How To Outsmart Your Boss On Commercial Boarding Up

Commercial Boarding Up: A Comprehensive Guide

In the business world, security is vital. Whether dealing with a retailer, workplace building, or warehouse, securing physical properties is essential, specifically in times of crisis. One major preventive measure companies can take is boarding up their properties. This article explores the idea of commercial boarding up, including its advantages, methods, and best practices for application.

What is Commercial Boarding Up?

Commercial boarding up refers to the procedure of momentarily securing windows and doors of commercial residential or commercial properties by covering them with panels or boards. This practice is typically utilized throughout emergency situations such as natural catastrophes, vandalism, or restorations, or when a business leaves an establishment unoccupied for a prolonged period. The supreme goal is to avoid unapproved gain access to, deter theft, and safeguard property against damage.

Why is Commercial Boarding Up Necessary?

The requirement for commercial boarding up typically occurs for a number of reasons:

Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, twisters, and severe storms can trigger substantial damage to structures through high winds and flying debris. Boarding up can minimize Vandalism Prevention to windows and doors.
Vandalism and Theft: Unsecured premises are vulnerable to break-ins and vandalism. Boarding up can discourage criminal activity and safeguard important inventory and equipment.
Building and construction and Renovations: During refurbishment, it may be needed to limit access to certain areas, ensuring safety and security.
Long-Term Vacancies: Unoccupied buildings can become targets for squatting or breaking and entering. Boarding up offers protection till the property can be secured or repurposed.

Techniques of Commercial Boarding Up

There are several methods to board up a commercial property effectively. These can differ based on the size and structure of the building, the level of security needed, and the period for which the boards must stay in location.

Common Boarding Materials

ProductFeaturesFinest Used ForPlywoodStrong and easily availableShort-term boarding, high dangerOSB (Oriented Strand Board)Cost-effective, decent strengthShort to medium-term boardingMetal SheetsExtremely resilient, fireproofHigh-security needs, long-lastingLexan or PolycarbonateLight-weight, impact-resistantHigh-security glass replacement

Setup 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 utilized for included security, making sure that boards can not be quickly eliminated.
Frame Construction: For prolonged direct exposure, constructing a frame to hold the boards instead of attaching straight to the structure can be beneficial.

Temporary vs. Permanent Boarding Up

While most boarding up practices are meant to be temporary, there are cases where long-term or semi-permanent solutions might be necessary. It is necessary to evaluate the private requirements of the property and purpose of the boarding up.

Best Practices for Boarding Up

To make sure the efficiency of commercial boarding up, certain best practices must be followed:

Assess vulnerabilities: Identify all points of entry and evaluate the weak points that may be made use of throughout a crisis.
Use the ideal materials: Choose the proper boarding materials based upon the level of risk and period of boarding up.
Professional installation: For larger or heavily impacted properties, engaging professional services can guarantee exceptional security and compliance with local regulations.
Maintain secure gain access to points: Even while boarding up, ensure that you have secure gain access to points for emergency services, if needed.
Routine assessments: Periodically examine the boarding to ensure it stays secure and undamaged, especially after storms or high winds.

FAQs About Commercial Boarding Up

What is the perfect thickness for plywood boarding?

A density of a minimum of 1/2 inch is advised for plywood boarding up to ensure it can stand up to high winds and impact.

How can I get rid of boards after setup?

Typically, unscrewing the boards or getting rid of bolts should permit easy elimination. However, it is vital to have the appropriate tools on hand.

Can I board up my business myself?

Yes, many businesses decide to board up themselves; nevertheless, it is frequently suggested to hire professionals for bigger properties or in high-risk scenarios.

The length of time can boards stay up?

The time boards can stay in place depends upon various factors, consisting of local ordinances, the security required, and physical conditions affecting the property.

How do I protect my business from potential vandalism when it is closed?

In addition to boarding up, think about installing security video cameras, lighting, and alarm systems to enhance the total security of your property when closed.

Commercial boarding up is a strategic approach to protecting businesses from various prospective threats, including natural catastrophes and criminal activity. By understanding different approaches, materials, and finest practices, business owners can enhance the security of their homes, alleviate damage, and make sure the security of their possessions. While the procedure may seem straightforward, proactively participating in extensive preparation and assessment might yield the finest lead to protecting a business's most vital investments.