Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In the business world, security is critical. Whether handling a retailer, office building, or warehouse, protecting physical assets is essential, especially in times of crisis. One significant preventive step companies can take is boarding up their facilities. This post explores the concept of commercial boarding up, including its benefits, methods, and best practices for application.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up refers to the procedure of temporarily securing doors and windows of commercial homes by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is often used throughout emergency situations such as natural disasters, vandalism, or renovations, or when a business leaves an establishment vacant for an extended period. The ultimate goal is to avoid unapproved access, discourage theft, and secure property against damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The requirement for commercial boarding up typically occurs for several factors:

Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, twisters, and extreme storms can trigger substantial damage to structures through high winds and flying debris. Boarding up can lessen potential damage to windows and doors.

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured properties are susceptible to burglaries and vandalism. Boarding up can prevent criminal activity and protect important inventory and devices.

Building and Renovations: During repair, it might be essential to limit access to particular areas, guaranteeing safety and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied structures can become targets for squatting or breaking and entering. Boarding up offers protection up until the property can be protected or repurposed.
Methods of Commercial Boarding Up
There are numerous methods to board up a commercial property successfully. These can vary based on the size and structure of the building, the level of security needed, and the duration for which the boards need to remain in place.
Common Boarding MaterialsMaterialFeaturesBest Used ForPlywoodStrong and readily offeredShort-term boarding, high riskOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthBrief to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsVery resilient, fire-resistantHigh-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 strengthen the boards, particularly for bigger openings.

Secure with Bolts: In high-risk locations, bolts can be utilized for included security, guaranteeing that boards can not be easily removed.

Frame Construction: For extended direct exposure, constructing a frame to hold the boards instead of connecting directly to the structure can be beneficial.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While a lot of boarding up practices are meant to be temporary, there are cases where irreversible or semi-permanent solutions may be needed. It is important to evaluate the individual needs of the property and purpose of the boarding up.
Best Practices for Boarding Up
To ensure the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, particular best practices need to be followed:

Assess vulnerabilities: Identify all points of entry and assess the weak points that may be made use of during a crisis.

Use the right materials: Choose the proper boarding materials based upon the level of hazard and duration of boarding up.

Professional installation: For larger or greatly affected properties, engaging professional services can ensure exceptional security and compliance with local policies.

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

Regular assessments: Periodically check the boarding to ensure it stays secure and intact, particularly after storms or high winds.
FAQs About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the perfect density for plywood boarding?
A density of a minimum of 1/2 inch is advised for plywood boarding up to guarantee it can withstand high winds and effect.
How can I eliminate boards after setup?
Generally, loosening the boards or getting rid of bolts ought to enable simple removal. Nevertheless, it is essential to have the correct tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, numerous businesses opt to board up themselves