GitLab

Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In business world, security is paramount. Whether handling a retail shop, office building, or storage facility, safeguarding physical properties is vital, especially in times of crisis. One significant preventive measure organizations can take is boarding up their facilities. This article explores the idea of commercial boarding up, including its advantages, techniques, and finest practices for application.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up refers to the process of momentarily protecting doors and windows of commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is often made use of throughout emergencies such as natural disasters, vandalism, or remodellings, or when a business leaves a facility unoccupied for a prolonged period. The supreme objective is to avoid unapproved gain access to, deter theft, and secure property versus damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The requirement for commercial boarding up often occurs for several factors:

Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, tornadoes, and extreme storms can cause significant damage to buildings through high winds and flying debris. Boarding up can minimize possible damage to doors and windows.

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

Construction and Renovations: During refurbishment, it might be necessary to limit access to certain areas, ensuring safety and security.

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied buildings can become targets for squatting or breaking and going into. Boarding up offers protection till the property can be secured or repurposed.
Techniques of Commercial Boarding Up
There are numerous methods to board up a commercial property efficiently. These can vary based upon the size and structure of the building, the level of security needed, and the duration for which the boards must remain in place.
Common Boarding MaterialsProductFunctionsBest Used ForPlywoodStrong and easily availableShort-term boarding, high riskOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, decent strengthBrief to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsExceptionally durable, fireproofHigh-security requirements, long-termLexan or PolycarbonateLightweight, 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, especially for larger openings.

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

Frame Construction: For prolonged direct exposure, constructing a frame to hold the boards instead of attaching directly to the structure can be useful.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While a lot of boarding up practices are meant to be temporary, there are cases where permanent or semi-permanent solutions may be needed. It is important to evaluate the specific requirements of the property and function of the boarding up.
Best Practices for Boarding Up
To ensure the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, specific finest 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.

Make use of the best products: Choose the appropriate boarding products based on the level of risk and period of boarding up.

Professional setup: For larger or greatly impacted properties, engaging professional services can guarantee remarkable security and compliance with local guidelines.

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

Regular inspections: Periodically inspect the boarding to guarantee it stays secure and undamaged, particularly after storms or high winds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the perfect density for plywood boarding?
A thickness of at least 1/2 inch is advised for plywood boarding up to ensure it can stand up to high winds and impact.
How can I eliminate boards after installation?
Typically, unscrewing the boards or removing bolts ought to enable simple elimination. Nevertheless, it is essential to have the appropriate tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, numerous services decide to board up themselves; nevertheless, it is typically suggested to hire professionals for bigger homes or in high-risk circumstances.
How long can boards remain up?
The time boards can remain in place depends on numerous elements, including local regulations, the security needed, and physical conditions affecting the property.
How do I secure my business from prospective vandalism when it is closed?
In addition to boarding up, consider setting up security electronic cameras, lighting, and alarm systems to enhance the overall security of your property when closed.

Commercial boarding up is a tactical technique to protecting services from various prospective risks, consisting of natural catastrophes and criminal activity. By comprehending various approaches, products, and best practices, business owners can enhance the security of their residential or commercial properties, mitigate damage, and guarantee the safety of their assets. While the process may appear simple, proactively engaging in extensive preparation and consultation may yield the very best results in safeguarding a business's most important financial investments.