. Boarding up deals protection until the property can be protected or repurposed.
Methods of Commercial Boarding Up
There are a number of techniques 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 stay in location.
Common Boarding MaterialsProductFunctionsFinest Used ForPlywoodStrong and easily availableShort-term boarding, high riskOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthBrief 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 permeate deeply into the wall for stability.

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

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

Frame Construction: For extended exposure, constructing 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 meant to be temporary, there are cases where long-term or semi-permanent solutions might be necessary. It is important to examine the specific requirements of the property and function of the boarding up.
Best Practices for Boarding Up
To make sure the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, specific best practices should be followed:

Assess vulnerabilities: Identify all points of entry and assess the weaknesses that might be made use of throughout a crisis.

Use the right materials: Choose the proper boarding materials based on the level of danger and period of boarding up.

Professional installation: For bigger or heavily impacted properties, engaging professional services can guarantee superior security and compliance with local regulations.

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

Routine inspections: Periodically inspect the boarding to ensure it stays secure and undamaged, particularly after storms or high winds.
FAQs About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the ideal thickness for plywood boarding?
A density of at least 1/2 inch is suggested for plywood boarding up to guarantee it can endure high winds and impact.
How can I get rid of boards after setup?
Usually, unscrewing the boards or getting rid of bolts need to enable simple removal. However, it is crucial to have the proper tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, many organizations choose to board up themselves