Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In business world, security is paramount. Whether dealing with a retailer, workplace building, or warehouse, safeguarding physical assets is crucial, particularly in times of crisis. One significant preventive procedure organizations can take is boarding up their premises. This post checks out the concept of commercial boarding up, including its benefits, approaches, and finest practices for application.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up describes the procedure of briefly protecting windows and doors of commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is often utilized during emergencies such as natural catastrophes, vandalism, or restorations, or when a business leaves a facility empty for a prolonged period. The supreme goal is to avoid unapproved gain access to, hinder theft, and secure property versus damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The requirement for commercial boarding up typically emerges for several reasons:

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

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured properties are susceptible to burglaries and vandalism. Boarding up can deter criminal activity and protect valuable inventory and equipment.

Building and Renovations: During refurbishment, it might be required to restrict access to certain areas, making sure safety and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied buildings can become targets for squatting or breaking and going into. Boarding up offers protection until the property can be secured or repurposed.
Methods of Commercial Boarding Up
There are numerous techniques to board up a commercial property successfully. These can differ based upon the size and structure of the building, the level of security needed, and the duration for which the boards need to remain in location.
Common Boarding MaterialsProductFunctionsBest Used ForPlywoodStrong and easily availableShort-term boarding, high riskOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthShort to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsExtremely 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 using screws that penetrate deeply into the wall for stability.

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

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

Frame Construction: For prolonged direct exposure, constructing a frame to hold the boards instead of attaching directly to the structure can be beneficial.
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 vital to examine the private requirements of the property and purpose of the boarding up.
Finest Practices for Boarding Up
To guarantee the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, certain finest practices need to be followed:

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

Use the best materials: Choose the appropriate boarding products based upon the level of danger and duration of boarding up.

Professional setup: For bigger or heavily affected residential or commercial properties, engaging professional services can guarantee remarkable security and compliance with local policies.

Maintain secure access points: Even while boarding up, make sure that you have secure access points for emergency services, if essential.

Routine examinations: Periodically examine the boarding to ensure it stays secure and intact, particularly after storms or high winds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the perfect thickness for plywood boarding?
A density of at least 1/2 inch is recommended for plywood boarding up to ensure it can stand up to high winds and impact.
How can I remove boards after installation?
Normally, loosening the boards or getting rid of bolts should permit for simple removal. Nevertheless, it is important to have the proper tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, lots of companies choose to board up themselves