How Boarding Up Can Be Your Next Big Obsession
The Importance of Boarding Up
Boarding up is a standard emergency response method that protects the property that has been damaged. It stops theft, restricts the amount of foot traffic at the fire scene and minimizes the damage caused by smoke to carpeting and upholstery.
Plywood or steel can be used to board up windows. Steel is more expensive, however it lasts longer and offers more security.
Security
After an natural disaster or another property damage, it could be easy to forget that securing your building is as important as repairing and fixing. The act of boarding up your structure can protect it from further vandalism or damage. It can also deter squatters or criminals who are looking for an opportunity.
A building that is boarded up will prevent further damage from flying debris or water, as well as providing the safety of children and pets. In addition, boarding up can protect vacant buildings from the threat of burglary and vandalism. In order to effectively protect your vacant property, you have to implement a security strategy that combines traditional physical protection with the latest technology and expert services.
When you're boarding up a building it is crucial to cover all entryways. Start with windows and doors but think about other entry points that might not be obvious but could be used by criminals.
The proper materials are an essential element of a security plan for vacant buildings. Plywood can warp over time and then pull away from fixtures. Steel is more expensive material, but it can last indefinitely and offers far more security than plywood.
It is recommended to choose security screens made of steel that can be fitted externally to windows above the ground floor. They are much easier to install than Sitex security screens and won't require the removal of the window, which could cause damage to the frame or glass. Security screens made of compression have been designed to provide a fast-deployment boarding solution that is as secure as Perforated Steel screens and is less likely to cause damage to the frames or windows.
Effective physical security is based on the concept of defense in depth, which entails creating multiple layers of security controls that are intended to both hinder those who can be deterred and delay those who aren't. In the final analysis, no security measure can be 100 100% effective against an adversary who is well-equipped and determined. However, combining a reliable board up security strategy with monitoring and surveillance technologies will significantly increase the likelihood of your vacant property being unoccupied.
Waterproofing
If a structure is damaged by a natural disaster, fire or other event, windows, doors, and walls can be left open to the elements. By boarding up the area, you can avoid further damage, and also offers security from trespassers and vandals while the property is being repaired and reoccupied.
A good boarding-up company will include waterproofing as a part of the overall package. Waterproofing stops unwanted moisture from leaking into the structure and causing mold or rot. It also reduces the risk of structural damage and saves on costly maintenance costs. Waterproofing is a good investment that can increase the value of your home or commercial space.
While the idea of securing buildings with boards is important, it should be noted that it's not a complete security solution. Effective security is based on a principle known as defence in depth. It is therefore a matter of adding layers, not removing them. A secure boarding-up can deter criminals as they attempt to gain access via other routes.
In addition to the obvious openings like doors and windows, a full survey should be conducted and include other possible access points, such as a fire escape ladder or access point near the flat roof. These are difficult to block, and are often overlooked or neglected by people who are squatters.
After the boarding up process is completed, it's vital to perform a final check to ensure that there are no dangers and that the panels are securely secured. This will enable easy removal if required.
Boarding up a building will help in reducing the amount of insurance claims. Many insurers will pay out claims if the insured has taken proactive steps to safeguard their property from further damage before it occurs. This is especially important if the damage has been caused by weather or other issues. In these cases it is crucial to ensure that the building has been secured in the earliest time possible to limit any further damage and to avoid the need for costly repair work.
Damage Prevention
After a natural catastrophe homeowners must take extra precautions to protect their building from further damage. The idea of boarding up doors and windows that have been damaged is a good solution. Whether it's because of the weather or a fire, this is often necessary to prevent further damage, theft or even squatters entering the building while waiting for repairs to be completed.
The board up of a structure is accomplished using OSB or plywood that is cut to the proper size and secured by nails. Basic carpentry skills are required to complete this. It is best to leave this job to professionals who have the right tools and know-how to put up a safe building. Professionals also know which type of plywood is most for the climate of the area where the building is located and can even add carriage screws for security. They will also make sure that there are no safety risks like protruding nails, or screws that could cause injury to anyone who enters the building in the future.
In addition to the obvious security benefits, boarding your home or business can help save you money in the long run. If you're a business owner, this is particularly important. If, for example, a window breaks in the midst of a hurricane your customers are less likely to return. A damaged window can make your store appear unattractive, and lead to theft.
Your insurance policy could pay for boarding. Nearly every property policy includes a clause that covers the expense of emergency services, which includes securing properties after they've been damaged by flooding, wind or other calamities. Not boarding up your property promptly after the damage could give the insurance company grounds to deny your claim, or at the very least, hold you responsible for any additional/secondary damages caused by negligence.
In addition to securing your home from further damage, board up can also keep it safe from squatters and animals. Squatters target vacant homes because they are easy to break into, and can cause thousands in damages in a short period of. A boarding will not only prevent them from breaking into your house but also helps to protect the items you've rescued from an incident with fire. This includes furniture, drapes and other items that could otherwise be destroyed by ash or soot residues from the fire.
Insurance
The homeowner's insurance policies typically cover the cost of repairing and reconstructing structures and possessions damaged by covered perils. However, some contain provisions for emergency mitigation, like the boarding of windows. Specifics can vary. boarding up company certified disaster restoration contractor can help navigate the process and ensure that you get adequate coverage.
Boarding up a property offers many benefits for the owner, such as protection from further damage, theft and external elements. The process is also a deterrent against vandalism and unwanted trespassers which can further damage the property. In addition, it can reduce the chance of a fire, which could cause further damage to the structure.
During the boarding-up process trained technicians will inspect the property to ensure that all holes are sealed with plywood or other material. This will limit the potential exposure of the property. They will then seal the property to prevent damage from water and wind and also look for safety hazards like protruding nails or screws. Once the boarding has been completed, the team will remove any debris or other items to ensure the security of the area.
When the board-up process is complete the property owner can relax knowing that their property is protected until it is repaired or replaced. In some cases the property owner might be in a position to retain their insurance coverage as any further damage will likely be considered negligence.
The best way to protect your commercial or residential property is to employ a professional boarding-up service. These companies are specialized and will evaluate the damage and secure open areas with boards and offer peace-of-mind for property owners in an uncertain moment. They can also collaborate with your insurance company to ensure that you receive the coverage that you are entitled to.
It's important to act quickly to safeguard your property if your building has been damaged by a fire, storm or other event. A reputable boarding company can offer security, protection from future damage, and peace of mind for your office or home. To find out more about a board-up service and to schedule an appointment, contact them.