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Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide
In the business world, security is vital. Whether handling a store, office building, or warehouse, protecting physical properties is essential, especially in times of crisis. One significant preventive measure businesses can take is boarding up their premises. This short article explores the concept of commercial boarding up, including its benefits, methods, and best practices for execution.
What is Commercial Boarding Up?
Commercial boarding up describes the process of temporarily securing windows and doors of commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is typically used during emergency situations such as natural catastrophes, vandalism, or restorations, or when a business leaves a facility vacant for an extended period. The supreme objective is to avoid unauthorized gain access to, prevent theft, and protect property against damage.
Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?
The need for commercial boarding up often arises for a number of factors:

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

Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured properties are vulnerable to break-ins and vandalism. Boarding up can deter criminal activity and secure valuable inventory and equipment.

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

Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied buildings can end up being targets for squatting or breaking and going into. Boarding up offers protection until the property can be secured or repurposed.
Approaches of Commercial Boarding Up
There are a number of methods to board up a commercial property efficiently. These can differ based upon the size and structure of the building, the level of security required, and the duration for which the boards need to remain in place.
Typical Boarding MaterialsMaterialFunctionsBest Used ForPlywoodStrong and easily offeredShort-term boarding, high threatOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, good strengthBrief to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsVery resilient, fire-resistantHigh-security needs, long-lastingLexan or PolycarbonateLightweight, 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 reinforce the boards, particularly for larger openings.

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

Frame Construction: For prolonged direct exposure, building a frame to hold the boards instead of connecting directly to the structure can be advantageous.
Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up
While most boarding up practices are planned to be temporary, there are cases where long-term or semi-permanent solutions might be necessary. It is important to evaluate the private needs of the property and purpose of the boarding up.
Finest Practices for Boarding Up
To make sure the effectiveness of commercial boarding up, specific finest practices need to be followed:

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

Make use of the ideal products: Choose the appropriate boarding products based on the level of hazard and duration of boarding up.

Professional installation: For bigger or heavily affected homes, engaging professional services can guarantee exceptional security and compliance with local regulations.

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

Routine inspections: Periodically examine the boarding to ensure it remains secure and intact, particularly after storms or high winds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Boarding UpWhat is the ideal density for plywood boarding?
A thickness of a minimum of 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, loosening the boards or removing bolts ought to permit easy removal. However, it is essential to have the appropriate tools on hand.
Can I board up my business myself?
Yes, numerous companies decide to board up themselves; however, it is frequently recommended to employ specialists for bigger homes or in high-risk situations.
The length of time can boards remain up?
The time boards can remain in location depends upon various elements, including local ordinances, the security required, and physical conditions impacting the property.
How do I safeguard my business from prospective vandalism when it is closed?
In addition to boarding up, consider setting up security video cameras, lighting, and alarm to enhance the overall security of your property when closed.

Commercial boarding up is a tactical method to securing businesses from different potential risks, consisting of natural catastrophes and criminal activity. By understanding numerous methods, materials, and best practices, business owners can improve the security of their properties, alleviate damage, and make sure the security of their properties. While the process may seem uncomplicated, proactively participating in extensive preparation and assessment might yield the best lead to securing a business's most vital financial investments.